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Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites
Caroline

Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites

Juicy chicken bites seared until golden and tossed in a bold cowboy butter sauce made with garlic, lemon, Dijon, and herbs. This quick skillet recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • salt, to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • lemon wedges, for serving

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • tongs or spatula

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken pieces dry and season generously with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Cook the chicken in batches, searing for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet.
  5. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Stir in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, parsley, thyme, and cayenne if using.
  7. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss until fully coated in the sauce.
  8. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  9. Remove from heat and garnish with additional parsley if desired.
  10. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

Dredging the chicken lightly in cornstarch before cooking adds extra crispiness. Add the sauce gradually if you prefer a lighter coating. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. Excellent served over rice, pasta, or vegetables.