Cowboy Chicken Skewers

There’s something inherently satisfying about a perfectly grilled skewer each bite a balance of smoky, savory, and buttery goodness. Enter Cowboy Chicken Skewers, a recipe that brings bold flavor and effortless weeknight grilling together in a fun, approachable way. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a casual backyard barbecue, a family dinner, or a quick summer meal, these skewers hit all the right notes: tender, juicy chicken coated in rich cowboy butter, kissed with simple seasonings, and finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

If you love recipes that are easy to make yet deliver maximum flavor, these skewers are about to become your new go-to. Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with salads, roasted veggies, or even a hearty side of grilled corn. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and simple prep – From cutting the chicken to skewering, you’ll be ready to grill in under 15 minutes.
• Juicy, tender chicken – The combination of olive oil, salt, and cowboy butter ensures every bite is perfectly moist.
• Bold, buttery flavor – Cowboy butter elevates basic chicken cubes into something indulgent without being fussy.
• Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike love these skewers, and they’re easy to customize with veggies or dipping sauces.
• Grill-friendly and portable – Perfect for backyard BBQs, camping trips, or picnics.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you’ll need for this recipe, grouped by component:

Chicken Skewers

• 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

Skewers & Finishing

• 8 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
• ½ cup cowboy butter, melted
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Servings: 4 skewers (serves 2–4 depending on appetite)

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make these skewers perfectly, you’ll need:

• Grill or grill pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for butter
• Basting brush
• Knife and cutting board
• Tongs or heat-resistant spatula
• Serving platter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to create these Cowboy Chicken Skewers in all their golden, buttery glory.

Step 1: Prepare the Skewers

Start by soaking your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill. If you’re short on time, even a quick 15-minute soak helps.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Toss them in a large bowl with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated. This simple seasoning brings out the chicken’s natural flavor while complementing the cowboy butter later.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the chicken cubes onto the soaked skewers. Leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking. This prevents the chicken from steaming and helps it achieve that beautiful grilled sear.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). A properly heated grill ensures the chicken cooks quickly without drying out.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, turning occasionally to avoid flare-ups. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cubes are lightly charred on the edges.

Step 6: Baste with Cowboy Butter

During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken generously with melted cowboy butter. This adds richness and creates a slightly glossy, flavorful finish.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh touch. Serve immediately for best results.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetable addition: Alternate chicken with bell peppers, red onions, or zucchini for colorful veggie skewers.
• Spice it up: Add smoked paprika or chili powder to the chicken seasoning for extra heat.
• Marinate for extra flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and paprika for 30 minutes before skewering.
• Oven or broiler method: Can’t grill? Broil the skewers in the oven at 425°F for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

These Cowboy Chicken Skewers are:

• Savory & buttery – thanks to the cowboy butter coating
• Tender & juicy – from properly cooked chicken cubes
• Slightly smoky – if cooked on an open grill

Drink Pairings:

• White wine: Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
• Beer: Crisp lager or amber ale
• Non-alcoholic: Lemonade or iced tea

Side Suggestions:

• Grilled corn on the cob
• Garlic roasted potatoes
• Fresh garden salad
• Rice pilaf or quinoa

Nutritional Overview (Estimated per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	35 g
Carbohydrates	2 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	0 g

Dietary Notes:

• High-protein, low-carb option
• Gluten-free
• Dairy-free if using a dairy-free cowboy butter

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Skewers can be prepped ahead: Thread chicken onto skewers and store covered in the fridge for up to 12 hours.
• Butter: Melt cowboy butter just before grilling.
• Storage: Cooked skewers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for 2–3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Thighs stay juicier and have more flavor, but cook slightly faster than breasts.

Q: Can I make this in the oven?
A: Yes! Broil at 425°F for 10–12 minutes, turning once halfway through.

Q: Can I freeze the skewers?
A: Freeze uncooked skewers (chicken only) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

Q: What is cowboy butter?
A: Cowboy butter is a savory, herb-infused butter, often with garlic, paprika, and spices. It’s perfect for basting grilled meats.

Cooking Timeline (at a Glance)

Task	Prep Time	Cook Time	Total
Soak skewers	30 min	–	30 min
Prep chicken & assemble skewers	10 min	–	10 min
Grill skewers	–	8–10 min	8–10 min
Baste & garnish	2 min	–	2 min
Total	40 min	8–10 min	48–50 min

Serving Suggestions

• Serve family-style on a wooden platter for a rustic, cowboy-inspired vibe.
• Pair with dipping sauces like ranch, chimichurri, or spicy BBQ.
• For a casual lunchbox-friendly option, cut chicken off skewers and layer over greens or rice.

Recipe Variations

1. Southwestern Skewers: Add cumin, chili powder, and lime juice to the chicken before grilling.
2. BBQ Pineapple Chicken Skewers: Alternate chicken with pineapple chunks, and brush with BBQ sauce.
3. Mediterranean Style: Add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion, seasoning with oregano and lemon juice.

Ingredient Spotlight: Cowboy Butter

Cowboy butter is the hero of this recipe. Look for a pre-made version in grocery stores, or make your own by combining butter with garlic, paprika, herbs, and a touch of lemon juice. It’s versatile—perfect on chicken, steak, or roasted veggies.

Pro Tip: Keep leftover cowboy butter in an airtight container in the fridge. It solidifies but melts quickly on warm foods, making it a handy flavor booster.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Even Cooking: Cut chicken into uniform cubes to ensure every piece cooks evenly.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t pack skewers too tightly; air circulation is key for grilling.
• Rest Chicken: Let cooked chicken rest for 2–3 minutes before serving to retain juices.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Uncooked Skewers: Freeze in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw overnight.
• Cooked Skewers: Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 3 days. Reheat in a low oven or air fryer.
• Cowboy Butter: Store in fridge up to 2 weeks, or freeze in portions for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount	Notes
Calories	320 kcal	Mainly from chicken & butter
Protein	35 g	Excellent high-protein option
Carbs	2 g	Low-carb, gluten-free
Fat	18 g	Includes healthy fats from olive oil & butter
Fiber	0 g	Can add vegetables for more fiber

Conclusion

These Cowboy Chicken Skewers are a celebration of bold, simple flavors done right. They’re quick to prep, easy to grill, and impossible not to love. The buttery richness of the cowboy butter, paired with tender, juicy chicken and a hint of herbs, makes them ideal for weeknight dinners, summer barbecues, or any occasion where you want a crowd-pleasing, fuss-free dish.

Once you try these skewers, you’ll see why they’re a staple in any grill-lover’s repertoire. They’re customizable, flavorful, and satisfying a true testament to how a few quality ingredients, cooked with care, can create something extraordinary. So grab your skewers, fire up the grill, and get ready to serve up some cowboy-approved deliciousness!

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