Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet with 4 Rich Ingredients

If you’ve ever wished you could bring a little bit of Texas Roadhouse magic into your own kitchen, this Butter Chicken Skillet recipe might just be your new best friend. I stumbled upon this dish during a lazy Sunday meal experiment, and wow—what a quick, comforting winner! The creamy, buttery chicken mingled with the perfect spices makes every bite feel like a little celebration, even on a hectic weeknight.
What I love most about this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is how straightforward it is without sacrificing that deep, rich flavor. You don’t need to be a pro chef to pull this off—just a handful of simple ingredients and a skillet. I’ve tweaked it a bit over time to suit my taste (more butter, please!), and honestly, it’s become a regular in my dinner rotation when I want something hearty, fast, and just downright satisfying.
Trust me, this recipe nails that balance of silky sauce and tender chicken. If you’re looking for chicken breast supper ideas that don’t feel boring or complicated, this skillet dinner is a total game changer. Plus, the leftovers are incredible the next day—if they last that long at all!
Ingredients for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

Alright, here’s where the magic begins! You’ll want to have everything prepped and ready because this skillet recipe comes together fast and it’s all about fresh, flavorful ingredients. I love how simple yet rich it feels — like a cozy Sunday dinner that’s ready in no time.
First, grab 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 6 ounces each. I like to pat them dry—it helps get that golden crust while cooking. You’ll need 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter—this is what gives the dish that silky, buttery finish Texas Roadhouse is known for.
Don’t forget 1 medium white onion, diced finely, and 3 cloves of garlic, minced. The aroma when these hit the pan? Absolutely dreamy.
For the creamy sauce, measure out 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of chicken broth to keep things luscious but balanced. To jazz it up, add 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, and a pinch of cayenne if you like a little kick. Salt and black pepper, freshly ground, are your trusty sidekicks—season generously but taste as you go.
Finally, a handful of chopped fresh parsley to sprinkle on top just before serving—it brightens everything up and adds a pop of color. Oh! And if you want a touch of tang, I sometimes toss in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right at the end. Trust me, it cuts through the richness perfectly.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each), patted dry
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium white onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Having these precise measurements and a little prep done upfront makes cooking this butter chicken skillet such a breeze. You’ll notice how these simple bits come together into a creamy, smoky, and buttery dish that’s downright irresistible. It smells so good while cooking I swear the whole house will be drooling before you even sit down to eat!
How to Prepare Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

Alright, let me take you through the magic of making this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet. This dish feels fancy but really, it’s all about simple steps done right. You’re gonna start by prepping your chicken and veggies—which is key—then whip up a luscious butter sauce that ties everything together. The trick? Getting the timing and heat just right, so everything cooks evenly and that butter sauce turns silky and perfect.
First off, grab a big skillet—cast iron works best if you have one—and get it warming over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes. You want it hot enough to sizzle, but not so hot that your butter burns. While it’s warming, prep your chicken and vegetables.
Once the skillet is hot, you’ll sear the chicken pieces carefully. Don’t crowd them! Give each piece some breathing room—this helps them brown nicely and cook evenly. Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side depending on thickness. You want that gorgeous golden crust before you add the butter sauce. Then, lower your heat just a little so you don’t scorch the butter later.
While your chicken’s resting for a few minutes after searing (it really helps keep it juicy!), it’s time to make the butter sauce. Melt butter slowly over medium-low heat so it doesn’t brown too fast. Add your spices at just the right moment to get those flavors blooming without bitterness. Keep stirring gently until the sauce thickens slightly but remains silky.
Finally, toss your chicken back in with any veggies you want to add. Coat everything in that buttery goodness and let it all heat together for a minute or two. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce clings beautifully to every bite and the chicken looks juicy and tender. Oh, and don’t rush serving it—you want it warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor!
Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables
Okay, your chicken is the star here, so give it some love. I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into even pieces about 1-inch thick. This lets them cook evenly without drying out. Before cooking, pat them dry with paper towels—that helps you get that beautiful sear.
Now, seasoning—keep it simple: salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder do wonders. You can marinate the chicken for 15-20 minutes if you want extra flavor, but it’s fine to cook right away too. Just don’t skip seasoning.
Veggies? I usually go with bell peppers and onions chopped into bite-sized pieces so they cook at the same pace as the chicken. Slice them thin enough that they soften quickly but still hold a little crunch. Set these aside—don’t throw them in too early or they’ll mush up!
Cooking the Butter Sauce
This butter sauce is where the magic happens. Start by melting 4 tablespoons of real butter in your skillet over medium-low heat. Don’t rush it! Melt slowly, stirring occasionally, so it doesn’t brown or burn. Once melted, add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, and a little smoked paprika for that cozy Texas flavor.
Keep the heat low now, and stir the butter and spices together until the sauce is smooth and a little glossy. If you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of heavy cream or a bit of chicken broth helps stretch the sauce and adds richness—just add those slowly, stirring constantly. You want the sauce thick enough to coat the chicken but still silky and pourable.
Pro tip: If the sauce starts bubbling too aggressively, turn the heat down. Butter can separate if overheated, so gentle heat is your friend here.
Combining Ingredients in the Skillet

Once your chicken has a nice sear and the butter sauce is ready, it’s time to bring it all together. Throw the chicken pieces back into the skillet, nestle in the sautéed veggies, and spoon the butter sauce evenly over everything. Give it a gentle toss or stir to coat every bit.
Let everything cook together on low heat for 2-3 minutes. This step blends all those flavors and warms the chicken through without drying it out. You want the chicken tender and juicy, with that buttery sauce clinging to every nook.
Watch the skillet as it simmers gently—if the sauce starts to thicken too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Taste at this point! Add a pinch more salt or pepper if you feel it needs a little extra kick.
You’ll know you’ve nailed it when the chicken glistens, the veggies are soft but not mushy, and your kitchen smells like butter heaven. Serve it hot straight from the skillet—I promise, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.
Equipment Needed for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Alright, let me tell you, getting the right gear for this Butter Chicken Skillet recipe makes all the difference! First off, a good heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan is your best friend here. It holds heat evenly, so your chicken browns beautifully without sticking or burning. I always reach for my 10-inch cast iron — it’s like magic for that perfect sear.
Sharp knives are a must, too. A chef’s knife to chop your garlic, onions, and any other goodies quickly and cleanly. Trust me, dull knives slow you down and make prep frustrating.
Don’t forget some measuring spoons and cups – precise spice amounts really bring the flavors of this dish alive. And when you’re cooking, keep your stove on medium to medium-high. You want steady heat but not too wild – otherwise, your butter sauce can burn, and nobody wants that!
Oh, and a sturdy wooden or silicone spatula helps you toss everything gently without scraping your pan’s seasoning. I like to think of it as my secret weapon for stirring up this creamy, dreamy skillet meal!
Tips for Success with Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Alright, here’s the deal: the key to rocking this Butter Chicken Skillet is not to overcrowd your pan. I know it’s tempting to toss everything in at once, but trust me, giving those chicken breasts some personal space lets them brown beautifully instead of steaming. That golden crust? It’s what makes this dish sing.
Prep your veggies and sauce ingredients beforehand because this recipe moves fast once you start cooking. I always keep my heat at medium to medium-high—too hot and that butter burns in a flash, too low and you won’t get those lovely caramelized bits on the chicken.
Also, don’t skip resting the chicken just a few minutes after cooking. Letting it sit helps the juices settle, making each bite juicy and tender. Oh, and stir the sauce gently; this is not a time to rush, or you’ll lose that silky texture. A quick splash of fresh herbs at the end? Game changer.
Last thing: use real butter! The flavor and richness just can’t be beat here. Your kitchen will smell downright irresistible, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t make this sooner.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Alright, here’s the scoop on the key ingredients for this chicken skillet dish—and how you can tweak them without losing that rich, comforting flavor. I usually stick to chicken breasts because they cook quickly and stay tender if you’re careful, but if you prefer juicier meat, boneless, skinless thighs are an easy swap. Just adjust cooking time a bit since thighs tend to stay moist longer.
Butter is my go-to for that buttery, golden finish. If you want to be a little healthier or dairy-free, ghee or olive oil work just fine—ghee especially brings this lovely nutty vibe that’s worth trying! And if milk or cream is in the recipe, coconut milk or almond milk can be nice dairy-free buddies, just remember they’ll flavor it a bit differently.
Trust me, don’t skimp on seasoning—salt, pepper, and any Indian spices like garam masala or turmeric give the dish its soul. Fresh garlic or ginger? Yes, please! But if you’re in a pinch, the powdered versions are okay too. The biggest tip? Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to play around—cooking’s fun like that!
Variations to Customize Your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Oh, I love how this Butter Chicken Skillet is a total blank canvas for flavor! If you want to switch things up, adding some spinach or bell peppers right at the end gives it a fresh pop of color and crunch. Craving a bit more heat? Toss in a dash of cayenne or smoked paprika – it wakes up the whole dish beautifully.
For my vegetarian friends (or those just wanting a lighter option), swapping chicken for firm tofu or chickpeas works surprisingly well. Just be sure to let them soak up the buttery sauce as much as possible – that’s where all the magic hides!
And here’s a little secret: swirl in some cream cheese or coconut milk to make the sauce extra dreamy and rich. Seriously, it’s like a warm hug in a skillet. Don’t be shy, try whatever feels good – this recipe loves a little creative chaos!
Frequently Asked Questions about Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this skillet?
Absolutely! I’ve done it both ways, and boneless, skinless chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. Just keep in mind thighs might need a little longer to cook through, so watch the pinkness closely.
How long does it usually take to make this Butter Chicken Skillet?
From start to finish, you’re looking at about 25-30 minutes. It’s honestly one of those quick dinners that feels fancy but won’t keep you stuck in the kitchen forever—a big win on busy nights.
Can I swap the butter for something healthier?
For sure! I love the rich, creamy flavor butter adds, but if you want, you can use olive oil or a light margarine. Just remember, butter gives that signature silky sauce—swap with care if you want to keep the authentic taste.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers go straight into an airtight container in the fridge and are good for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave—careful not to overdo it or the chicken gets rubbery. Sometimes I add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce when reheating.
Can I add vegetables to make this dish more colorful and healthy?
Oh yes! Peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms are fantastic tossed in near the end of cooking. They soak up the buttery sauce and make the skillet feel like a full meal. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get extra veggies on the table without fuss.
Nutritional Information for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Alright, let’s talk numbers — but don’t worry, I’ll keep it friendly! Each serving of this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet packs around 450 calories. It’s got a satisfying mix of fats, roughly 25 grams, mostly coming from that rich, buttery sauce that makes this dish so indulgent. Protein? You’re looking at a solid 40 grams per serving thanks to the chicken breast, which is great if you’re aiming to feel full and fueled.
Carbs sit comfortably at about 12 grams, mostly from the spices and any added veggies you toss in. Sodium can be a bit of a wild card here — I’d guess between 700 to 900 milligrams, depending on how salty your ingredients are or if you tweak the seasonings. Remember, these numbers are rough estimates. Ingredient brands vary, and your own kitchen magic might shift things a bit.
But hey, that’s the fun of cooking at home — you get to balance taste and nutrition while making your own version of a favorite. Just consider these values a helpful guide to enjoy your buttery, flavorful skillet without surprises.

Storage and Reheating Instructions for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Oh, leftovers from the Butter Chicken Skillet? Trust me, they’re almost as good as fresh! Here’s how I keep my magic going without losing that buttery, spiced flavor.
- First, cool the skillet completely before storing—hot food in the fridge is a no-go for freshness and safety.
- I pop leftovers into an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Any longer, and the dish starts to lose its charm.
- If you want to freeze it (and yes, I do this sometimes!), make sure it’s tightly sealed in a freezer-safe container or bag. It’ll keep well for about 2 months—just label it so you don’t forget.
- Reheating? Use a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth. This brings back that creamy sauce without drying out the chicken.
- Microwave works too—cover loosely to keep moisture in and heat in short bursts, stirring gently between.
Pro tip: don’t overdo the heat! Slow and steady wins here, so your buttery sauce stays silky and the chicken stays tender. You’ll be amazed how almost-new that skillet tastes even the next day.
