Grilled Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Grilled Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are juicy, marinated chicken bites threaded on skewers and basted with a zesty, garlicky cowboy butter, then charred to perfection on the grill.
You’ll taste golden, buttery edges, a whisper of smoke, and that irresistible mix of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors each bite melt-in-your-mouth tender and packed with cozy summer vibes. I still remember serving a piled-high platter at our last backyard gathering, laughter swirling with the scent of sizzling butter and fresh herbs. What makes these skewers extra special? They’re incredibly easy, bold with flavor from pantry spices and real butter, and always turn out perfectly crisp outside, juicy inside. Get ready to create summer memories these skewers are pure feel-good comfort, straight off the grill.
Why These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers Are a Summer Hit
- Buttery, charred edges every time: The cowboy butter melts right into the grill marks, giving each bite-rich caramelized flavor and a golden, crisp-tender finish.
- Juicy chicken, never dry: Every mouthful is ultra-moist and packed with bold, garlicky goodness, thanks to an easy marinate-and-grill approach.
- Simple for any grill skill: Whether you’re a charcoal lover or an indoor grill pan devotee, these skewers come together with zero fuss.
- The spirit of summer gatherings: Imagine passing a warm platter around the table at sunset relaxed, laughter-filled, with buttery chicken skewers made to share.
- Big flavor, little effort: You’ll find these skewers bring boldness with pantry spices and fresh herbs, creating new summertime memories with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The base of these skewers, offering tender, juicy bites with a mild flavor that soaks up all the buttery, garlicky goodness.
- Unsalted butter: This is the heart of the cowboy butter melty, golden, and rich. Use plant-based butter if you need a dairy-free option.
- Fresh garlic: Minced for a bold and aromatic punch. Garlic powder works in a pinch, but fresh will give you that irresistible sizzle.
- Dijon mustard: For a tangy, lightly spicy backbone that wakes up every bite.
- Lemon juice: Adds a sunny, zesty brightness. Bottled works if that’s what you have, but fresh is extra vibrant.
- Smoked paprika: Brings gentle smokiness and warmth, replacing that fire-kissed flavor even if you’re grilling indoors.
- Cayenne pepper and crushed red pepper flakes: For just the right level of heat. Adjust to your family’s spice preference, or substitute with chili powder.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped for a fresh, green finish. Try cilantro for a different herby twist.
- Honey: Just a hint, for delicious caramelized edges. Maple syrup is a lovely swap.
- Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the umami; coconut aminos or soy sauce can sub in a pinch.
- Wooden skewers: Soaked before use to prevent burning and keep things easy and approachable.
How to Make Grilled Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
- Whisk the Cowboy Butter Sauce
Start by combining melted butter, garlic, zesty Dijon, fresh lemon juice, bold spices, and herbs in a bowl. The aroma is pure summer rich and savory with just a hint of heat. - Marinate the Chicken
Toss juicy, cubed chicken in half the cowboy butter sauce. Let it rest in the fridge so every piece soaks up those buttery flavors just enough time to cue the dinner anticipation. - Fire Up the Grill
Heat your grill (or grill pan) until it’s searing hot. This is when you’ll catch those first smoky notes drifting through the backyard. - Thread and Prepare
Skewer the marinated chicken, leaving a little space between each piece for even charring. The colorful, spice-flecked chunks look beautiful, even before hitting the flames. - Grill to Perfection
Place the skewers over direct heat, turning until each side has a golden, slightly crispy edge and the inside stays juicy.
- Baste and Finish
Brush the skewers with your reserved cowboy butter during the last few minutes. This step is what gives them that signature glossy, flavorful finish. - Serve and Savor
Transfer immediately to a platter, let rest briefly, then dig in. For another delicious skewer recipe, try these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Tips for the Best Results
- Marinate for full flavor: Letting the chicken soak in that garlicky cowboy butter marinade makes all the difference don’t rush this step! The longer it sits, the juicier and more flavorful the skewers get.
- Prevent dry chicken: Don’t overcook! Chicken turns from tender to tough pretty quickly. Grill just until the edges are golden and the juices run clear.
- Basque in buttery basting: Brushing on the leftover cowboy butter during the last minutes of grilling keeps things moist and amps up the flavor, leaving you with irresistible, glossy skewers.
- Watch the butter: Too-high grill heat can burn butter fast. Keep it at medium-high, and move the skewers if flare-ups happen smoky, not scorched, is what we’re after.
- Give them space: Thread chicken pieces with a little room between each so heat can circulate, creating those perfectly crispy edges and caramelization we all crave.
Flavor Swaps & Easy Substitutions
Spice it your way: Don’t be shy swap smoked paprika for chipotle or chili powder, or add extra crushed red pepper if you like things spicy. A sprinkle of lemon pepper brightens everything up.
Dairy-free delight: For a dairy-free version, use olive oil or a vegan butter spread in place of regular butter. The result is still golden, glossy, and packed with cowboy flavor.
Gluten-free made easy: Good news the original recipe is already gluten-free as long as your Worcestershire sauce and mustard are safe, so double-check those labels.
Veggie-forward twist: Prefer plants? Use cubed zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms in place of chicken. Toss them in the cowboy butter marinade and grill until caramelized for a smoky, satisfying bite.
Mix and match proteins: Try swapping in shrimp or tofu for a fun new take. Marinate and skewer just like the chicken for a meal that’s both flexible and crowd-friendly.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Storing in the Fridge: Place any leftover Grilled Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh and tender in the fridge, perfect for tossing onto a lunch salad or piling into wraps the next day.
- Freezer-Friendly Comfort: For longer storage, wrap cooled skewers tightly or pop them into freezer bags. This keeps them from absorbing unwanted freezer odors and gives you an easy dinner option tucked away for busy nights.
- Gentle Reheating: For juicy, flavorful chicken, gently warm the skewers in the oven or on the stovetop. Cover them with foil so they don’t dry out or lose that dreamy cowboy butter finish.
- Meal Prep Tip: Dice leftovers and stir them into rice bowls, like this One Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice for a cozy next-day meal that feels brand new.
What to Eat These With
- Crisp, Vibrant Salads: A juicy tomato and corn salad or a fresh garden slaw balances the richness of the buttered chicken skewers, adding a little crunch and brightness to every bite.
- Buttery Potatoes: Pair your skewers with roasted potatoes or creamy mashed potatoes for that ultimate comfort food combination. The buttery potatoes soak up every bit of leftover cowboy butter pure magic!
- Easy Veggie Sides: Try grilled asparagus, seared broccolini, or simple green beans tossed with lemon and olive oil. If you love a cozy skillet side, Skillet Chicken and Green Beans is a favorite at our house.
- Creamy, Cozy Dishes: Serve alongside mac and cheese or a scoop of creamy coleslaw to make the meal extra hearty.
- Family-Style Gathering: Set everything on a big platter skewers, salad, potatoes and invite everyone to dig in for a relaxed, pass-the-dish kind of meal.
Grilled Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk 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.
- 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 and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or prepare an indoor grill pan over medium-high.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Place the skewers onto the hot grill. Cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally until each side is charred and chicken is cooked through.
- Brush the skewers with the remaining cowboy butter sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for added flavor and gloss.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove from the grill. Let rest a few minutes before serving, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Can I prepare Grilled Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and keep it in the fridge for deeper flavor. Skewer everything a few hours ahead, then cover and chill until you’re ready to grill. It makes hosting a breeze and lets you relax with your guests.
How do I keep the skewers from sticking to the grill?
Before grilling, give your hot grill grates a quick brush and a light oiling with a paper towel dipped in oil. This simple step helps the skewers lift off easily, delivering those gorgeous grill marks without losing any tasty bits to the grates.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover skewers without drying them out?
I suggest warming the skewers gently in a covered dish either in the oven at a low temperature or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water. This keeps the chicken juicy, while protecting that luscious, buttery coating you worked so hard for.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Of course! Chicken thighs are extra juicy and just as easy to skewer. They might cook a tiny bit longer, but you’ll get even richer, more succulent bites. If you love a little more tenderness and flavor, chicken thighs are a wonderful swap.
