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Ingredients for Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Step-by-Step Directions for Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and lemon juice. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
2. Prepare the Cowboy Butter Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chives, dill, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
3. Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
6. Baste with Cowboy Butter
During the last few minutes of grilling, generously brush the cowboy butter sauce over the chicken skewers. Allow the sauce to caramelize slightly on the grill for added flavor.
7. Serve
Remove the skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and extra cowboy butter sauce for dipping.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Grill (gas or charcoal)
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
- Meat thermometer (optional)
Tips for the Best Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least an hour, or even overnight, will deepen the flavors and tenderness.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Leave a little space between each piece of chicken to ensure even cooking and better grill marks.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to modify the cayenne pepper in the marinade and the hot sauce in the cowboy butter to suit your spice tolerance.
- Grill with Caution: Keep an eye on the skewers while grilling, as chicken can cook quickly over high heat.
Storing Leftovers
To store any leftovers, place the chicken skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the grill until warmed through. You can also remove the chicken from the skewers and add it to salads, wraps, or grain bowls for a quick meal.
Variations and Recipe Swaps
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with cubed tofu or vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a vegetarian version of these skewers.
- Different Proteins: Swap out the chicken for shrimp, beef, or pork, adjusting the cooking times as needed for each protein.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different fresh herbs in the cowboy butter, such as basil or cilantro, to create a unique flavor profile.
Suggested Pairings
These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Grilled Vegetables: Pair with a side of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob for a fresh and colorful plate.
- Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad, such as a Caesar or mixed greens, to balance the richness of the butter sauce.
- Rice or Quinoa: A serving of fluffy rice or quinoa can help soak up the delicious cowboy butter sauce.
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