Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken

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Juicy chicken breasts seared until golden and smothered in a creamy cowboy butter sauce packed with garlic, lemon, paprika, and fresh herbs. This Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken brings bold Southern flavor in every bite, all while being easy enough for a weeknight dinner and impressive enough for guests.

Whether you’re craving something comforting, spicy, and rich, or looking for a quick skillet dinner that pairs well with your favorite sides, this dish has you covered. The sauce is luscious and buttery, with the perfect balance of heat and zesty lemon to keep things fresh. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end and you’ve got yourself a restaurant-worthy dinner right at home.

What Makes Cowboy Butter Sauce So Irresistible?

Cowboy butter is a magical mix of melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, and herbs. The combination creates a rich, slightly spicy sauce that pairs beautifully with seared meats. In this dish, the sauce is turned creamy with the help of heavy cream and coats the chicken perfectly. It’s bold, it’s zesty, and it’s downright addictive.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken

Chicken Breasts: The star of the show, seared to golden perfection. Opt for boneless, skinless breasts or thighs for a juicy result.

Butter: Unsalted butter forms the base of the cowboy butter sauce, bringing richness to every bite.

Garlic: Fresh minced garlic deepens the flavor of the sauce.

Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and balances the butter and cream.

Dijon Mustard: Offers a tangy punch that gives the sauce character.

Paprika & Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: The spice kick! Feel free to adjust to your heat preference.

Italian Seasoning & Fresh Parsley: Brings that earthy herb flavor that complements the sauce.

Heavy Cream: Turns the cowboy butter into a dreamy, silky sauce.

Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing the overall taste.

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How To Make the Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes per side). Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cowboy Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, Dijon mustard, paprika, crushed red pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to bloom the spices.

Step 3: Add the Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Return the Chicken

Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet and spoon the sauce over each piece. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving. Serve hot with extra sauce drizzled on top.

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How to Serve and Store Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken

Serve this dish hot right out of the skillet with plenty of that creamy cowboy butter sauce. It’s perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or quick weeknight indulgences.

To store, let the chicken cool completely before placing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to keep the sauce from separating. Add a splash of cream or water if needed.

What to Serve With Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken?

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the cowboy butter sauce beautifully.

Roasted Veggies

Try roasted green beans, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a colorful side.

Rice Pilaf

A simple rice pilaf is a great way to stretch the meal and enjoy every drop of the sauce.

Crusty Bread

Thick slices of toasted bread are perfect for mopping up that golden creamy sauce.

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Pair it with a warm bowl of Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for a comfort-filled dinner.

Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Crave extra richness? These Au Gratin Potatoes are the ideal side.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken was a hit, here are more must-try favorites from Savor Queen:

• Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy for set-it-and-forget-it comfort.
• Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken if you’re in the mood for something ultra cheesy.
• Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken for a Southern-style crunch.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan when pasta calls your name.
• One Pot French Onion Chicken Rice if you’re craving cozy one-pan goodness.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of bourbon or a drizzle of hot honey? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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