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Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites - bold and buttery chicken bites for a delicious meal.

Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites

These Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites are quick to prepare and bursting with bold flavors, making them perfect for any occasion as a snack or main dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 410
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Bites
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 medium shallots, finely minced
  • 6 cloves garlic, freshly minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 medium Juice of 1 lemon
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season with salt and black pepper.
  2. Melt half of the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced shallots and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the smoked paprika, chili powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
Cooking
  1. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken pieces in a single layer, searing for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
  2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the remaining butter to the skillet.
  3. Once melted, return the chicken to the skillet and add a squeeze of lemon juice. Toss to coat the chicken in the sauce.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chopped parsley or chives. Serve immediately.

Notes

Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning to get a nice sear. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes. Use fresh herbs if you can; they make a flavorful difference. Feel free to double the recipe for a larger gathering.