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+ servings
Delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken served with rice and garnished with herbs.

Cowboy Butter Chicken

A simple, garlic-butter roast that transforms plain chicken breasts into a saucy, comforting dish, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

Chicken Ingredients
  • 4 pieces chicken breasts, boneless and skinless (about 6–8 oz each)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
Flavoring Ingredients
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 1/2 tsp garlic paste)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (flat-leaf preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, reduce for mild)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the breasts in a single layer.
  2. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant; do not let it brown.
  3. Stir in the parsley, chives, thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove the pan from the heat.
  4. Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  5. Pour the cowboy butter over the chicken, spooning it so each breast is well coated.
Cooking
  1. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the thickest part of the breast reaches 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
  2. Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges to brighten the sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 35gFat: 36gSaturated Fat: 20gSodium: 370mg

Notes

Best served with sides that soak up the buttery sauce, such as mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or roasted vegetables. For storage, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within two hours, for up to 3–4 days. Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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