Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet – Easy 30-Minute Comfort Dinner

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. If you’ve ever found yourself craving that buttery, garlicky goodness you get at a Texas Roadhouse but didn’t want to put on real pants to get it, this recipe’s for you. It’s rich, creamy, and done in under 40 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something indulgent but still homemade.

With the star ingredient—Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet—you get that signature buttery flavor, tender chicken, and a savory sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes or mopping up with warm dinner rolls. It’s comforting, family-approved, and simple enough to become part of your regular rotation. Plus, it makes your kitchen smell like a five-star steakhouse without the bill that follows.

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What is Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet?

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a creamy, skillet-style chicken dish inspired by the bold and savory flavors of the classic Texas Roadhouse menu. It’s all about juicy chicken bites sautéed in butter and seasoned with garlic, paprika, and thyme, then simmered in a luscious sauce of chicken broth and heavy cream. The result is a dish that’s equal parts cozy and flavorful—a perfect mix of Southern comfort and restaurant-style indulgence.

You don’t need a fancy setup to pull this off; just a skillet, a few pantry staples, and a little patience. Think of it as the weekday version of going out to dinner—minus the wait time, the crowd, and the temptation to overdo it on the bread rolls (though no judgment if you do).

Reasons to Try Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

Let’s be honest—any recipe that starts with butter is already halfway to greatness. But this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet isn’t just another chicken dinner. It’s a comfort classic that checks every box: quick to make, rich in flavor, and versatile enough to pair with just about anything. First, it’s weeknight-friendly. From fridge to table in about 40 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for those nights when “What’s for dinner?” feels like a personal attack.

Second, it’s incredibly family-friendly—even picky eaters tend to clean their plates. Lastly, the flavor is downright irresistible. The buttery sauce clings to every bite of chicken, creating a creamy coating that tastes like pure satisfaction. And if you’re into easy skillet meals, you might also love Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice for a similarly cozy vibe.

Ingredients Needed to Make Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

• 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 small onion, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions to Make Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Sauté the Onions

Start this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet recipe by setting your skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt slowly—it should sizzle softly, not burn. Once the butter is golden and fragrant, toss in your diced onion. Stir it around with a wooden spoon until the onions turn translucent and start to caramelize slightly. This step builds the foundation of rich, savory flavor that makes this dish unforgettable. If you’ve got extra onions, consider saving some for French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes—they’re a great way to use leftovers.

Step 2: Season and Brown the Chicken

While your onions cook, season your chicken pieces with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently toss them so every bite gets coated with that flavorful mix. Now, add the chicken to the skillet with your buttery onions. Don’t crowd the pan—give those chicken pieces room to brown beautifully. This step-by-step process is crucial because browning locks in juices and gives your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet that signature depth. Stir occasionally, but let each side sear until golden. If you love that seared chicken flavor, you’ll also enjoy my Hot Honey Feta Chicken, which uses similar skillet techniques.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan and Build the Base

After your chicken has developed that gorgeous golden color, pour in the chicken broth. The moment the liquid hits the pan, it’ll start to bubble and lift all the browned bits stuck to the bottom—that’s where the flavor magic hides. Scrape gently with your spoon to mix those into the broth. Let it simmer for about five minutes. This step-by-step simmering process transforms your simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful sauce base that will coat every bite of chicken. If you prefer a tangier flavor, swap part of the broth for white wine—just like in my Chicken Normandy.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Thicken the Sauce

Lower the heat before pouring in your heavy cream. Stir slowly, watching as the sauce turns creamy and smooth. Keep the heat low and let it simmer for another five minutes, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks. As the sauce thickens, you’ll notice it clinging beautifully to the chicken—this is the step where your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet transforms from simple to restaurant-worthy. For an extra boost of flavor, add a pinch of dried thyme or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. Need more creamy comfort? Check out this Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni for another luscious, weeknight-friendly meal.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve Warm

Once your sauce has thickened to perfection, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish generously with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme—it adds a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or even buttered noodles. The creamy sauce will soak into everything, making it impossible not to grab seconds. If you’re serving guests, pair it with a crisp side salad or roasted veggies. Want to make it a full Southern-style feast? Try it alongside my Cajun Chicken Orzo for a bold flavor combo.

This step-by-step guide makes preparing the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet easy, approachable, and delicious from start to finish. With each step, you’re layering flavors and creating a meal that feels both comforting and indulgent. So grab your skillet, follow along, and in under 40 minutes, you’ll have a buttery, creamy dinner that tastes like pure satisfaction.

What to Serve with Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

This dish pairs beautifully with just about anything that can soak up that buttery sauce. Fluffy mashed potatoes are a classic choice, but steamed rice or garlic bread make strong contenders. For a lighter touch, a simple side salad or roasted veggies work great too. Feeling extra hungry? Try pairing it with Cajun Chicken Orzo for a bold and flavorful dinner combo. A side of green beans or roasted carrots adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing the rich sauce perfectly.

Key Tips for Making Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

1. Don’t skimp on the butter—it’s the soul of this recipe. Use real butter for that authentic, rich flavor.
2. Let the chicken brown before adding the broth. That sear locks in juices and gives the sauce a deeper taste.
3. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a few extra minutes after adding the cream.
4. For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
5. Fresh herbs make a big difference—try a little parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

Leftovers (if there are any) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of cream or chicken broth to bring the sauce back to life. Avoid the microwave if you can—it can dry out the chicken. This dish also freezes surprisingly well! Just let it cool completely, pack it in freezer-safe containers, and store for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and add extra richness to the dish.
Can I make it dairy-free? You can substitute the butter with olive oil and the cream with coconut cream, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Is this the same as Indian butter chicken? Not quite. This version is milder and more Southern-style, but it’s every bit as satisfying.
Can I make it ahead of time? Yes! The flavors deepen overnight, so it tastes even better the next day.

Final Thoughts

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is comfort food done right—creamy, flavorful, and ready in a flash. It’s the kind of dish that feels special enough for Sunday dinner but easy enough for Tuesday night chaos. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this skillet is pure satisfaction in every bite. If you’re into easy, creamy chicken recipes, you’ll also love Perfect Marry Me Chicken Soup for another cozy, crowd-pleasing meal.

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