These Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites are a tasty treat! Juicy chicken pieces are cooked in a cheesy, buttery sauce that’s bursting with flavor. They’re perfect for a fun snack or appetizer.
Trust me, once you try these bites, you won’t want to stop munching! I like to serve them with some crispy bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless thighs for more flavor and juiciness. If you prefer breast meat, that’s perfectly fine too. You can even substitute chicken with cubed tofu or seitan for a vegetarian option!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness of the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use olive oil or vegan butter. Just keep in mind the taste may differ a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely nuttiness. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. For a stronger taste, Pecorino Romano works well too.
Spices: The spices can be adjusted according to your taste. Feel free to substitute smoked paprika for a more robust, smoky flavor, or omit the cayenne if you prefer a milder dish.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Golden Brown?
Getting your chicken bites nicely cooked is crucial for flavor and texture! Follow these tips:
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chicken; a hot pan helps achieve that golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet! Cook in batches if necessary, so the chicken can brown properly.
- Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and no longer pink inside.
These small details make a big difference in achieving mouthwatering chicken bites! Happy cooking! 🐔✨
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for mild heat)
For the Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
For Serving:
- Ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’ll spend about 30 to 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick, delicious meal or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by mixing together the salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional cayenne pepper in a large bowl. Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces in this seasoning mixture until they are well coated.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken bites in a single layer. If you have too much chicken, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Buttery Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Allow it to melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not burned. Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and lemon juice to create a delicious buttery sauce.
4. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet and toss them in the buttery sauce until they are fully coated and warmed through. Once everything is well mixed, transfer the Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites to a serving dish. Garnish with some extra chopped parsley for color. Serve them hot with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce, if desired.
Enjoy these tasty, buttery chicken bites that are perfect for snacking or sharing with friends!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight for the safest method, or use the quick method of placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Make sure to pat it dry to ensure even cooking!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you want to amp up the heat, consider increasing the amount of cayenne pepper or adding red pepper flakes. You could also use a spicier seasoning blend or marinate the chicken in hot sauce before cooking for an extra kick!
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with bite-sized pieces of firm tofu, tempeh, or even mushrooms. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed. Cook until browned and heated through, and follow the same steps to create that delicious buttery sauce!
