Go Back
If you're on the lookout for a dish that perfectly marries convenience with an explosion of flavor, look no further than Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken. This recipe elevates ordinary chicken thighs into a culinary masterpiece with a simple yet irresistible cowboy butter sauce. The rich mixture of butter, herbs, and spices transforms the chicken into a succulent dish that’s both satisfying and bursting with taste.

Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken

Discover the flavors of the Wild West with this Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken! Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a rich blend of garlic, herbs, and spices, then cooked until golden brown. Toss in extra cowboy butter for a mouthwatering finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner with family or friends, this dish is simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Serve it up with fresh lemon wedges and garnished with parsley and cilantro for a delicious touch!
Pin Recipe Print Recipe

Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Butter Mix: In a bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped cilantro, smoked paprika, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.

    Marinate the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Place them in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and coat them generously with half of the cowboy butter mixture. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge) to enhance the flavors.

      Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and are golden brown.

        Add Extra Flavor: During the last couple minutes of cooking, drop the remaining cowboy butter mixture into the skillet. Allow it to melt and coat the chicken, creating a rich, flavorful sauce.

          Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice or serve whole, drizzled with extra cowboy butter sauce from the skillet. Garnish with additional parsley and cilantro, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh zing.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings