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The Best Cowboy Butter Chicken

The Best Cowboy Butter Chicken
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The Best Cowboy Butter Chicken is a rich, buttery, and smoky dish featuring juicy chicken thighs or breasts simmered in a creamy garlic butter sauce with smoked paprika. This comforting and flavorful meal is quick to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • Chicken thighs or breasts (about 1.5 pounds, preferably skin-on and boneless)

Butter Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (plus extra for seasoning)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Additional Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp, golden crust. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to set the tone for the dish.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful caramelized crust. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and stir frequently for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, infusing the butter with aromatic garlic notes.
  4. Create the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in extra smoked paprika, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly and develops a luscious creamy texture.
  5. Return Chicken to Sauce: Nestle the browned chicken pieces back into the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  6. Finish and Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately for the ultimate indulgence.

Notes

  • Use room temperature chicken to ensure even cooking and juicy meat.
  • Don’t rush the browning process; a good sear adds essential flavor and texture.
  • Always use fresh minced garlic for bright and authentic flavor instead of garlic powder.
  • Simmer the sauce gently on low heat to thicken without curdling the cream.
  • Adjust seasoning gradually by tasting before serving to achieve the perfect balance.

Nutrition

Keywords: butter chicken, cowboy butter chicken, creamy chicken recipe, smoked paprika chicken, easy chicken dinner, gluten free chicken

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/the-best-cowboy-butter-chicken/