Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe

Introduction

This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet recipe brings the beloved restaurant flavor home for an easy weeknight dinner. Tender chicken simmers in a rich, creamy sauce with classic seasonings, all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup. Serve this comforting skillet dish with sides like Honey Glazed Carrots or Roasted Root Vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet delivers rich, creamy comfort with tender chicken pieces bathed in a savory sauce that’s perfect for soaking up with crusty bread.

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes thanks to its simplified skillet method.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken

Cut 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 2 — Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 3 — Sauté the Aromatics

Reduce the heat to medium and add 1 diced yellow onion to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4 — Create the Sauce Base

Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This deglazing step adds incredible depth of flavor to your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.

Step 5 — Add Cream and Butter

Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of unsalted butter, cut into tablespoons. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly until the butter is fully melted and incorporated. Do not let the sauce boil vigorously.

Step 6 — Incorporate Seasonings

Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference), and 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should be rich and coat the back of a spoon.

Step 7 — Simmer to Thicken

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce. Let the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet simmer for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the chicken is heated through.

Step 8 — Final Adjustments and Garnish

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For extra freshness, stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley right before serving. The sauce should be creamy and velvety, not overly thick.

Step 9 — Serve Immediately

Serve your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet hot directly from the skillet. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious butter sauce.

Nutritional Information

Calories	520
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fat	38g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream — Cuts fat while adding tangy creaminess.
• Chicken breast instead of thighs — Leaner protein with a lighter texture.
• Coconut milk instead of dairy — Dairy-free option with subtle tropical notes.
• Cauliflower rice instead of white rice — Low-carb swap that soaks up the sauce well.
• Low-sodium chicken broth — Reduces salt without sacrificing savory depth.
• Turkey or plant-based protein — Alternative proteins for variety or dietary needs.
• Gluten-free flour or cornstarch — Thickens sauce safely for gluten-free diets.
• Light butter or olive oil — Trims saturated fat while maintaining richness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with fluffy white rice or warm naan bread to soak up the rich, creamy sauce of your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli for a balanced meal.
• Perfect for casual weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings where comfort food is a crowd-pleaser.
• Ideal for meal prep; store portions in airtight containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Elevate presentation by garnishing with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of cream just before serving.
• Great for game day spreads or family celebrations, offering a hearty, flavorful centerpiece dish.

This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is versatile enough for any occasion, delivering restaurant-quality flavor right at home.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold butter straight from the fridge. Fix: Always bring butter to room temperature so it blends smoothly into the sauce.
• Mistake: Overcooking the chicken, making it tough. Fix: Sear chicken just until 165°F internal temperature, then let it rest.
• Mistake: Adding garlic too early, causing it to burn. Fix: Sauté garlic for only 30–60 seconds before adding liquids.
• Mistake: Skipping the deglazing step after browning chicken. Fix: Use broth or wine to scrape up the flavorful browned bits from the skillet.
• Mistake: Using low-fat butter or margarine. Fix: Stick with full-fat, unsalted butter for authentic richness and flavor.
• Mistake: Rushing the sauce reduction. Fix: Simmer sauce gently until it thickens naturally and coats the back of a spoon.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the skillet when searing. Fix: Cook chicken in batches to ensure a proper golden-brown crust.
• Mistake: Not seasoning the chicken adequately before cooking. Fix: Generously season chicken with salt, pepper, and spices at least 15 minutes ahead.
• Mistake: Substituting heavy cream with milk. Fix: Use heavy cream to prevent the sauce from curdling and to achieve a luxurious texture.
• Mistake: Adding fresh herbs at the beginning of cooking. Fix: Stir in delicate herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving to preserve their freshness.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

Always allow your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet to cool to room temperature before storing to maintain quality and prevent condensation.

Conclusion

This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. We hope you love this comforting dish as much as we do! Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes like our Mom’s Old Fashioned Swedish Apple Cake Recipe.

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FAQs

What sides pair well with Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet?

This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. These sides complement the rich, creamy sauce and make for a complete, satisfying meal.

Can I make this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to refresh the sauce.

How can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?

You can easily control the heat in your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet. For a milder dish, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For more spice, add extra cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to taste.