why make this recipe
Cowboy Butter Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a flavor-packed delight that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. With juicy chicken breasts and a rich, buttery sauce infused with garlic and spices, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. It’s simple to prepare, and you only need a few ingredients to create something really special. So why not add this recipe to your cooking rotation?
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
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Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This step will enhance the flavor and help the chicken develop a beautiful golden crust when cooked.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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).
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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.
how to serve Cowboy Butter Chicken
Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken hot straight from the skillet. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over rice or pasta to soak up the delicious creamy sauce. You can also enjoy it with a side of crusty bread or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch for presentation.
how to store Cowboy Butter Chicken
To store Cowboy Butter Chicken, let it cool completely after cooking. Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will last up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it; just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. For best results, consume frozen leftovers within 3 months.
tips to make Cowboy Butter Chicken
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in spices and a little lemon juice for a few hours before cooking.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible for the best flavor. Dried herbs can be used if fresh are unavailable.
- If you want a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half and half or reduce the amount of butter used.
variation (if any)
You can easily modify this recipe to suit your tastes. Try adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor. For a kick, consider adding a splash of hot sauce. If you prefer a lighter meal, you can replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth or use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
FAQs
Can I make Cowboy Butter Chicken without butter?
Yes, you can use olive oil or another cooking oil instead. It will change the flavor slightly but still be delicious.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
It’s best to thaw the chicken before cooking for even cooking and flavor absorption.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should be at least 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Can I make Cowboy Butter Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to store it properly in the fridge.
A creamy and flavorful chicken dish
Description
Cowboy Butter Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish featuring juicy chicken breasts in a rich, buttery sauce infused with garlic and spices.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add Dijon mustard, red pepper flakes, parsley, and dill.
- Pour in lemon juice, chicken broth, and heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet and coat with the sauce. Cover and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with additional parsley and serve hot with your choice of sides.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken prior to cooking.
