Name: Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 450g boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 85g unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh chives chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Smoky, juicy, and packed with zesty flavor, these Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are your new grilling obsession. Infused with a garlicky herb butter and kissed by flame, every bite delivers bold flavor and juicy tenderness. Perfect for summer barbecues, tailgate parties, or easy weeknight grilling, this recipe turns simple chicken into a crave-worthy dish.

Whether you’re using the grill or a stovetop grill pan, the cowboy butter marinade guarantees a golden, slightly charred crust that locks in juicy goodness. The herbs, chili flakes, lemon, and garlic all melt together into a buttery glaze that coats each skewer beautifully. It’s rich, bright, and spicy all at once—just the way cowboy food should be.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great choice for these skewers because they stay extra juicy on the grill. However, if you prefer white meat, boneless chicken breasts will also work well—just be sure not to overcook them. Cut the chicken into even chunks so they cook evenly.

Ingredients for the Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers

Chicken thighs or breasts – The star of the show. Opt for boneless, skinless cuts that are easy to skewer and grill.

Unsalted butter – The base for cowboy butter, creating a rich, flavorful sauce that clings to every bite.

Fresh garlic – For that aromatic punch that balances the richness of the butter.

Parsley, chives, and thyme – Fresh herbs add brightness and depth to the marinade.

Lemon juice and zest – Adds a citrusy zing that balances the richness of the butter.

Red pepper flakes – Brings just enough heat to make things interesting.

Smoked paprika – Adds a smoky depth that pairs perfectly with the grill.

Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning and rounding out the flavors.

Olive oil – Helps the marinade stick to the chicken and aids in even browning.

How To Make the Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Cut your chicken into evenly sized chunks, about 1.5 inches each. This ensures quick, even cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the marinade stick.

Step 2: Make the Cowboy Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Stir in minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, chopped parsley, chives, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until aromatic and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken chunks in a bowl or zip-top bag and pour in half of the cowboy butter. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Mix well to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) in the refrigerator.

Step 4: Skewer and Grill

Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked wooden or metal skewers. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and lightly charred.

Step 5: Baste and Serve

Brush the remaining cowboy butter over the hot skewers just before serving for an extra layer of flavor. Garnish with extra herbs if desired.

Serving and Storing Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers

Serve these skewers hot off the grill with a drizzle of leftover cowboy butter and a sprinkle of chopped herbs. For storing, let them cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on a skillet or in the oven.