There’s something magical about gathering around the grill on a summer evening, the warmth of the fading sun still lingering as the smoky scent of sizzling food fills the air. Growing up, weekends meant backyard cookouts with family and friends, the table crowded with colorful plates and laughter drifting long into the night. One dish that never failed to bring everyone running to the table was Grilled Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers.

This dish, with its roots in the bold flavors of the American West, feels like a celebration of rustic charm and hearty cooking. The cowboy butter—a rich blend of garlic, mustard, lemon, and spices—coats tender chicken in a luscious sauce that seeps into every bite. While cowboy butter may sound like a ranch-side invention, it’s become a global favorite, celebrated for transforming simple grilled meats into something unforgettable.

In our family, these skewers have become a symbol of togetherness, evoking memories of camping trips, tailgates, and summer potlucks. Whether served straight off the grill or piled high on a platter at a festive table, Grilled Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers deliver comfort, flavor, and a touch of adventure, every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with bold flavor thanks to the buttery, garlicky cowboy sauce.
• Quick and convenient, with minimal prep and cook time.
• Customizable spice level so you can make it mild or fiery.
• Perfect for any gathering, whether casual cookouts or festive meals.
• Great leftovers that taste just as delicious reheated the next day.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

How to Make Grilled Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the cowboy butter sauce: Start by whisking together the melted butter, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, chopped parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, Worcestershire sauce, and honey in a mixing bowl. The aroma will hit you right away—rich, garlicky, and a little zesty.
2. Marinate the chicken: Place the cubed chicken in a large bowl. Pour half of the cowboy butter sauce over the chicken, tossing gently until every piece is coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. During this time, the butter and spices will soak into the chicken, promising flavorful, juicy bites.
3. Preheat the grill: Fire up your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using an indoor grill pan, heat it over medium-high as well. This is when the anticipation builds—the smell of the grill signals dinner’s on its way.

1. Assemble the skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking. Watching the skewers fill up with colorful, seasoned chicken is part of the fun.
2. Grill the skewers: Place the skewers onto the hot grill. Cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally so each side develops a gorgeous char while cooking through. As the chicken cooks, the buttery marinade caramelizes slightly, adding to its irresistible appeal.
3. Baste with remaining sauce: In the last few minutes of grilling, brush the skewers with the leftover cowboy butter sauce. This step adds another punch of flavor and keeps the chicken moist and glossy.
4. Serve and enjoy: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the skewers from the grill. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving, garnished with extra chopped parsley if you like. I love piling them onto a large platter and watching them disappear before everyone’s plates are even filled.

Helpful Tips

• Cut chicken evenly: Uniform pieces ensure even cooking, so aim for 1-inch cubes.
• Control the heat: Use less cayenne or red pepper flakes for a milder dish—or add more if you love a spicy kick.
• Soak the skewers: Don’t skip soaking the wooden skewers to prevent burning on the grill.
• No grill? No problem: Bake in a 400°F oven for 20-25 minutes, turning once, if you don’t have a grill.

Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Fusion
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Notes

These skewers taste just as good cold, tucked into a wrap or atop a salad the next day. For a heartier meal, serve with rice, grilled vegetables, or warm flatbreads.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes! Beef cubes, lamb, shrimp, or even tofu work wonderfully with the cowboy butter sauce.

How long should I marinate the chicken?
A minimum of 30 minutes is fine, but marinating up to 2 hours will deepen the flavors even more.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely. Prepare the cowboy butter sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Gently warm it before using.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Remove chicken from skewers and freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed container.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Related Recipes

If you liked Grilled Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers, you’ll love:

• Lemon Chicken with Thyme
• POLLO ASADO CHIPOTLE (COPYCAT RECIPE)
• Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
• Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry: A Cozy, Flavor-Packed Favorite

Conclusion

Cooking Grilled Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers isn’t just about feeding a crowd—it’s about creating moments. Every smoky, buttery bite brings back memories of summer evenings, family laughter, and the comforting ritual of sharing a meal straight from the grill. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or indoors, these skewers are guaranteed to bring joy and flavor to your table.

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