This Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken is a quick chicken recipe that bursts with zesty, buttery flavor. Juicy pan seared chicken breast gets coated in a creamy garlic butter sauce with lemon and herbs for a meal that feels indulgent but takes just minutes to make.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- It is ready in less than 30 minutes.
- The sauce is creamy, garlicky, and full of bold flavor.
- It turns simple chicken into a restaurant worthy creamy chicken dinner.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast : tender and juicy base for the dish
- Butter : adds richness and creates the cowboy butter sauce
- Garlic : gives a warm, savory flavor to the sauce
- Lemon juice : brightens and balances the buttery flavor
- Paprika : adds color and a mild smoky taste
- Parsley : freshens the creamy sauce and adds a pop of green
- Red pepper flakes : a touch of heat that livens up the chicken
- Salt and pepper : simple seasoning to enhance all flavors
Step by Step Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, then add butter. When it melts, place the chicken in the pan and cook until golden brown and cooked through. This makes perfect pan seared chicken breast with crispy edges.
- Remove the chicken and add garlic, lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes to the same pan. Stir until fragrant and creamy. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it.
- Let it simmer for a minute to absorb the creamy cowboy butter sauce. Serve warm.
Mistakes To Avoid
When making Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken, a few small mistakes can change the texture and flavor. Here is how to keep your creamy garlic butter sauce just right.
- Do not overcook the chicken. It will dry out quickly and lose its juicy bite.
- Do not burn the garlic. Cook it only until fragrant or the sauce will taste bitter.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy cowboy butter chicken pairs beautifully with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or fluffy rice. For a full meal, try it with herby chimichurri chicken thighs or a sweet and tangy twist like teriyaki chicken with sesame noodles. For something crispy, check out the homemade country fried chicken recipe. You can also serve this cowboy butter chicken in a chicken bowl recipe with greens and grains for a lighter option.
Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pieces chicken breast
Cowboy Butter Sauce
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice fresh
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp parsley chopped
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, then add butter. When it melts, place the chicken in the pan and cook until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and add garlic, lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes to the same pan. Stir until fragrant and creamy.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Let it simmer for a minute to absorb the creamy cowboy butter sauce.
- Serve warm with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can. Chicken thighs stay juicy and flavorful, especially with buttery sauces. Just cook them a little longer to make sure they reach the right temperature. The sauce will cling even better to their rich texture.
How do I store leftover cowboy butter chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce creamy. Avoid microwaving for too long or the butter sauce may separate.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can sear the chicken ahead and make the sauce when ready to serve. It tastes best fresh, but prepping the chicken early makes it even easier on busy nights. Just reheat the chicken gently in the sauce to bring back its creamy goodness.
Conclusion
This Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken brings together creamy garlic mushrooms, juicy seared chicken breast, and a zesty buttery sauce that melts in your mouth. It is a simple and quick chicken recipe that delivers big flavor every time. Pin this creamy chicken dinner and make it your new go to for busy nights when you want comfort and ease on one plate.
