There are certain dishes that speak to the soul, drawing you in with their scent before the first bite even touches your lips. For me, the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is one of those dishes. It’s not just the velvety texture of the butter-infused sauce or the perfectly seared, golden chicken—it’s the way this dish can instantly create a sense of comfort, no matter the season.
I first stumbled upon this skillet recipe during a chilly spring evening, craving something that could bring warmth without the heaviness of winter fare. That night, as the sun dipped below the horizon and the sky glowed pink, the kitchen came alive with sizzling butter, the earthy depth of smoked paprika, and a soft whisper of honey sweetness. Every time I make it now, I’m reminded of that night—the simplicity of cooking something beautiful, and the joy of sharing it with loved ones.
The Texas Roadhouse-style approach brings Southern soul to this recipe. Butter chicken, as the name implies, is about indulgence—without going overboard. It’s hearty, yes, but balanced with the mild sweetness of honey and the grounding notes of garlic and paprika. And because this version is made in a single skillet, it’s just as friendly for busy weeknights as it is for weekend comfort food sessions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-skillet simplicity: Fewer dishes, quicker cleanup, and maximum flavor in every bite.
- Crowd-pleasing flavor: A butter-honey blend with garlic and smoked paprika creates a savory, sweet, and slightly smoky sauce.
- Flexible and family-friendly: Adaptable to chicken thighs or breasts, and pairs with rice, mashed potatoes, or even warm bread.
- Quick and satisfying: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for midweek dinners or relaxed Sunday suppers.
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Description
There are certain dishes that speak to the soul, drawing you in with their scent before the first bite even touches your lips. For me, the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is one of those dishes. It’s not just the velvety texture of the butter-infused sauce or the perfectly seared, golden chicken—it’s the way this dish can instantly create a sense of comfort, no matter the season.
I first stumbled upon this skillet recipe during a chilly spring evening, craving something that could bring warmth without the heaviness of winter fare. That night, as the sun dipped below the horizon and the sky glowed pink, the kitchen came alive with sizzling butter, the earthy depth of smoked paprika, and a soft whisper of honey sweetness. Every time I make it now, I’m reminded of that night—the simplicity of cooking something beautiful, and the joy of sharing it with loved ones.
The Texas Roadhouse-style approach brings Southern soul to this recipe. Butter chicken, as the name implies, is about indulgence—without going overboard. It’s hearty, yes, but balanced with the mild sweetness of honey and the grounding notes of garlic and paprika. And because this version is made in a single skillet, it’s just as friendly for busy weeknights as it is for weekend comfort food sessions.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
¼ cup unsalted butter
2 teaspoons honey
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare your ingredients
Begin by laying out everything you need. Slice your chicken breasts if they’re extra thick to ensure even cooking. Have your butter and seasonings pre-measured to make the process seamless.
Step 2: Make the buttery spice sauce
In a small bowl, combine the unsalted butter (melted), honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This combination brings the heart of this dish—rich, sweet, savory, and smoky flavors coming together in harmony.
Step 3: Sear the chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts, cooking each side for about 5–6 minutes until a golden crust forms. You’re not only sealing in the juices here—you’re also building the base for flavor. Once cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F), remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 4: Deglaze and build the sauce
With the chicken removed, pour the chicken broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom—this adds depth to the sauce. Stir in the prepared butter mixture and reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer gently until smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 5: Return chicken to the skillet
Add the chicken back into the skillet, spooning the buttery sauce generously over each piece. Let it simmer together for 2–3 minutes to soak up the flavors.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm. Each bite should be tender, juicy, and glazed in that unmistakably luscious Texas Roadhouse-style sauce.
Notes
-
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Reheat slowly with a splash of broth or water to refresh the sauce.
-
Avoid freezing, as the butter-based sauce may separate upon thawing.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
HOW TO MAKE Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1: Prepare your ingredients
Begin by laying out everything you need. Slice your chicken breasts if they’re extra thick to ensure even cooking. Have your butter and seasonings pre-measured to make the process seamless.
Step 2: Make the buttery spice sauce
In a small bowl, combine the unsalted butter (melted), honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This combination brings the heart of this dish—rich, sweet, savory, and smoky flavors coming together in harmony.
Step 3: Sear the chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts, cooking each side for about 5–6 minutes until a golden crust forms. You’re not only sealing in the juices here—you’re also building the base for flavor. Once cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F), remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 4: Deglaze and build the sauce
With the chicken removed, pour the chicken broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom—this adds depth to the sauce. Stir in the prepared butter mixture and reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer gently until smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 5: Return chicken to the skillet
Add the chicken back into the skillet, spooning the buttery sauce generously over each piece. Let it simmer together for 2–3 minutes to soak up the flavors.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm. Each bite should be tender, juicy, and glazed in that unmistakably luscious Texas Roadhouse-style sauce.
HELPFUL TIPS
- Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor and extra juiciness.
- Add a kick with a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper if you like spice.
- Double the sauce if you plan to serve with mashed potatoes or rice—it’s that good.
- Cook in cast iron for the best sear and heat retention.
DETAILS
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
NOTES
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Reheat slowly with a splash of broth or water to refresh the sauce.
- Avoid freezing, as the butter-based sauce may separate upon thawing.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Approximate per serving:
- Calories: 380
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 5g
- Protein: 37g
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet?
The Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a hearty dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich, buttery, honey-garlic sauce. Inspired by the restaurant’s signature flavors, this skillet meal is both comforting and full of bold, savory notes, making it perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining.
Does Texas Roadhouse have butter chicken?
Texas Roadhouse doesn’t offer traditional butter chicken on its menu, but copycat recipes inspired by the restaurant’s buttery, flavorful cooking style have become popular. These versions typically feature juicy chicken breasts in a sweet-savory butter and garlic sauce, perfect for recreating the experience at home.
Can you cook chicken in a Texas Roadhouse skillet?
Yes, you can cook chicken in a Texas Roadhouse-style skillet. Simply heat oil and butter, then sear seasoned chicken until golden and cooked through. The skillet locks in moisture and flavor, making it ideal for rich sauces like the classic honey-butter garlic blend.
How do you cook Texas Roadhouse chicken?
To cook a Texas Roadhouse-inspired chicken, season boneless chicken pieces with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear in a skillet with butter and olive oil until golden, then simmer in a creamy, buttery sauce for a flavorful, restaurant-style dish at home.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with added broth to maintain the sauce texture.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the sauce may become grainy.
Related Recipes
If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:
- Texas Roadhouse-Style Lamb Chops: A Copycat Classic for Your Cravings
- A Summertime Classic: The Story Behind This Grilled Chicken Breast
- Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken
- Indian Butter Cauliflower
CONCLUSION
Few meals can offer the kind of down-home, comforting flavor that the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet delivers in under half an hour. It’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again—whether to warm up a chilly night, impress a dinner guest with minimal effort, or simply treat yourself to something rich and soul-satisfying.