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Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Recipe Ready in 30 Minutes

Easy One-Pan Chicken · Quick Weeknight Dinner · Ready in 20 minutes with minimal cleanup

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • For the Cowboy Butter Sauce
  • 1/2 cup high-quality butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
  2. Start by using paper towels to thoroughly pat the chicken breasts dry. This is a crucial step for getting a beautiful crust. Season both sides generously with the paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Step 2: Sear the Meat
  4. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken. Sear for about five to seven minutes per side until deeply golden brown and cooked all the way through. The internal temperature should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  5. Step 3: Build the Butter Sauce
  6. Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean plate and lower the heat to medium-low. In the exact same skillet, add the butter and let it melt completely. Toss in the minced garlic, fresh parsley, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes. Stir continuously and let everything cook for about one to two minutes until incredibly fragrant.
  7. Step 4: Bring It All Together
  8. Turn off the heat and stir the fresh lemon zest and lemon juice into the herbed butter. Place the chicken back into the skillet, turning each piece to coat it well.
  9. Step 5: Garnish and Serve
  10. Use a large spoon to generously baste the rich, buttery sauce over the top of the chicken. Serve immediately while hot, ensuring everyone gets extra sauce drizzled on their plates.