Name: Creamy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet in Just 20 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs for added moisture); 2 tablespoons olive oil (can be swapped with butter); 1 medium yellow onion (diced, can substitute white or red onion); 3 cloves garlic (minced, fresh works best); 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 1 cup heavy cream (can substitute half-and-half); 0.5 cup unsalted butter (reduce additional salt if using salted butter); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular sweet paprika); 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste or omit); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

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The aroma wafting through my kitchen instantly transported me to my favorite dining spot—a bustling Texas Roadhouse, where every dish is a hug in a bowl. Welcome to the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet, a creamy weeknight dinner that packs the same comforting spirit as the restaurant’s signature meals. With tender chicken enveloped in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, this delightful recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but can also be whipped up in just 20 minutes! Perfect for those evenings when you crave something homemade yet nourishing, it’s a dish that marries convenience with flavor. So, are you ready to bring the warm vibes of Texas Roadhouse into your home? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Butter Chicken Skillet Special?

Quick and Easy: With a prep and cook time of just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing taste.

Creamy Richness: Silky heavy cream and savory butter blend with garlic, creating a sauce that lovingly envelops tender chicken.

Restaurant Flavor: Recreating the beloved Texas Roadhouse experience at home means you’ll enjoy hearty comfort food anytime.

Versatile Options: Customize it by adding shrimp or your favorite veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Crowd Favorite: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, your loved ones will be raving about this meal. Pair it with some garlic bread or a fresh green salad for an unforgettable feast!

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this comforting, creamy dish come to life!

For the Chicken

Chicken Breasts – The foundation of the meal; tender and perfect for soaking up the rich sauce. Substitute with chicken thighs for added moisture.

For the Sauce

Olive Oil – Essential for searing; can be swapped with butter for an extra flavor boost.
Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth while sautéing; feel free to use white or red onion in a pinch.
Garlic – Necessary for aromatic flavor; fresh garlic shines brighter than powdered versions.
Chicken Broth – Enhances the savory note of the sauce; vegetable broth provides a lighter alternative.
Heavy Cream – Brings creaminess to the dish; substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce option.
Unsalted Butter – Deepens the creamy texture of the sauce; if using salted butter, reduce additional salt in the dish.
Smoked Paprika – Delivers a hint of smokiness; regular sweet paprika is a great substitute if preferred.
Cayenne Pepper – Introduces a delightful kick; adjust based on your sensitivity to spice or omit for a milder flavor.
Fresh Parsley – Adds a touch of color and freshness; can be replaced with herbs like cilantro or chives for a different twist.

For Garnish

Chopped Fresh Parsley – Brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color right before serving.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear when cooked. Season the pieces generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, allowing the spices to infuse the chicken with flavor as you prepare for cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large cast-iron skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the seasoned chicken in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s safe to serve.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, reduce the heat to medium and add 1 diced yellow onion to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, cooking for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant, creating a flavorful base for your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.

Step 4: Deglaze the Skillet
Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan with a wooden spoon. This process, known as deglazing, enhances the sauce’s flavor profile. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the broth to incorporate with the sautéed vegetables for about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and add ½ cup of unsalted butter to the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5–8 minutes, stirring often until the butter melts completely and the sauce thickens slightly. Keep an eye on it to prevent boiling, as you want a silky texture for your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.

Step 6: Add Seasonings
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper, adjusting the heat to your preference. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed. This step will enhance the flavor, ensuring the sauce wraps around the chicken beautifully.

Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Return the seared chicken pieces to the skillet and stir well to coat them in the creamy sauce. Allow it to simmer on low heat for around 3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through and infused with the rich, buttery sauce, creating the heartwarming essence of your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley over the dish, adding a vibrant touch before serving. Plate your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet hot, and consider enjoying it with steamed rice, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad to complete this comforting meal!

Make Ahead Options

Good news for busy home cooks! The Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a meal prep dream. You can marinate the cubed chicken in your seasonings up to 24 hours ahead; this enhances flavor and saves you time on cook day. Additionally, you can sauté the onions and garlic, then refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to finish the dish, simply deglaze your skillet, mix in the cream and butter, and return the marinated chicken to the pan, cooking until heated through. This way, you’ll enjoy the same creamy, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort on hectic weeknights!

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this recipe to delight your palate!

Seafood Twist: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood version that’s quick to prepare and adds a lovely sweetness!
Shrimp cooks rapidly, soaking up the buttery garlic sauce beautifully, providing a delightful twist to the original dish.
Veggie Power: Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the skillet for extra nutrition and color.
Not only does this enhance the dish with added vitamins, but it also brings texture and a beautiful visual appeal to your meal.
Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your spicy preference—omit it for a milder version or double it for a fiery kick!
Personalizing heat levels lets you cater this comfort dish perfectly to your taste.
Low-Cal Option: Use a low-calorie cream alternative or Greek yogurt to lighten up the sauce while keeping it creamy and flavorful.
You’ll maintain deliciousness while enjoying a guilt-free indulgence—now that’s a win!
Herb Swap: Switch fresh parsley for fresh cilantro or chives to infuse a different flavor profile into your skillet.
Each herb brings its unique flair to the dish, allowing you to explore exciting culinary dimensions.
Flavor Boost: Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of lemon juice to the creamy sauce for an unexpected tang.
These additions can elevate the buttery richness, adding complexity and brightness to each bite.
Pasta Integrations: Stir cooked pasta into the skillet just before serving for a heartier version that transforms it into a creamy pasta dish.
This variation is perfect for pasta lovers who crave a filling twist alongside the beloved chicken flavors!

For more incredible ideas, don’t miss out on our Pesto Chicken Broccoli or Honey Garlic Chicken for more delightful recipes to try!

Expert Tips for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

• Pat Dry Chicken: Ensure chicken is thoroughly dried before searing to achieve that irresistible golden crust.

• Moderate Heat: Keep the heat on medium when simmering the sauce. A vigorous boil can curdle the cream, spoiling your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.

• Thickness Adjustment: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).

• Customize Your Spice: Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your personal heat preference. You can always add more later, but it’s harder to lessen the spice once added!

• Substitution Tips: If you’re short on ingredients, know that chicken thighs work just as well as breasts for juicy results, and butter can be substituted with more olive oil for a lighter option.

How to Store and Freeze Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy texture.

Freezer: If you’d like to freeze the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To maintain the creamy consistency, reheat your dish slowly on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally, and add a little water or cream if needed to keep the sauce silky.

Serving: Once reheated, serve with fresh garnishes or alongside crusty bread or rice for a comforting meal that feels like it was just made!

What to Serve with Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

Set the stage for a delightful dining experience by pairing this creamy skillet dish with sides that elevate its comforting flavors.

Garlic Bread: The warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the rich, buttery sauce while adding a delicious aroma to your meal.
Steamed Rice: Fluffy rice provides a neutral base, allowing the vibrant flavors of the buttery sauce to shine through, creating a satisfying combined bite.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful veggies add crunch and nutrients, balancing the creamy chicken with a hint of earthy sweetness—try bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for variety!
Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette introduces a refreshing contrast to the richness. The crunch cuts through the comfort beautifully.
Coleslaw: This tangy, crunchy side offers a delightful contrast to the creamy chicken, brightening each bite with vibrant flavors and textures.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide a hearty, flavorful side that complements the dish perfectly while adding a comforting crunch.
Wine Pairing: A chilled chardonnay or a light pinot grigio pairs beautifully, enhancing the meal with a touch of sweetness that complements the creamy sauce.
Dessert Option: To finish on a sweet note, consider serving chocolate mousse or a classic key lime pie—the balanced flavors close the meal on a high note.

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! The recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts as they tenderize beautifully and soak up the rich flavors of the sauce. However, you can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier bite. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a minute or two longer to cook through.

How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
You can store any leftovers of this delicious Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to dig in again, simply reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or cream to refresh the creamy sauce and keep it from drying out.

Can I freeze the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet?
Yes, you can! To freeze this dish, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on low, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

What if my sauce is too thin?
Very! If your sauce is thinner than you’d like, don’t worry. A great way to thicken it is to make a cornstarch slurry. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth, then stir it into the simmering sauce. Let it cook for a couple of minutes, and it should thicken nicely.

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, or even a low-calorie cream alternative. Additionally, if you need to cater to allergies, ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free if necessary, and feel free to swap out the butter for olive oil if dairy is a concern. Just pay attention to spices if you’re concerned about heat!

How can I tell if my chicken is cooked properly?
Very simple! The best way to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, look for the chicken to be golden brown with no pink juices running when cut into. This will ensure it’s safe and juicy!