Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, buttery sauce that’s full of flavor. The skillet sizzles with a mix of spices,…
Tip: save now, cook later.Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, buttery sauce that’s full of flavor. The skillet sizzles with a mix of spices, creamy butter, and just the right amount of herbs, creating a comforting meal that’s sure to please any appetite. It’s a great way to enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner right at home, with simple ingredients coming together in a delicious, saucy skillet.
I love making this skillet when I want something that feels special but doesn’t take forever to cook. The buttery sauce is my favorite part – it’s so smooth and coats the chicken perfectly, making each bite super tasty. You can easily adjust the spice level to your taste, and I like to add a little extra garlic or a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick. It always feels like a treat when this is cooking on the stove.
One of my favorite ways to serve this dish is over steamed rice or alongside some warm bread to soak up the buttery sauce. It’s also great with a side of roasted veggies or a fresh salad to balance things out. This skillet has quickly become a family favorite in my home because it’s ready in no time and tastes like you spent hours on it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer thighs because they stay juicy, but breasts work well too. Just watch cooking time to avoid drying out.
Butter: Real unsalted butter gives the sauce its creamy, rich flavor. If you want a lighter option, use a mix of butter and olive oil.
Spices: Smoked paprika and chili powder bring warmth and depth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a mild chili powder can work.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce smooth and rich. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or coconut milk, but the sauce will be less thick.
Chicken Broth: Adds flavor and thins the sauce slightly. Vegetable broth is a good substitute for a different twist.
Worcestershire Sauce: Optional but adds savory complexity. If you don’t have it, a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of ground mustard adds some bite.
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken Stays Tender and Coated in Sauce?
To get juicy chicken and a thick, buttery sauce, follow these tips:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps it brown nicely.
- Sear the chicken chunks in a hot skillet without crowding them. Browning locks in flavor.
- Don’t cook chicken fully when searing—finish cooking it gently in the sauce to keep it tender.
- Use the same skillet for the sauce to capture all the browned bits for richer flavor.
- Simmer the sauce gently after adding cream and broth so it thickens without separating.
- Coat the chicken well in the sauce and cook just until done to prevent drying out.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast-iron skillet – perfect for even heat and browning the chicken beautifully.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – safe for your skillet and helps scrape up tasty bits.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to get your spices and liquids just right.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for cutting the chicken evenly into chunks.
- Whisk – handy for mixing the sauce smoothly without lumps.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp for a quicker, seafood twist that cooks fast and stays tender.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and a bit of sweetness.
- Mix in a sprinkle of smoked cheddar or Parmesan at the end for a cheesy, rich finish.
- Boost the heat with cayenne pepper or chipotle powder if you like spicy dishes.
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra depth)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, making the total time about 25 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels so they brown nicely. Season all sides evenly with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and if you like a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until melted and hot. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, browning well but not cooking all the way through. Once browned, set the chicken aside.
3. Make the Butter Garlic Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. When melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits — this adds great flavor.
4. Add Cream and Finish Cooking:
Whisk in the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens a bit. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat all the pieces with the buttery sauce. Continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is creamy.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top to add a fresh burst of color and flavor. Serve right away with mashed potatoes, rice, or warm bread to soak up all that delicious buttery sauce. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method for faster thawing. Pat the chicken dry to get a good sear.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken up to a day in advance. Store separately in airtight containers in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth.
What Can I Serve With Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, white or brown rice, or warm crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce. Roasted vegetables or a side salad also make great accompaniments.