Name: Cowboy Butter Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 23 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into vertical strips (about ½ -¾ inch thick); ¼ cup (64 g) soy sauce; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for marinade); ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 ½ pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered (depending on size); 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for sautéing potatoes); Salt and pepper, to taste; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided: 1 tbsp for marinade, 1 tbsp for potatoes, 1 tbsp for chicken); 6 tablespoons cowboy butter; Parsley, chopped for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 54 reviews

If you are craving a dish that combines juicy chicken, golden potatoes, and a rich, flavorful butter sauce all in one skillet, then my Cowboy Butter Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe is a delightful balance of tender marinated chicken strips sautéed to perfection alongside perfectly cooked baby potatoes, all brought together by the irresistible richness of cowboy butter. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to impress anyone at your table. Trust me, once you try this, it will become one of your favorite go-to meals!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A wooden cutting board holds many small yellow potatoes that are cut in half, showing smooth, pale yellow insides and light brown skin with small specks. On the right side of the board, there is a large silver knife with scratches on the blade. The cutting board is set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this dish shine. Each element plays a crucial role in giving this Cowboy Butter Chicken and Potatoes Recipe its signature taste and texture, from the savory marinade to the creamy butter that brings it all together.

1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into vertical strips about ½ to ¾ inch thick for quick and even cooking.
¼ cup soy sauce: Adds a savory umami depth to the chicken marinade.
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, divided: Used for marinating and sautéing to create a rich, golden crust.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish without overwhelming it.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: A subtle spice to balance the saltiness.
1 ½ pounds baby potatoes: Halved or quartered depending on size, they become tender and golden with boiling and sautéing.
6 tablespoons cowboy butter: The star ingredient that melts into the chicken and potatoes, imparting a buttery, garlicky, herbaceous kick.
Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust seasoning perfectly at the end.
Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant color and a hint of herbal brightness.

How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the chicken strips with soy sauce, one tablespoon of olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This marinade infuses the chicken with a deep savory note while keeping it juicy during cooking. Let it sit as you prepare the potatoes to maximize flavor absorption without extra effort.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the baby potatoes. Boil them just until lightly tender—about 8 to 10 minutes—depending on their size. This ensures they cook through while still holding their shape when sautéed later for that golden crisp exterior.

Step 3: Sauté the Potatoes

Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully add the drained potatoes. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, flipping halfway through, so each side turns an irresistible golden brown and becomes fork-tender. Transfer them to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm, preserving that perfect texture.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Place the marinated chicken strips in a single layer—avoid overcrowding to allow an even sear. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until beautifully browned and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F). Reserving the marinade, you’ll pour it in shortly for a flavorful glaze.

Step 5: Create the Sauce and Combine

Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet with the chicken. Let it simmer until reduced by half, intensifying those flavors and forming a tantalizing sauce. Stir in the sautéed potatoes and generous cubes of cowboy butter. Toss everything together, allowing the butter to melt and coat every piece for about 2 to 3 minutes. Finish with a final seasoning of salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy all the warm, comforting flavors at their peak.

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

A white round plate filled with two main layers: the bottom layer has small golden brown roasted potatoes with a slightly crispy texture, some cut in halves showing a soft yellow inside; the top layer has four pieces of golden brown cooked chicken with a light crispy outer skin, sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs and red pepper flakes. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a beige cloth napkin partially visible on the side and two forks with dark wooden handles at the bottom left. A small wooden bowl of crushed red pepper flakes and some fresh green parsley leaves are seen in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While the chopped parsley adds delightful freshness, feel free to experiment with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or some finely grated Parmesan for an extra dimension. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving is an excellent way to brighten up the rich buttery sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish is wonderfully comforting on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some steamed seasonal vegetables gives a refreshing balance. For heartier meals, cornbread or warm crusty bread are perfect to soak up every last bit of that cowboy butter sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic touch, serve the chicken and potatoes family-style on a wooden board or cast iron skillet placed right on the table. If you’re aiming for a bit more elegance, plate the chicken strips atop a bed of the buttery potatoes and drizzle any remaining sauce artistically around the edges. Adding a small ramekin of extra cowboy butter on the side is always a crowd-pleaser too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the Cowboy Butter Chicken and Potatoes Recipe even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well if you want to save portions for future meals. Cool completely, place in freezer-safe containers, and store for up to three months. Just be aware that potatoes may slightly soften after thawing and reheating but remain tasty.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to retain crispness in the potatoes and warmth throughout the chicken. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it might make the butter sauce separate or potatoes mushy. Adding a pat of fresh cowboy butter during reheating will refresh the flavor beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly, you can also use thighs for a juicier, slightly richer flavor. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

What exactly is cowboy butter?

Cowboy butter is a savory butter blend typically made with garlic, herbs, and spices. It adds a bold, zesty flavor that elevates simple dishes like this chicken and potatoes recipe to something spectacular and rustic.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free (tamari is a great alternative) and double-check the ingredients of the cowboy butter you use or prepare your own with safe ingredients.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked perfectly?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F. Alternatively, cut into a piece; it should be opaque with clear juices.

Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?

You can boil and sauté the potatoes earlier and keep them warm, plus marinade the chicken in advance. However, for the best texture and flavor, cook the chicken close to serving time and toss everything together just before eating.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly satisfying about a dish that brings comfort, flavor, and simplicity together, and this Cowboy Butter Chicken and Potatoes Recipe does just that in a skillet full of goodness. It’s an easy recipe that delivers big on taste and family-friendly appeal, perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation!