Cowboy Butter Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish that combines juicy, pan-seared chicken with a bold, buttery sauce infused with garlic, herbs, lemon, and a touch of heat. Inspired by the popular cowboy butter sauce, this recipe transforms simple chicken breasts into a comforting yet impressive meal that feels both rustic and elegant.
Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners, Cowboy Butter Chicken delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The creamy, tangy sauce coats every bite of chicken, making it a dish that’s guaranteed to please the whole family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold, buttery flavor with garlic, herbs, and a hint of spice
- Easy and quick to prepare with simple ingredients
- Versatile – pairs well with rice, pasta, vegetables, or bread
- Comforting yet elegant, ideal for everyday meals or guests
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
To make Cowboy Butter Chicken, you will need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cowboy Butter Sauce:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This helps build flavor and creates a golden crust during cooking.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Cowboy Butter Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet and allow it to melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the Dijon mustard, red pepper flakes, parsley, and dill. Stir well to combine the flavors.
4. Add Liquids
Pour in the lemon juice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Let it gently simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Finish Cooking the Chicken
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Tips for Best Results
- Use room-temperature chicken for even cooking
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat level
- For a lighter sauce, reduce the cream slightly and add more broth
- Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt or lemon as needed
Serving Suggestions
Cowboy Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed or buttery rice
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Pasta or egg noodles
- Roasted vegetables
- Crusty bread for soaking up the sauce
Conclusion
Cowboy Butter Chicken is a comforting, flavor-packed recipe that turns simple ingredients into a memorable meal. With its creamy, garlicky sauce and tender chicken, it’s the perfect balance of bold and comforting flavors. Easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.