These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are packed with flavor and are super easy to make. Marinated chicken pieces are grilled to perfection and brushed with a tasty buttery sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my favorite for this recipe; they’re juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a healthier option, boneless chicken breasts work well too. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as they can dry out faster.
Butter: Unsalted butter helps control seasoning. If you’re watching your fat intake, you can use olive oil instead, or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free option. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a great burst of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with garlic powder, using about 1/4 teaspoon per clove, but fresh is always best for that rich taste.
Mustard: I love the combination of Dijon and whole grain mustard. If you only have one type, feel free to use what you have. For a milder flavor, try yellow mustard. For a kick, spicy brown mustard works well too!
Spices: Smoked paprika and cumin bring warmth; however, you can use regular paprika if you don’t have smoked. Leave out the cayenne if you prefer less spice, or increase it if you like it hot!
How Do I Get Juicy Chicken Skewers?
The key to juicy chicken skewers is marinating. The marinade not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. To maximize this step, use a zip-top bag for marinating. It allows you to toss the chicken around and ensures every piece gets coated.
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Consider adding more lime juice for acidity, which helps tenderize the chicken.
- After mixing, add the chicken and seal the bag, squeezing out excess air. This way, the marinade gets into every nook and cranny.
- Marinate in the fridge for at least an hour, but 3 hours or even overnight gives the best flavor and texture!
Don’t forget to check the chicken while grilling! It should be firm and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Marinade:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For Garnish:
- Crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before using)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour to marinate (3-4 hours is best, or overnight for deeper flavor). After marinating, grilling will take about 15-20 minutes, so you can expect the total time to be around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), oregano, salt, and black pepper until everything is well combined and smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the lime juice and chopped parsley to the marinade and stir to mix. Then, add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until all the chicken is well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a ziplock bag. Place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour, but the longer the better—for 3-4 hours or even overnight if you can wait!
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaking in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, packing them closely together but not overcrowding them. This allows for even cooking and nice grill marks.
5. Grill the Chicken:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side. Turn them occasionally, ensuring that they are cooked through and have beautiful char marks. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Brush with Marinade:
While grilling, you can brush the skewers occasionally with any remaining marinade to add more flavor and help keep them moist.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese if you like. Serve your Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside some fresh veggies or warm bread.
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers! They’re perfect for impressing guests or enjoying on a cozy night in!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a great alternative, but keep an eye on the cooking time since they can dry out faster than thighs. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Ensure that the mustards you use are gluten-free and replace any other potential gluten-containing ingredients with their gluten-free counterparts. This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, focusing on fresh ingredients.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring not to overcook them and dry them out.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Skewers?
Definitely! Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes are excellent additions. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces as the chicken and toss them in the marinade too for a flavorful combination!
