Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites are juicy pieces of chicken coated in a zesty butter sauce with garlic and spices. Perfect for a tasty snack or party treat!
These bites are super easy to make and are always a hit! I love serving them with toothpicks, so everyone can enjoy a little taste without getting too messy. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this dish. Thighs tend to be juicier, but if you prefer chicken breasts, go for those! If you need a substitute, consider tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the chicken a great crunchy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can work, but the crunch might not be as pronounced. For gluten-free, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs available at most stores.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice flavor. If you’re out, try using Pecorino Romano or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Spices: Smoked paprika and garlic powder are key for flavor. If you want a different twist, try using Cajun seasoning or Italian herbs instead. Adjust the chili powder based on your heat preference!
Butter and Garlic: Unsalted butter is perfect for this recipe. You can use olive oil for a lighter option or even vegan butter if you’re looking for a plant-based choice.
How Do I Get the Chicken Bites Crispy?
Getting your chicken bites crispy and golden is all about the coating and baking method. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve that perfect crunch:
- Make sure to really coat each chicken piece in the egg wash and then the breadcrumb mixture. Pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken helps form a better crust.
- Place the coated chicken bites evenly on the baking sheet with some space between them. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece, helping them crisp up.
- For the best results, flip the chicken halfway through baking. This ensures both sides get that lovely golden color.
- If you want an extra crunch, broil them for a minute at the end. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Ranch or your favorite dipping sauce, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10-15 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes before you’re indulging in these tasty bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key to getting those chicken bites nice and crispy! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease so nothing sticks.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. This will be our flavor-packed coating that makes the chicken so delicious!
3. Get the Egg Wash Ready:
In another bowl, crack the two eggs and whisk them well. This egg wash helps the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take each piece of chicken and dip it into the egg wash, letting any extra egg drip off. Then, turn it over in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly to make sure it’s fully coated. Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake the Chicken Bites:
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake the chicken bites for 15-20 minutes. Make sure to flip them halfway through cooking to get both sides crispy. They should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Make the Garlic Butter:
While the chicken is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, if using, and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
7. Combine and Serve:
Once the chicken bites are done baking, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Pour the warm garlic butter over the chicken bites and toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve immediately with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce.
These Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites are sure to be a hit at any gathering, bringing together a crispy exterior, juicy interior, and a heavenly buttery garlic flavor. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and add extra flavor. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces, and follow the same cooking instructions for best results.
Can I Make These Chicken Bites in the Air Fryer?
Yes, you can! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the chicken bites for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. They should be crispy and golden brown!
What Can I Serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites?
These bites pair wonderfully with ranch dressing for dipping, but feel free to serve them with any of your favorite sauces. They also go great with a side salad or veggies for a complete meal!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get them crispy again.
