Looking for a bold and buttery twist on classic wings? This cowboy butter chicken wings recipe combines crispy, golden wings with a rich, garlicky cowboy butter sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Inspired by steakhouse cowboy butter — a zesty blend of melted butter, lemon, garlic, Dijon mustard, and herbs — this recipe takes your wings to the next level. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, summer BBQ, or just craving something indulgent, these wings will quickly become your go-to favorite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Wings:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, split and tips removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
For the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust for spice)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven (or Air Fryer):
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top for even crisping. - Prepare the Wings:
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Toss them in olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder until evenly coated. - Bake or Air Fry the Wings:
- Oven: Arrange wings on the rack and bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Air Fryer: Cook in batches for 20–25 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
While the wings cook, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, parsley, red pepper flakes, paprika, and cayenne. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste. - Coat the Wings:
Once wings are done, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the cowboy butter sauce over the wings and toss until fully coated. - Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges for a fresh touch. Serve hot and dig in!
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/4 of recipe) |
| Calories | 360 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Fat | 27 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
Tips & Variations
- Grill It: For smoky flavor, grill the wings over medium heat for 20–25 minutes, turning often.
- Make It Spicier: Add more cayenne or hot sauce to the cowboy butter for extra kick.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Try thyme, rosemary, or chives in place of parsley for a unique twist.
- Dipping Option: Reserve a bit of cowboy butter sauce for dipping! It’s amazing with fries or veggies.
- Make It Keto-Friendly: Skip the Dijon mustard and lemon juice for an ultra-low-carb version.
Serving Suggestions
These cowboy butter chicken wings are perfect for any occasion. Serve them as:
- Appetizers for parties or game nights
- Main dish with roasted potatoes or corn on the cob
- BBQ favorite paired with coleslaw or cornbread
- Snack platter alongside celery sticks and ranch dressing
FAQs
1. What is cowboy butter?
Cowboy butter is a savory, spicy compound butter made with garlic, mustard, lemon juice, and herbs — often used to top steaks or grilled meats.
2. Can I use frozen wings?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them completely dry before seasoning and cooking.
3. Can I make cowboy butter in advance?
Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
4. How do I make these wings extra crispy?
Dry the wings thoroughly and bake on a wire rack. For ultra-crispiness, sprinkle a bit of baking powder (not soda) before baking.
Conclusion
This cowboy butter chicken wings recipe is the ultimate blend of buttery richness and zesty spice — crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of flavor in every bite. Whether baked, grilled, or air-fried, these wings bring a taste of the Wild West right to your kitchen. Try them once, and they’ll quickly become a crowd favorite at any gathering.
