why make this recipe
Cowboy Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with a rich, buttery sauce. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress their family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The bold flavors from the garlic, lemon, and spices make each bite irresistible. Plus, it’s a straightforward recipe that is easy to follow, making it suitable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
how to make Cowboy Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet, depending on preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped (optional but recommended)
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- ½ cup chicken broth (or water for a lighter option)
- ½ cup heavy cream
Directions:
- Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This will enhance the flavor and help the chicken develop a beautiful golden crust when cooked.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Allow it to melt, then stir in the minced garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the Dijon mustard, red pepper flakes, parsley, and dill, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the lemon juice, chicken broth, and heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, ensuring they’re coated with the sauce. Cover the skillet and let the chicken cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish the chicken with additional parsley. Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as crusty bread, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Cowboy Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful dish of juicy chicken breasts in a rich, buttery sauce, perfect for impressing family or guests.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
- Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the skillet and melt. Stir in garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Dijon mustard, red pepper flakes, parsley, and dill, stirring to combine.
- Pour in lemon juice, chicken broth, and heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from heat and garnish with additional parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for the best sear. Adjust spice level with red pepper flakes as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
how to serve Cowboy Butter Chicken
Serve this delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken with side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Some great options include crusty bread to soak up the sauce, fluffy rice, or roasted vegetables. You can also add a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast.
how to store Cowboy Butter Chicken
To store leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken, let it cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
tips to make Cowboy Butter Chicken
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning for the best sear.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the spices and olive oil for a few hours before cooking.
variation
You can easily customize this recipe. Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for added nutrition. If you want a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk.
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FAQs
1. Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as the skin can take longer to crisp up.
2. Is this dish spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted by modifying the amount of red pepper flakes. Use less if you prefer a milder flavor.
3. Can I freeze Cowboy Butter Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure it’s in an airtight container. It will last up to three months in the freezer.
