If you love bold flavors, these Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are going to be your new favorite meal. The juicy, air-fried chicken is coated in a buttery, zesty sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of spice. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping appetizer, these skewers are packed with smoky, savory goodness.
Pair them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad to complete the meal. You can cook them in the air fryer for a crisp, juicy texture, or grill them for that classic BBQ char. However you prepare them, one thing’s for sure—they won’t last long on the plate!
Full Recipe:
- 8 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup cowboy butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine chicken cubes, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
- Thread 4-5 chicken cubes onto each skewer, leaving space between each piece.
- Place the skewers in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cook at 400°F for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the skewers from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Drizzle or brush the melted cowboy butter over the skewers and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with your favorite side dishes!
Alternative Cooking Methods:
- Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), place skewers on a lined baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Grill: Cook skewers over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 11 minutes | Total Time: 21 minutes
Kcal: 209 kcal | Servings: 8 skewers
Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers: A Flavorful and Easy Meal Option
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both bold in flavor and simple to prepare, look no further than Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers. These juicy, bite-sized chicken pieces are coated in a rich, buttery sauce infused with herbs and spices, then cooked to perfection on the grill, in the oven, or in an air fryer. The smoky, spicy, and garlicky cowboy butter elevates this dish beyond the usual chicken skewers, making it a perfect choice for casual dinners, summer barbecues, or meal prep.
What is Cowboy Butter?
Cowboy butter is a flavor-packed compound butter that has gained popularity due to its versatile use in grilling, dipping, and roasting. It’s a blend of melted butter, garlic, mustard, lemon juice, cayenne, and fresh herbs, creating a bold, zesty sauce that pairs perfectly with meats, seafood, and vegetables. When drizzled over freshly cooked chicken skewers, the melted cowboy butter seeps into every bite, making the chicken incredibly moist, flavorful, and slightly spicy.
Why These Chicken Skewers Stand Out
Unlike traditional grilled or baked chicken, this recipe takes things up a notch by incorporating a rich and flavorful sauce that transforms the dish into something special. Some key reasons why these skewers stand out include:
- Bold, buttery flavor – The cowboy butter brings a savory, garlicky, slightly spicy taste that enhances the natural juiciness of the chicken.
- Quick and easy to make – With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Multiple cooking options – Whether you prefer to cook in an air fryer, oven, or on a grill, this recipe adapts well to different methods.
- Perfect for meal prep – The chicken stays juicy and flavorful, making it a great option for make-ahead meals.
Cooking Methods: Air Fryer, Grill, or Oven?
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility in cooking methods. No matter what kitchen equipment you have, you can achieve tender, flavorful chicken skewers using one of these three techniques:
- Air Fryer: If you love crispy-yet-juicy chicken, using an air fryer is a fantastic option. Cooking at 400°F for about 11-12 minutes ensures that the chicken remains tender while developing a slightly crispy exterior.
- Grill: Nothing beats the smoky char of grilled chicken. By grilling these skewers over medium-high heat for about 8-10 minutes per side, you’ll get perfectly cooked chicken with a hint of smokiness that pairs beautifully with the cowboy butter.
- Oven: If you don’t have an air fryer or grill, baking the skewers at 400°F for 20-25 minutes is an easy alternative. This method is convenient and allows for even cooking, ensuring that the chicken is juicy and well-seasoned.
Best Side Dishes to Pair with Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
These flavor-packed skewers pair well with a variety of sides that complement the richness of the cowboy butter. Some top side dish recommendations include:
- Grilled Vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, and bell peppers provide a light and healthy contrast to the richness of the chicken.
- Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes (or a low-carb cauliflower alternative) soaks up the buttery sauce perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A crisp, tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the bold, savory flavors of the skewers.
- Corn on the Cob: A simple grilled or boiled corn cob adds sweetness and crunch, making it a great match for the smoky cowboy butter.
- Roasted Potato Salad: A warm, herby potato salad complements the spicy butter glaze, making the meal more filling and satisfying.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely, because these skewers are so good!), storing them properly ensures that you can enjoy them later. Here are the best ways to store and reheat them:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For easier storage, remove the chicken from the skewers before placing it in the container.
- Freezing: If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cooked chicken (without the skewers) for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm up the skewers in an air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes, in the oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, or on the stovetop in a skillet with a little extra cowboy butter.
Tips for Perfect Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
To get the most out of this delicious and easy recipe, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Cut chicken evenly: For even cooking, cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes so that each piece cooks at the same rate.
- Soak wooden skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking to prevent burning.
- Let the chicken rest: After cooking, let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
- Brush on extra cowboy butter: For an even richer, more flavorful experience, brush extra melted cowboy butter over the chicken just before serving.
Conclusion
Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are the ultimate combination of smoky, savory, and spicy flavors, making them a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking them on the grill, in the air fryer, or in the oven, these skewers are quick, easy, and packed with bold taste. The garlicky, herb-infused cowboy butter takes them to the next level, making each bite incredibly moist and flavorful.
Pair them with your favorite side dishes, store them for meal prep, and enjoy one of the easiest and tastiest chicken recipes you’ll ever make. If you haven’t tried cowboy butter yet, this recipe is the perfect introduction to a world of flavor. Give it a go, and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite chicken dish!