Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

Craving something buttery, bold, and bursting with Southern comfort? Let’s talk about the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet — a sizzling pan of juicy, seasoned chicken drenched in a rich, creamy butter sauce. Inspired by the homestyle flavors you’d find at a roadside steakhouse in Texas, this skillet dinner is the perfect fusion of spice, warmth, and soul.

You don’t need anything fancy to bring this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet to life—just a few everyday tools and bold ingredients. Most are easy to find online, so you can get cooking fast with minimal effort.

Equipment (Available on Amazon):

• Large non-stick skillet – for searing and simmering – Shop now

• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring and sauce control – Get it here

• Sharp chef’s knife – for quick, clean prep – Check price

Ingredients (Easy to order online):

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – juicy and tender – Buy now

• Smoked paprika – rich, smoky flavor – Add to cart

• Cheddar cheese – melts perfectly over the skillet – Order now

• Heavy cream – creates a velvety butter sauce – Grab it here

• Olive oil & butter – essential for flavor and cooking – Bundle deal here

What Is Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet?

This skillet dish is a Texas-style twist on the classic butter chicken, known for its smoky seasoning, rich butter sauce, and cheddar cheese finish. Unlike traditional Indian butter chicken, this version leans into hearty Southern flavors with bold spices and creamy textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: 30 minutes from start to finish.

• One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.

• Spicy & Savory: Customizable heat with smoky undertones.

• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love it.

• Restaurant Quality: Tastes like it came from a sizzling hot skillet at Texas Roadhouse.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything required to make this comfort classic:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• Optional: sliced green onions for garnish

How to Choose the Best Chicken

For the juiciest results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You can also substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor and more moisture. Cut them into even bite-sized chunks for uniform cooking.

The Secret to Flavorful Butter Chicken

What makes this skillet special is layering flavors:

• Start by searing the chicken in olive oil.

• Infuse with bold spices like smoked paprika and garlic.

• Finish with butter, broth, and cream to create a luscious sauce.

It’s all about building depth, one step at a time.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

  Step 1: Season the Chicken

In a bowl, toss the chicken with:

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

• Smoked paprika

• Chili powder

• Cayenne pepper (optional)

• Salt & pepper

Make sure every piece is well-coated.

  Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

  Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add:

• 3 tablespoons of butter

• Chicken broth

Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to deglaze the pan and lift all those tasty brown bits from the bottom.

  Step 4: Add the Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 3 minutes until slightly thickened.

  Step 5: Return the Chicken

Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy butter sauce.

  Step 6: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Let it melt for about 2 minutes until gooey and delicious.

  Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Top with fresh parsley and optional green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for a Perfect Skillet Chicken

• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken in batches if needed for a nice sear.

• Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and texture.

• Adjust heat to your taste — skip cayenne for mild, double it for spicy!

How to Adjust the Heat

This dish has just the right kick, but here’s how to tweak it:

• Milder: Omit cayenne and cut chili powder in half.

• Hotter: Add red pepper flakes or increase cayenne to 1 tsp.

Cheese Makes Everything Better

The cheddar cheese brings creaminess, tang, and richness. You can also try:

• Pepper Jack (for more spice)

• Mozzarella (for gooey texture)

• A sharp white cheddar (for bold flavor)

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With It

Looking to round out the meal? Try serving this butter chicken skillet with:

• Mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower

• Buttery biscuits

• Steamed rice or buttered noodles

• Grilled veggies or green beans

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat:

• Use a skillet on medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.

• Microwave in short bursts, stirring between.

Can You Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can:

• Cook the chicken in advance and refrigerate it.

• Prepare the sauce and store separately.

• Combine both and reheat just before serving.

It’s a great make-ahead option for meal prepping.

Gluten-Free and Keto Variations

Good news! This recipe is naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly.

To keep it low-carb:

• Serve over zoodles, cauliflower rice, or shredded cabbage.

• Use full-fat cream and cheese for best keto results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken: It dries out quickly, so cook just until done.

• Using pre-shredded cheese: It doesn’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated.

• Skipping the deglaze: Those browned bits are flavor gold. Don’t miss out!

Final Thoughts on This Southern Comfort Dish

There’s something truly magical about this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet. It’s the perfect marriage of creamy, spicy, and cheesy flavors in one irresistible dish. Whether you’re cooking for the family or hosting guests, this skillet will win hearts — and maybe a few recipe requests.

So, fire up that skillet, throw on your apron, and get ready for a weeknight dinner that’s anything but boring.

FAQs About Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work wonderfully in this recipe.

2. How spicy is the dish?

It’s moderately spicy with the default seasoning. You can adjust the cayenne and chili powder to suit your taste.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter and cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and plant-based butter.

4. What other cheeses work well?

Try Pepper Jack for extra spice or Monterey Jack for a milder option.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within 3 days of refrigerating.

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