One-Pan Cowboy Butter Chicken (Bold, Juicy & Easy)
One-Pan Cowboy Butter Chicken is a flavor-packed dish made with tender chicken cooked in a rich, buttery sauce loaded with garlic, herbs, and a little kick of spice. Everything comes together in one pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights while still tasting like a restaurant-quality meal.
Ingredients
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1½ lbs chicken thighs or chicken breasts
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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½ teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
Cowboy Butter Sauce
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½ cup unsalted butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon dried parsley
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½ teaspoon dried thyme
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¼–½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Garnish
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Fresh parsley
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Lemon wedges
Preparation
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Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
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Reduce heat to medium. In the same pan, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
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Return chicken to the pan and spoon sauce over it.
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Simmer for 8–10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and coated in the sauce.
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Garnish and serve hot.
Tips & FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts?
Yes, but thighs stay juicier. If using breasts, don’t overcook.
What should I serve with this?
Mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.
Can I make it milder?
Simply leave out the red pepper flakes.
This One-Pan Cowboy Butter Chicken is rich, zesty, and unbelievably easy—big flavor with minimal cleanup