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Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken

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This Irresistibly Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken is a quick, bold, and buttery skillet meal made with juicy chicken and a zesty garlic-herb cowboy butter sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner bursting with savory flavor, tangy lemon, Dijon mustard, and a touch of spice.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Skillet, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Western
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh chives or thyme (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet.
  4. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Stir in lemon juice, Dijon mustard, red pepper flakes, parsley, and optional herbs. Simmer for 1 minute.
  6. Return chicken to skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer gently for 1–2 more minutes to coat.
  7. Garnish with extra fresh herbs and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use shrimp or salmon instead of chicken for variety.
  • Stir in a splash of cream at the end for a richer sauce.
  • To add more heat, use cayenne pepper or spicy mustard.
  • Serve with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/irresistibly-easy-cowboy-butter-chicken/