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Cowboy Butter Chicken

Cowboy Butter Chicken: Juicy Bites in Luscious Sauce

Cowboy Butter Chicken features tender, juicy chicken morsels in a garlicky butter sauce with a zesty twist, perfect for keto enthusiasts.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 bites
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts Perfectly tender pieces that ensure juicy bites full of flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Essential for searing, providing a rich base for the chicken.
For the Cowboy Butter Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Creates a creamy texture that forms the rich base of the sauce.
  • 2-3 cloves Garlic Adds depth and a wonderful aroma, enhancing the overall flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Delivers tanginess that brightens the sauce.
  • 1 juice & zest Lemon Introduces fresh acidity, balancing the buttery richness.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Provides a mild heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Imparts subtle smokiness and depth to the flavor profile.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Introduce herbal freshness that elevates the taste.
  • 2 sprigs Fresh Thyme Introduce herbal freshness that elevates the taste.
  • Salt Season to taste, enhancing all the flavors.
  • Pepper Season to taste, enhancing all the flavors.
Optional Enhancements
  • 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Toss in for an extra spicy kick if you desire more heat.
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Use for a crispier texture when dredging the chicken before searing.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season each piece generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes. Carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet, ensuring they don't overcrowd. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.
  3. With the skillet still over medium heat, reduce the temperature slightly and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely, swirling occasionally, before adding 2-3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, the juice and zest of 1 lemon, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika into the melted butter, mixing until well combined.
  5. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, coating each piece in the butter sauce. Let everything simmer for 1-2 minutes to heat through and allow the chicken to absorb the flavors.
  6. Transfer the Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites to a serving platter, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1biteCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Dredging chicken in cornstarch can create extra crispiness. Adjust heat from red pepper flakes based on spice preference. Meal prep the sauce ahead for convenience.

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