Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken pieces smothered in a rich, buttery sauce. The scents of garlic, herbs, and a touch of spice fill the kitchen, making it impossible to wait for dinner. It’s the kind of meal that feels warm and satisfying, perfect for any night when you want something flavorful and easy to put together.
I love how straightforward this skillet recipe is, letting the buttery sauce do most of the work while keeping the chicken juicy and full of flavor. I usually toss in a handful of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon to brighten it up just a little, and it always impresses. It’s one of those dishes where you can keep it simple or add your own twist, and either way, it turns out great.
For me, the best way to enjoy this butter chicken skillet is with a side of fluffy mashed potatoes or a warm, crusty bread that soaks up every bit of that delicious sauce. It’s a real crowd-pleaser at the dinner table, and I find it’s especially nice to serve when I want to treat myself without too much fuss in the kitchen. This dish always brings a little Texas Roadhouse magic right to my own home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier results, but breasts work fine too. Just avoid overcooking to keep meat tender. If you want a lighter option, turkey breast pieces can also be used.
Butter: Butter is the star here, giving the sauce its rich, creamy flavor. Use unsalted to control salt levels. If dairy-free, try vegan butter or olive oil, though it will change the taste slightly.
Heavy Cream: This adds smoothness to the sauce. You could swap with half-and-half or coconut cream for dairy-free, but the sauce will be less thick or have a coconut note.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and paprika create warmth and depth. If you miss paprika, smoked paprika or chili powder can add a nice twist. Italian seasoning can be replaced with dried thyme or oregano.
Worcestershire Sauce & Dijon Mustard: Worcestershire adds umami and a subtle tang, while mustard brightens the sauce. If you don’t have them, a splash of soy sauce (for umami) and a pinch of mustard powder are good alternatives.
How Do You Make the Chicken Tender and the Sauce Smooth?
Keeping chicken tender and creating a creamy sauce are the keys here:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning – this helps it brown nicely instead of steaming.
- Cook chicken over medium-high heat in one layer, avoiding crowding the pan, so it forms a golden crust and stays juicy.
- Don’t rush the garlic in butter—sauté just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
- When adding broth and cream, scrape the pan to collect flavor bits, then simmer gently to thicken without boiling hard.
- Return chicken to sauce last, simmer only a few minutes so the sauce clings but chicken doesn’t dry out.
This technique makes the chicken flavorful and juicy, and the sauce glossy, creamy, and smooth.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast iron skillet – great for even heat and helps brown chicken beautifully.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – lets you stir the sauce without scratching your pan.
- Measuring spoons and cups – handy to get seasoning and liquids just right.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for cutting chicken into even pieces.
- Tongs – makes flipping and handling chicken easy and safe.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp – it cooks quickly and tastes great with the buttery sauce.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers – these give a nice texture and extra flavor.
- Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika – for a little heat and smoky depth.
- Top with shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese just before serving – adds creaminess and a cheesy twist.
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-2 inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for tanginess)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried parsley
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
To Serve:
- Mashed potatoes or steamed rice
Time Needed
This dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, for a total of around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights but feels special enough for guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Season the Chicken
First, pat your chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. In a bowl, sprinkle the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss the chicken gently so all pieces get an even coating of these delicious seasonings.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side until the chicken turns golden brown and is cooked through. Use tongs to flip them carefully. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Butter Garlic Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet and let it melt. Then add the minced garlic, sautéing gently for about 1 minute until you can smell its wonderful aroma—be careful not to let it brown or burn.
4. Add the Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any tasty browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard (if using), and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens just a little.
5. Return Chicken and Finish Cooking
Put the chicken pieces back into the skillet, turning them so they get fully coated in that rich butter sauce. Let everything cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors and warm the chicken through.
6. Season and Garnish
Taste the sauce, and if needed, add a little more salt or pepper. Finish by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley on top for a lovely fresh touch and color.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your butter chicken skillet with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy steamed rice on the side. Don’t forget to spoon extra buttery sauce over everything to soak in that amazing flavor. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and juicy results.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce up to a day ahead. Store separately in airtight containers in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove to keep the sauce creamy and the chicken tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to warm evenly and prevent the sauce from separating.
What Can I Serve with Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet?
This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or steamed rice to soak up the delicious buttery sauce. Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad also make great side options for a balanced meal.
