Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

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When I first made this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet, I wasn’t prepared for how quickly it would become one of my all-time favorites. The golden sear on each tender bite of chicken, smothered in a rich, buttery, peppery sauce, instantly reminded me of that unmistakable flavor you crave at your favorite steakhouse. There’s a hint of heat, a splash of creamy indulgence, and enough garlic to make your kitchen smell like heaven.

I love how this dish feels fancy but comes together in one skillet without any fuss. It’s perfect for those weeknights when I want comfort food without spending hours at the stove. Serve it over fluffy mashed potatoes, rice, or scoop it straight with warm bread—whatever route you take, you’re in for something incredibly satisfying.

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Why You’ll Love This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

• Restaurant-level flavor at home: It truly rivals the skillet dishes from popular chains.
• Quick and easy: Done in under 30 minutes, all in one pan.
• Buttery, garlicky perfection: A rich, seasoned sauce that hugs every bite.
• Family favorite: Picky eaters? Not here. Everyone comes back for seconds.
• Versatile serving options: From rice to roasted veggies, it pairs with almost anything.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet?

For this recipe, I’ve found that boneless, skinless chicken breasts work beautifully—they cook quickly, get that gorgeous sear, and stay tender when simmered in the buttery sauce. If you prefer something juicier, boneless chicken thighs are a great alternative. They bring a bit more flavor and can stand up well to the heat without drying out.

The key is cutting the chicken into even, bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and develop a golden crust on all sides. Whether you go with white or dark meat, make sure to pat the chicken dry before searing for the best caramelization.

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Options for Substitutions

• Butter: You can substitute with ghee for a deeper, nutty flavor or use a vegan butter if you’re avoiding dairy.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder works in a pinch (use about ½ teaspoon per clove).
• Heavy Cream: Want to lighten it up? Try half and half or even evaporated milk for a creamier texture with fewer calories.
• Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a lovely depth, but regular sweet paprika works too. Add a pinch of cayenne if you like heat.
• Chicken: Swap with shrimp or tofu for a twist, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
• Parsley Garnish: Basil, chives, or green onions make great alternatives for that final pop of freshness.

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Ingredients for This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: These are the star of the dish. Cut into chunks, they soak up the flavor and stay juicy inside with a golden crust outside.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for building a well-balanced flavor from the very first step. Season the chicken generously before searing.
• Garlic (fresh minced): Adds bold, aromatic depth to the butter sauce. Garlic is the soul of this skillet.
• Butter: This is what gives the dish its iconic richness. Go for unsalted so you can control the seasoning.
• Paprika (smoked or sweet): Lends a gentle heat and deep color to the sauce, enhancing the chicken’s flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: A touch of herbaceous flavor to round out the butter sauce. You can substitute with oregano or thyme if needed.
• Heavy Cream: Brings in silky smoothness to the sauce, binding all the flavors together and making it luxuriously creamy.
• Chicken Broth: Adds savory depth without overpowering the butter flavor. It also helps thin the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• Fresh Parsley: A bright, herby finish that cuts through the richness and adds color to the final dish.

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Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized chunks. Pat them dry with a paper towel—this helps them brown beautifully in the pan. Then season generously with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika for extra depth.

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Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of butter (or a little olive oil to prevent burning). Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Don’t crowd the pan—work in batches if needed. Let them cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes on one side to develop a golden crust, then flip and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

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Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter and toss in the minced garlic. Stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown too much, or it’ll turn bitter.

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Step 4: Make the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen all the flavorful bits. Add the remaining butter, heavy cream, more paprika, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly and turns a gorgeous golden color.

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Step 5: Return the Chicken to the Skillet

Toss the seared chicken back into the pan. Stir well to coat each piece in that luscious butter sauce. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld together and the chicken reheats fully.

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Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Turn off the heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, straight from the skillet for that cozy, homestyle presentation.

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How Long to Cook the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

The beauty of this dish is how quick it comes together:

• Searing the chicken: 6–8 minutes total, depending on the size of the pieces.
• Garlic and sauce prep: 5 minutes max.
• Simmering the chicken in the sauce: 2–3 minutes for everything to meld.

In total, you’re looking at about 15–20 minutes of active cooking time, making this a fast and flavorful weeknight dinner winner. With prep included, the whole recipe clocks in under 30 minutes—start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

• Dry your chicken well: Moisture on the surface prevents browning. Pat dry before seasoning.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Sear in batches if needed to avoid steaming the chicken.
• Use real butter: It’s the heart of this dish—unsalted is best so you can control the seasoning.
• Control the heat: Medium-high is ideal for searing, but lower it when making the sauce to prevent scorching.
• Deglaze thoroughly: Scrape up all those browned bits after adding broth—they’re flavor gold.
• Taste the sauce: Before adding the chicken back in, adjust salt, pepper, or seasoning if needed.
• Use a heavy skillet: Cast iron or stainless steel holds heat well and gives the best crust on your chicken.
• Garnish right before serving: Fresh parsley adds color and brightness—don’t skip it.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple skillet dish like this can take a wrong turn if you’re not careful. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breast dries out fast. As soon as it’s cooked through and lightly golden, remove it from the pan.
• Not Letting the Pan Get Hot Enough: If the pan isn’t hot, you won’t get that beautiful sear. Preheat it properly before adding chicken.
• Skipping the Deglazing Step: Those browned bits at the bottom? That’s where the flavor lives. Scrape them up when you add the broth!
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks fast—30 seconds is usually enough. Keep the heat moderate and stir constantly.
• Using Cold Cream: Adding cold cream to a hot skillet can cause it to curdle. Let it sit at room temp while you cook.
• Underseasoning: The richness of butter needs a balance of salt, pepper, and spices to shine—taste and adjust before serving.
• Not Resting the Chicken Before Adding Back: Giving the chicken a few minutes off the heat helps it stay juicy when returned to the sauce.
• Too Much Liquid: The sauce should coat, not drown the chicken. Let it simmer uncovered until it thickens nicely.

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What to Serve With Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

This skillet is indulgent and rich—perfectly complemented by sides that balance or soak up the creamy sauce. Here are eight great pairings:

1. Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes are a perfect base to spoon this butter-rich sauce over.

2. Buttered Egg Noodles

A classic comfort combo—these wide noodles soak up every drop.

3. Steamed White or Brown Rice

Simple, no-fuss, and lets the buttery chicken be the star.

4. Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls

For scooping, dipping, or swiping your plate clean—bread is a must.

5. Roasted Broccoli or Green Beans

The crisp, slightly charred veggies contrast beautifully with the rich sauce.

6. Cauliflower Mash

A low-carb option that’s creamy and mild, letting the chicken’s flavors shine.

7. Simple Side Salad

A tangy vinaigrette and fresh greens cut through the richness for balance.

8. Grilled Asparagus

Adds a pop of green, smoky flavor, and a bit of crunch to round out the meal.

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Storage Instructions

If you’ve got leftovers (lucky you), this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet keeps really well and tastes even better the next day. Here’s how to store it right:

• Refrigerator: Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and store for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: This dish can be frozen, though the cream may slightly change texture. Use a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• To Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave works too, but stir halfway through for even heating.

Avoid high heat while reheating to keep the sauce from separating or the chicken from drying out.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Here’s a general breakdown based on a standard serving (assuming 4 servings total from the recipe):

• Calories: 460
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugars: 1g
• Cholesterol: 145mg
• Sodium: 480mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients or serving sizes. For precise info, use a nutrition calculator with your preferred brands.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use rotisserie or leftover chicken. Just skip the searing step and add it when the sauce is ready. Let it warm through in the skillet to absorb the flavor.

2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half and half or even full-fat coconut milk for a non-dairy version. The sauce may be slightly thinner but still rich.

3. Is this dish spicy?

Not really. The paprika adds warmth but not heat. Want it spicier? Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce.

4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes—use a plant-based butter and coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute. Just keep in mind the flavor will change slightly but still be delicious.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure your skillet is big enough to handle the extra volume without overcrowding the chicken while searing.

6. What type of skillet is best to use?

A heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron or stainless steel is ideal for getting a great sear and holding even heat.

7. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Sure! Sauté mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers before adding the garlic and sauce ingredients. They’ll blend right in.

8. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes—just be sure your chicken broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

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Conclusion

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is everything I want in a weeknight dinner—fast, flavorful, and wildly satisfying. The buttery garlic sauce clings to juicy chicken bites, and the whole dish feels like something you’d order at a steakhouse, but it’s made with love at home. It’s become one of those go-to meals I keep coming back to, whether I’m feeding the family or indulging in a solo comfort night.

If you’re craving something rich, quick, and restaurant-worthy, this is your skillet savior. Make it once, and it’ll earn a permanent spot in your rotation.

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