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Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites

Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites - Crispy, Flavorful, and Easy!

Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites are crispy, flavorful, and easy to make, perfect for casual get-togethers.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 bites
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs Thighs provide juiciness, while breasts are a leaner option.
  • 1 cup buttermilk Tenderizes the chicken; substitute with milk and apple cider vinegar.
For the Coating
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs Essential for a light, crispy texture.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
For the Flavors
  • 1/2 cup butter For richness; olive oil can be a lighter alternative.
  • 4 cloves fresh minced garlic The more fresh, the better!
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Add more for additional flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder Adjust based on your spice preference.
For the Cowboy Butter Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice Brightens and balances the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes Add according to your desired spice level.
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) Change it up with basil or cilantro if desired.

Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • small saucepan
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of buttermilk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the breadcrumb coating by combining panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  3. Coat the marinated chicken pieces in the breadcrumb mixture and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Make the Cowboy Butter sauce by melting butter, adding minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant, and mixing in lemon juice, smoked paprika, chili flakes, and salt.
  5. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway for even cooking.
  6. Combine the baked chicken with the Cowboy Butter sauce in a bowl, tossing to coat thoroughly.
  7. Serve the cowboy butter chicken bites garnished with chopped herbs and lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 2bitesCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.

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