To say that dinner came together in a flash would be an understatement when you whip up this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet. In just 30 minutes, you can savor tender chicken enveloped in a creamy, buttery garlic sauce that beautifully dances between sweet and savory notes. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; whether you crave a kick of heat or an extra splash of creaminess, it caters to your whims, making it a perfect choice for hectic weeknights. Plus, it’s gluten-free and low-carb, so you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for your health goals. What unique twist will you add to make it your own?
Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?
Quick Cooking: In just 30 minutes, this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet transforms your dinner routine!
Flavor Explosion: The creamy garlic sauce strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, making every bite unforgettable.
Customizable Delight: Whether you want to enhance the spiciness with cayenne or add cream for a richer texture, the options are endless!
Health-Conscious Choice: Gluten-free and low-carb, this dish allows you to indulge without the guilt, making it ideal for health-conscious food lovers.
Meal Prep Friendly: The recipe is a breeze for meal prep, with leftovers keeping well in the fridge for a quick reheat during busy times. Be sure to also check out our Crock Pot Chicken Stew for another flavorful option!
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Ingredients
For the Skillet
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Thighs bring out richer flavor and extra moisture.
- Butter – Provides a creamy, savory base for the sauce; olive oil can lighten it up.
- Garlic – Freshly minced is essential for that classic buttery garlic aroma.
- Chicken broth – Adds depth and moisture; opt for low-sodium for a healthier version.
- Honey – Balances flavors perfectly and is key for achieving that Texas Roadhouse essence.
- Paprika – Brings a lovely smokiness to the dish.
- Salt & cracked black pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance all the delightful flavors.
Optional Add-ins and Variations
- Caramelized onions – For added sweetness and depth; prep them in advance for the best flavor.
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese – Stir in for extra creaminess if desired.
- Dried parsley – A sprinkle adds a touch of freshness and color.
- Cayenne pepper or hot sauce – Spice it up with a small amount to suit your heat preference.
- Heavy cream – Incorporate this for a richer, decadent sauce.
- Cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives – For a Mediterranean twist and a burst of flavor.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs generously on both sides with salt, cracked black pepper, and paprika. Ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed to enhance the flavor. Set the chicken aside and let it rest, allowing the spices to penetrate while you heat the skillet.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until it’s bubbly. Carefully place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and sear for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter if needed, allowing it to melt. Introduce the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Next, pour in the chicken broth and honey, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any brown bits, which add depth to your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.
Step 4: Simmer Chicken
Return the seared chicken back to the skillet, placing it in the bubbling sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken to ensure it’s well-coated. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Add Cheese (if desired)
If you’d like a cheesy touch, sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top of the chicken. Cover the skillet briefly for approximately 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a deliciously creamy topping for your dish.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet with fresh parsley and, if desired, a few caramelized onions for added sweetness and flavor. Serve alongside garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting and family-friendly meal that’s sure to impress.
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Variations
Feel free to shake things up and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce for an excellent flavor boost without the gluten.
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Low-Carb: Swap honey for a low-carb sweetener like erythritol to keep the sweetness while reducing carbs effortlessly.
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Creamy Garlic: Stir in an extra 1/4 cup of heavy cream just before serving for a luxurious, creamy finish that envelopes the chicken beautifully.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can elevate the flavor; sprinkle a handful just before serving for a fresh touch that brightens the dish.
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Mediterranean Twist: Add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach for a delightful Mediterranean flair, making your skillet feel like a warm embrace from the Mediterranean coast.
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Extra Spicy: If you love heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to elevate your culinary adventure.
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Texture Variation: For a crunch, sprinkle toasted almonds or walnuts on top of the finished dish to add a great contrast to the buttery chicken.
For more delicious recipes like this, don’t forget to check out my Chipotle Lime Chicken for a flavor-packed meal and Crockpot Butter Chicken that cooks effortlessly in the slow cooker!
Expert Tips for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
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Chicken Selection: Choose thighs over breasts for a juicier, more flavorful result—perfect for this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.
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Sauté Garlic Carefully: Don’t overcook the garlic; sauté just until fragrant to maintain that fresh flavor. Burnt garlic can lead to bitterness.
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Adjusting Sauce Thickness: For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tsp of cornstarch in cold water and stir it into the sauce as it simmers until the desired consistency is reached.
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Customize Flavor: Experiment with add-ins like caramelized onions or hot sauce to make this dish uniquely yours—don’t be afraid to make it spicy!
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Finishing Touch: Let the skillet sit for a minute after cooking to enhance the infusion of flavors and ensure every bite of chicken is deliciously coated.
How to Store and Freeze Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over medium heat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to avoid dryness.
Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then refrigerate. Finish cooking just before serving for a quick meal on busy nights.
Make Ahead Options
These Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillets are a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the chicken and even prepare the creamy garlic sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Just store the seasoned chicken and sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. When you're ready to serve, simply sear the chicken and follow the recipe's finishing instructions, simmering it in the sauce for about 5-7 minutes. This ensures you’ll enjoy a deliciously restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights, making your cooking experience as enjoyable as the lovely flavors awaiting you!
What to Serve with Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
To elevate your dining experience, think about pairing your delicious skillet dish with sides that complement its rich flavors and textures.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: These creamy, buttery potatoes soak up the decadent sauce, creating a match made in heaven—perfect for a comforting meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: Crisp-tender veggies add a vibrant touch and essential nutrients, balancing the richness of the chicken beautifully. Toss with olive oil and herbs for an extra kick.
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Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls provide the ideal vehicle for mopping up every last bit of that creamy sauce, enhancing the dining experience with their comforting texture.
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Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the heavy, buttery chicken, making every bite a delightful balance of flavors.
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Quinoa Salad: A light, protein-packed side with fresh ingredients like cucumbers and tomatoes—not only does it add texture, but it also lightens up the meal.
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Sweet Corn on the Cob: The natural sweetness of buttery corn complemented with a sprinkle of salt pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the chicken skillet.
Each of these sides adds depth and excitement to your meal, making your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet the star of a hearty home-cooked feast!
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet, I recommend boneless skinless chicken thighs over breasts because they provide richer flavor and moisture. Look for thighs that have a nice pink hue without any dark spots or unpleasant smell.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very good question! Store your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure to reheat gently over medium heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can! This delicious dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of chicken broth for moisture if needed.
What if my sauce is too thin or thick?
For a thinner sauce, just let it simmer for a bit longer without the cover; it will reduce nicely. If it's too thick, you can gradually stir in more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, for a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water, then stir that mixture into your sauce while it simmers until you achieve a lovely richness.
Are there any dietary considerations for allergies or pets?
Absolutely! This recipe is gluten-free and can easily be made low-carb, just watch your additions like honey and any garnishes. Always check for allergies if you’re serving to friends or family. For pets, while the dish itself is not unhealthy, avoid sharing any buttery foods, especially if they contain garlic, which can be harmful to dogs.
What are fun variations I can try to switch up the flavors?
Oh, the more the merrier! You can definitely add a kick using cayenne pepper or hot sauce during cooking for heat. If you want a creamy texture, stir in some heavy cream at the end. For a touch of freshness, toss in cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives! Adjusting the spices and adding ingredients is a delightful way to make this dish uniquely yours!
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet: Comfort Food Heaven
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken generously with salt, cracked black pepper, and paprika. Let it rest while heating the skillet.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and honey, scraping the skillet.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over it, reduce heat, and let it simmer uncovered for 5-7 minutes.
- If desired, sprinkle cheese on top of the chicken, cover briefly until melted.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with sides like garlic mashed potatoes.
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