Cowboy Butter Chicken – Crispy, Juicy, and Flavor-Packed
Craving a finger-licking good meal that’s bold, crispy, and bursting with flavor? Cowboy Butter Chicken combines tender, crunchy chicken with a rich, zesty dipping sauce that’s impossible to resist.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or parties, this dish pairs juicy chicken tenders with cowboy butter – a spicy, garlicky, herby sauce that takes things to the next level. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe will make you the star of the kitchen!
What is Cowboy Butter Chicken?
Cowboy Butter Chicken is a delightful fusion of crispy chicken tenders and the famous cowboy butter – a flavorful sauce packed with garlic, lemon, spices, and fresh herbs. The tenders are coated in a crunchy cornflake crust and fried or baked until golden brown, then dipped or drizzled with melted cowboy butter for that irresistible kick.
The combination of crunchy chicken and buttery, spicy sauce creates a flavor explosion that’s perfect for dipping, drizzling, or even slathering over vegetables.
Ingredients for Cowboy Butter Chicken
Chicken Tenders
- 2 lb chicken tenderloins – Juicy and tender, perfect for frying or baking.
- 1/2 cup flour – Helps the coating stick.
- 1 tbsp all-purpose seasoning – Cajun or kick’n chicken seasoning works great.
- 1 tsp salt – Enhances the flavor.
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked pepper – Adds a hint of heat.
- 2 eggs – Binds the coating to the chicken.
- 1/4 cup milk or buttermilk – Keeps the tenders moist and tender.
- 3 cups cornflakes (crushed) – Creates a super crispy coating.
- Olive oil or avocado oil spray – Aerosol spray ensures even cooking.
Cowboy Butter
- 1 stick butter (mostly melted) – The star of the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced) – Adds a punch of flavor.
- 1/2 lemon (zested and juiced) – For zesty brightness.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – Adds depth and tang.
- 1 tsp paprika – Smoked or regular.
- 1/2 tsp cayenne or red pepper flakes – For that signature cowboy heat.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme – Earthy, aromatic flavor.
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes – A little extra kick.
- 1 tbsp chives or green onions (sliced) – Fresh and mild.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (minced) – Bright and herbaceous.
- Kosher salt and pepper to taste – Balance the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels.
- In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a second bowl, whisk the eggs and milk.
- In a third bowl, place the crushed cornflakes.
2. Coat the Chicken
- Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Dip the floured tender into the egg wash.
- Press the chicken into the crushed cornflakes, coating evenly.
3. Cook the Chicken
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F. Spray tenders with oil and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Oven: Preheat to 425°F. Place chicken on a lined baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
- Pan-Fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook tenders for 3-4 minutes per side until crispy and cooked through.
4. Make the Cowboy Butter
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Stir in the garlic, lemon zest, and juice.
- Whisk in Dijon mustard, paprika, cayenne, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
- Remove from heat and add chives, parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve
- Drizzle the cowboy butter over the chicken tenders or serve it as a dipping sauce on the side.
Pro Tips for the Best Cowboy Butter Chicken
- Crush Cornflakes by Hand – This keeps the coating chunky and extra crispy.
- Marinate for Flavor – Let the chicken sit in the egg and milk mixture for 30 minutes for even juicier tenders.
- Use Fresh Garlic – Freshly minced garlic gives the cowboy butter unbeatable flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 2 Tenders)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 26g |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 105mg |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Sodium | 430mg |
Health Concerns
- High in Fat – Due to butter and frying, but baking or air frying reduces this.
- Sodium Levels – Can be high; opt for low-sodium seasoning or butter.
- Spicy for Some – Reduce cayenne for a milder flavor.
Pros and Cons of Cowboy Butter Chicken
Pros:
- Crispy, juicy, and flavorful.
- Crowd-pleaser for events or dinners.
- Easy to customize with different spices.
Cons:
- Higher in calories and fat.
- Requires multiple steps (but worth it!).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Cowboy Butter Chicken last?
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
Can I make cowboy butter ahead of time?
- Yes, store it in the fridge for up to a week and reheat gently.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free flour and cornflakes.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of tenders?
- Absolutely! Adjust cooking time as needed.
What’s the best dip for this chicken?
- Ranch, honey mustard, or even BBQ sauce pairs perfectly.
Conclusion
Cowboy Butter Chicken delivers a mouthwatering, crispy experience with bold, rich flavors that are perfect for any occasion. Whether baked, air-fried, or pan-fried, the combination of tender chicken and zesty cowboy butter will leave you coming back for more.