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At the heart of this recipe is the concept of "cowboy butter," a term that evokes images of rustic kitchens and hearty meals enjoyed around a campfire. Originating in the Southern United States, cowboy butter refers to a compound butter that's rich in flavor, typically made with garlic, herbs, and spices. This flavorful blend is often used to enhance grilled meats and vegetables, providing an indulgent twist that transforms ordinary dishes into extraordinary ones.

Cowboy Butter Chicken

Delight in this mouthwatering Cowboy Butter Chicken recipe! With juicy chicken thighs marinated in a rich, flavorful butter blend featuring garlic, herbs, and spices, this dish is sure to impress. Quick to prepare and ready in under an hour, it's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Whip this up for a taste of the wild west right in your kitchen!
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Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Zest of 1 lemon

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Optional: Crusty bread for serving

Instructions
 

Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped chives, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

    Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Add half of the cowboy butter mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally up to 2 hours for more flavor.

      Cook the Chicken: Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs to the skillet (discard any remaining marinade). Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

        Add the Cowboy Butter: Once the chicken is cooked, lower the heat and spoon the remaining cowboy butter mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Allow it to melt and simmer for about 2-3 minutes, basting the chicken with the sauce to soak up all that flavor.

          Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Plate the chicken and spoon more of the butter sauce over the top. Accompany with crusty bread for dipping into the luscious sauce if desired.

            Enjoy Your Meal! Garnish with additional herbs if you like, and serve immediately.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4