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Close-up of delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites coated in a glossy sauce with herbs and chili flakes.

Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites

These cowboy butter chicken bites are tender, flavorful, and coated in a rich buttery garlic sauce with a hint of lemon. Perfect for quick dinners or appetizers, they are bold, satisfying, and Pinterest-worthy.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the chicken
  • 1 pound chicken breast cut into bite size pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
For the cowboy butter sauce
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley and thyme chopped
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

  1. Cut the chicken into even bite size pieces and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter until it begins to bubble.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
  5. Reduce heat slightly and stir in lemon juice and Dijon mustard, coating the chicken evenly.
  6. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens and clings to the chicken.
  7. Stir in the chopped herbs and red pepper flakes.
  8. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
  9. Serve warm with rice or vegetables if desired.
  10. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.

Notes

For extra flavor, spoon the sauce over the chicken just before serving to keep it glossy and rich.