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Cowboy Chicken Bites Recipe

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4.4 from 139 reviews

Cowboy Chicken Bites are flavorful, bite-sized pieces of boneless, skinless chicken breasts seasoned with a robust blend of dry spices, olive oil, and butter. These savory chicken bites are oven-baked to perfection with a crispy edge and tender interior, making them a delicious and easy-to-make meal or snack, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasonings

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 2 chicken breasts)
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried chives
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Other Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
  • Freshly chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Add cubed chicken to baking dish: Place the 1-inch cubed chicken breasts directly into the prepared baking dish in an even layer.
  3. Mix seasonings: In a small bowl, combine dry mustard, dried chives, dried parsley, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well until the seasoning blend is uniform.
  4. Season the chicken and add olive oil: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the cubed chicken. Drizzle the tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over the chicken and toss gently to coat all pieces evenly with both seasoning and oil.
  5. Top with butter: Scatter the cubed unsalted butter pieces evenly across the chicken to add richness and help keep the chicken moist during baking.
  6. Bake and stir: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, carefully stir the chicken to redistribute the butter and seasonings.
  7. Continue baking: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F, and the edges of the chicken pieces are lightly browned.
  8. Garnish and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Ensure chicken cubes are uniformly sized for even cooking.
  • Do not overbake to prevent dryness; use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature.
  • Butter adds flavor and moisture; do not skip it for best results.
  • The cayenne and red pepper flakes add mild heat but can be adjusted or omitted for less spice.
  • These bites pair well with rice, salad, or steamed vegetables.