Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper chili flakes
- 1 tsp lemon zest
Instructions
- Step 1: Cube the chicken and lightly season with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil (not listed above, assumed pantry staple) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken bites until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 2: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the unsalted butter to the same skillet and allow it to melt completely.
- Step 3: Once the butter is melted, stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and red pepper chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and softened, ensuring the mixture does not burn.
- Step 4: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and the lemon zest to complete the Cowboy Butter sauce.
- Step 5: Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet. Toss thoroughly using tongs or a spoon until all the chicken pieces are completely coated in the herby, buttery sauce. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring the chicken is submerged in the solidified butter sauce to maintain flavor and moisture.
- Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter melts and the chicken is warmed through—avoid the microwave, which can make the chicken dry.
- Serve these flavorful bites over creamy mashed potatoes or alongside a bright, crisp salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the butter sauce.
- To maximize the smoky depth of the Cowboy Butter, allow the smoked paprika and chili flakes to "bloom" in the melted butter for the full minute in Step 3 before the garlic starts to brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American