Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a rich and creamy dish inspired by the bold flavors of Texas Roadhouse. Tender chicken pieces are cooked in a velvety butter sauce infused with aromatic herbs and spices, delivering a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s easy enough for a cozy family dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests, creating a restaurant-quality experience right at home.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
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2 large chicken breasts, cut into pieces
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2 tablespoons butter
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 small onion, diced
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
Directions
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Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the diced onions and cook until softened.
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Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on all sides.
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Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
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Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream.
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Let the sauce thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
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Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Nutrients (approximate per serving)
Note: Nutritional details were not explicitly listed, but based on the ingredients, an estimate would be:
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Calories: 400–450
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Total Fat: 30g
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Saturated Fat: 15g
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Cholesterol: 130mg
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Sodium: 400mg
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Carbohydrates: 5g
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Fiber: 0g
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Sugar: 2g
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Protein: 30g
Why You’ll Love Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
The Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet shines because of its simple yet highly flavorful profile. The combination of buttery richness, creamy sauce, and tender chicken pieces creates an unforgettable experience that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. The addition of aromatic garlic powder, smoky paprika, and earthy thyme transforms basic ingredients into a cohesive, flavorful dish that tastes as if it’s been slow-cooked for hours. Plus, this skillet meal comes together quickly, making it a fantastic choice for busy nights when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Flavor and Texture Highlights
This dish features a symphony of flavors and textures that harmonize beautifully. The chicken is juicy and well-seasoned, offering a slightly smoky flavor thanks to the paprika. The butter and heavy cream create a rich, silky sauce that clings perfectly to the chicken, offering a luxurious mouthfeel with every bite. Meanwhile, the sautéed onions add a subtle sweetness that balances the richness of the sauce. The thyme provides a gentle herbal note, rounding out the flavors with a slightly earthy undertone. Each bite offers tender meat bathed in a creamy, savory sauce that feels both rustic and refined.
Perfect Occasions for Serving
The Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is incredibly versatile and works well for a variety of occasions. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners when you want something hearty and satisfying. It also serves as a crowd-pleaser for casual get-togethers or potlucks. The dish’s rich, comforting flavors make it an ideal centerpiece for weekend dinners or special gatherings where you want to serve something homemade but still impressive. Whether paired with a simple green salad, warm dinner rolls, or a buttery mashed potato side, this skillet meal fits seamlessly into any dinner setting.
Helpful Tips for the Best Results
To get the best possible results, start by using high-quality chicken breasts and fresh cream. When cooking the chicken pieces, ensure you sear them properly until they are golden brown, as this step locks in moisture and adds a depth of flavor to the dish. Allow the broth to simmer to develop flavor before adding the cream, and always lower the heat before stirring in the heavy cream to prevent it from curdling. As the sauce thickens, stir gently and consistently to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving elevates the dish with a touch of color and fresh flavor.
Delicious Variations to Try
While the classic recipe is outstanding on its own, there are several ways to customize this Butter Chicken Skillet to suit your taste. For an extra punch of flavor, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for subtle heat. If you prefer a smoky profile, a dash of smoked paprika instead of regular paprika works beautifully. You could also incorporate vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Substituting chicken thighs instead of breasts can create an even juicier, more flavorful dish. For a slightly tangy twist, a splash of lemon juice added at the end brightens the sauce.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers of the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet can be stored easily, making it a great meal prep option. Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Microwaving is also an option, but use a lower power setting to avoid overheating the sauce and causing it to separate. While this dish can be frozen, note that cream-based sauces may change in texture after thawing, so fresh preparation is always preferred.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Information
Although the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is an indulgent dish, it does offer some nutritional advantages. Chicken breasts provide a lean source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle maintenance and overall health. Garlic and thyme contribute antioxidant properties and immune-boosting benefits. While the dish is rich in fats due to the butter and cream, enjoying it occasionally as part of a balanced diet can fit into a healthy lifestyle. Pairing the meal with steamed vegetables or a light salad can help balance its richness and round out the meal with fiber and additional nutrients.
Ideal Side Dishes and Pairings
The rich and creamy nature of this dish pairs beautifully with simple, comforting sides. Mashed potatoes are a classic option, soaking up the delicious sauce and adding another layer of coziness. Steamed rice, buttered noodles, or warm crusty bread also work wonderfully to help enjoy every drop of sauce. For a lighter contrast, serve the Butter Chicken Skillet with a fresh green salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots provide a colorful, nutritious counterbalance to the dish’s richness.
Why Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a Must-Try
This skillet recipe captures the bold, satisfying spirit of Texas Roadhouse dining while making it accessible and achievable in a home kitchen. It’s a shining example of how a few simple ingredients, treated with care and cooked properly, can create a meal that feels special. The richness of the sauce, the juiciness of the chicken, and the comforting flavors make this dish universally appealing. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner looking for a foolproof crowd-pleaser, this Butter Chicken Skillet delivers incredible flavor and ease, ensuring it becomes a staple in your recipe collection.
Conclusion
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet offers everything you want in a comforting meal—rich flavor, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and easy preparation. It’s a dish that feels hearty and indulgent but requires surprisingly little effort to pull together. Its combination of buttery richness, savory spices, and aromatic herbs creates a meal that feels both rustic and sophisticated, perfect for sharing with family or serving to guests. With a few simple sides, it can transform a regular dinner into a memorable, restaurant-quality experience at home. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite whenever you’re craving something truly satisfying.