easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

The first time I made this skillet butter chicken, I was coming home late from work, drained and craving comfort food that didn’t involve ordering takeout again. I remembered a trip to Texas Roadhouse where I had something rich, buttery, and packed with flavor, and I thought—why not recreate that vibe at home? What resulted was a creamy, flavorful dish that took less than 30 minutes to put together and had everyone licking their plates clean.

This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet easy sheet pan dinner (though we’re using a skillet here) hits all the right notes—quick to prepare, packed with bold flavors, and surprisingly light compared to many creamy dishes. It’s also easily adjustable depending on what you have on hand, making it a perfect staple for quick and healthy meals.

Why This Recipe is Special

This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is the kind of meal you make when you want restaurant-quality food without the cost, wait, or mystery ingredients. Unlike traditional butter chicken that leans toward Indian spices and tomato bases, this version nods to American-style comfort food with a creamy, buttery sauce, smoky spices, and just enough garlic and onion flavor to wake up your taste buds.

The simplicity makes it a win for beginner cooks, while the flavor depth means you’ll come back to it again and again. Plus, it only takes one pan, so cleanup is a breeze.

Ingredients and Preparation

Chicken breasts
Lean and protein-rich, they are the base of the dish. Their mild flavor soaks up spices beautifully and they cook quickly. You can also use chicken thighs for juicier results or tofu for a vegetarian twist.

Butter
This brings richness and depth. We use it twice—once for searing the chicken, and again to enrich the sauce. Unsalted butter is best so you can control the salt.

Olive oil
Helps prevent the butter from burning during the initial sear and adds healthy fats. Canola or avocado oil works fine too.

Garlic powder and onion powder
These pantry staples add aromatic warmth and depth without requiring chopping. Fresh garlic or onion can be used, but add them early to soften properly.

Smoked paprika
Brings a hint of smokiness that sets this dish apart. Regular paprika works too, but won’t have the same depth.

Salt and black pepper
Essential for balancing flavors.

Chicken broth
This creates the base of the sauce and adds a savory backbone. Vegetable broth can be substituted for a lighter version.

Heavy cream
The hero of the sauce, it gives the dish that velvety finish. For a healthier take, use half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk.

Grated Parmesan cheese
Adds umami and helps thicken the sauce. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast offers a solid alternative.

Fresh parsley
Optional garnish, but it brightens the dish with color and a fresh finish. Try chopped basil or chives if you prefer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
Start by heating olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This combo prevents the butter from burning and builds a flavorful base.

Step 2
While the skillet heats, season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.

Step 3
Add the chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Sear it until golden brown on all sides and fully cooked through, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. To check doneness, cut one piece open—it should be white all the way through, with no pink.

Step 4
Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet (do not clean it!), add the remaining two tablespoons of butter. Let it melt to absorb all the browned bits left from the chicken—that’s flavor gold.

Step 5
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce for 2 to 3 minutes. This intensifies the savory flavor and forms the sauce base.

Step 6
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring as the sauce thickens and turns creamy, which takes about 3 to 4 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.

Step 7
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss it in the creamy sauce and let everything simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 8
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and serve right away while everything’s warm and silky.

Beginner Tips and Notes

If your chicken starts to brown too quickly, turn the heat down and add a splash of broth to prevent burning. On the flip side, if the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes or add a little extra Parmesan.

Use pre-chopped chicken or even rotisserie chicken for faster prep. If you don’t have smoked paprika, a pinch of chili powder can offer a different kind of kick.

For tools, a nonstick skillet makes cleanup easier, but cast iron adds a bit more sear flavor. If you don’t have a whisk, a spoon works fine for stirring the sauce—just be gentle to avoid splashing.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet with roasted vegetables, a green salad, or fluffy mashed potatoes. For something lighter, try quinoa or cauliflower rice.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s texture.

Conclusion

There’s something deeply satisfying about a one-skillet meal that feels like it came from a restaurant but was cooked in your own kitchen. This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet quick and healthy meal delivers on flavor, ease, and comfort—perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without stress.

If you give this buttery skillet chicken a try, I’d love to hear how it went! Drop your comments below—did you add your own twist? Did it become a family favorite? Let’s cook and grow together!

FAQ About Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

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