Name: Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 8 skewers (wooden or metal)

Bold, buttery, and bursting with flavor, these Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are everything you need in a grilled meal. Imagine juicy chicken chunks soaked in a garlicky herb butter sauce, grilled to golden perfection, and finished with a fresh squeeze of lemon. They’re simple, vibrant, and wildly addictive.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving something smoky and satisfying, these skewers bring that fire-kissed flavor with a buttery kick. Perfect for summer nights or anytime you want dinner with a little western flair.

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers Recipe

These skewers combine the zesty punch of cowboy butter with the tenderness of grilled chicken, creating a dish that’s both rustic and elevated. The marinade works double duty by flavoring the meat and serving as a luscious basting sauce. They’re quick to assemble, crowd-pleasing, and low on cleanup.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe because they stay juicy even with high-heat grilling. However, chicken breasts can work well too if you prefer a leaner option—just be careful not to overcook. The marinade keeps things tender either way.

Ingredients for the Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers

To create the big flavor these skewers are known for, you’ll need a few pantry staples and fresh herbs. Each ingredient plays a role in building that rich cowboy butter flavor that sets this dish apart.

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Tender, flavorful, and perfect for absorbing all that buttery goodness.
Butter: The base of the cowboy butter, it adds richness and depth.
Garlic: Adds a punch of aromatic flavor that defines cowboy butter.
Lemon juice: Brightens the marinade and balances the richness of the butter.
Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and sharpness.
Smoked paprika: Infuses a warm, smoky note that plays well with grilled meat.
Red pepper flakes: Offers a kick of heat that you can adjust to taste.
Fresh parsley: Brings freshness and a pop of color.
Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing every other flavor.
Skewers: Wooden or metal, just soak wooden ones first to prevent burning.

How To Make the Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prep the Marinade

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, Dijon mustard, paprika, red pepper flakes, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized chunks and place them in a bowl. Pour about two-thirds of the cowboy butter over the chicken and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.

Step 3: Skewer and Grill

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.

Step 4: Baste and Serve

Brush the remaining cowboy butter over the cooked skewers right before serving. Finish with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

Serving and Storing Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers

These skewers are best served hot off the grill, with a drizzle of leftover cowboy butter for that final flavor boost. They’re perfect for casual gatherings, picnics, or even weeknight dinners. This recipe feeds about 4 people as a main dish.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or a skillet to keep the chicken juicy.

What to Serve With Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers?

Grilled Corn with Chili Lime Butter

The smoky-sweet corn complements the spicy butter of the skewers beautifully.

Cajun Potato Soup

Creamy and rich, this soup balances the charred edges of the chicken with a cozy base.

Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad

A cool, creamy side that makes any grilled meat sing.

Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Sweet and buttery, this dish mirrors the richness of cowboy butter.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Double down on savory goodness by pairing skewers with this hearty bake.

Creamy Corn Dip

A scoopable starter that keeps everyone happy while the grill heats up.

Easy Baked Burrito Casserole

Go big with a Tex-Mex mashup to turn dinner into a full-blown fiesta.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love these Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers, you’ll probably enjoy these other juicy, flavor-packed dinners:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can find it anytime you crave something savory, smoky, and satisfying.

Let me know in the comments how your skewers turned out. Did you go extra spicy or keep it mild? Try grilling with veggies next time for a full skewer spread.

Explore beautifully curated chicken recipes and healthy meal ideas on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite is just a pin away.

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are everything we love about summer eating: quick to cook, bold in flavor, and fun to share. Whether it’s your first time making them or you’re a seasoned grill master, this recipe is a keeper for anyone who loves buttery, herby chicken with a smoky twist.