Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet – A Flavorful Comfort Dish You’ll Crave

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, buttery sauce. Inspired by the famous Texas Roadhouse flavors, this recipe is a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and slightly tangy notes. It is simple enough to prepare on a weeknight yet impressive enough to serve for a family gathering or dinner with friends.

One of the standout qualities of this dish is its versatility. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread, the butter-infused sauce ties everything together beautifully. The skillet preparation not only makes cooking easy but also ensures that the chicken stays juicy and packed with flavor. This dish captures the essence of comfort food while still feeling special and indulgent.

If you love restaurant-inspired meals that are both approachable and satisfying, this butter chicken skillet will quickly become a household favorite.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are used for this recipe because they cook evenly and absorb the buttery sauce perfectly.

Butter – The star of the dish, butter adds richness and depth, creating the silky sauce that coats the chicken.

Olive Oil – Used alongside butter to prevent it from burning while searing the chicken.

Garlic – Fresh garlic adds a strong aromatic base that enhances the buttery sauce with bold flavor.

Paprika – Adds a mild smokiness and a hint of color to the chicken.

Cayenne Pepper – Provides a gentle heat that balances the richness of the butter.

Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds earthy notes to the dish.

Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.

Chicken Broth – Used to deglaze the skillet and create a flavorful foundation for the sauce.

Heavy Cream – Brings creaminess to the sauce, making it luscious and indulgent.

Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of freshness and color when sprinkled over the finished dish.

Directions

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet with olive oil and butter, then sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

In the same skillet, melt additional butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor. Slowly stir in heavy cream, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the buttery sauce over each piece. Let it simmer gently until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender.

Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley over the top before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables, soaking up the creamy, buttery sauce with every bite.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, while cooking takes 25–30 minutes. In total, you can have this comforting skillet meal ready in approximately 40 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or cream to keep the sauce smooth. Avoid microwaving for too long as it may cause the sauce to separate.

Variations and Customizations

Spicy Kick – Add extra cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy more heat.

Cheesy Upgrade – Stir in shredded Parmesan or mozzarella into the sauce for a richer, cheesier flavor.

Vegetable Boost – Include spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers in the skillet for added nutrition and texture.

Herb Twist – Swap Italian seasoning with fresh dill, rosemary, or tarragon for a different herbal note.

Citrus Brightness – Add a splash of lemon juice to balance the richness with fresh acidity.

Protein Swap – Replace chicken breasts with chicken thighs, shrimp, or even tofu for a different take.

Low-Carb Option – Serve the dish over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are an excellent alternative and remain juicy throughout cooking.

Do I need to use heavy cream?

Heavy cream gives the best texture, but half-and-half can be used for a lighter sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce in advance, then reheat gently before serving.

What can I serve with this skillet dish?

It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Can I freeze Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet?

It is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly to maintain the sauce’s texture.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Allow the sauce to simmer longer, or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The spice level is mild, but you can adjust by reducing or increasing the cayenne pepper.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but reduce cooking time and focus on simmering the sauce so the chicken doesn’t dry out.

Conclusion

The Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is the perfect example of comfort food with a touch of indulgence. The buttery, creamy sauce paired with tender chicken creates a meal that is satisfying yet simple to prepare. Its versatility makes it suitable for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or special occasions. With endless possibilities for customization, this dish can easily be tailored to your taste preferences, making it a recipe you will return to time and time again.

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