If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances rich, creamy flavors with a touch of Southern charm, then you’re going to love this Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, combining tender chicken with a luscious buttery sauce that’s both simple to make and deeply satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this skillet recipe brings that iconic Texas Roadhouse taste right into your own kitchen without any fuss.

Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is straightforward but absolutely crucial for capturing that authentic, buttery goodness and the vibrant flavors that make this dish so irresistible. Each item plays a specific role, from adding creaminess and depth to enhancing the savory notes in every bite.

2 large chicken breasts, cut into pieces: The star of the dish, providing tender, juicy protein that absorbs all those delicious spices and sauce.
2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps develop the flavor base with the onions and chicken.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates that luxuriously creamy sauce, making every forkful satisfyingly smooth.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a mellow garlicky depth that permeates the chicken gently.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and gorgeous color to the chicken.
1 small onion, diced: Sweetens the dish and provides a soft texture contrast.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and creates the flavorful liquid base for the sauce.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses a subtle earthy herby note that balances the richness.

How to Make Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Melt Butter and Sauté Onions

Start by heating the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. The butter creates the perfect savory foundation and lends that buttery aroma as it melts. Toss in your diced onions and cook them until they soften and become translucent, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. This step lets the natural sweetness of the onions come forward and infuses the butter with flavor.

Step 2: Season and Brown the Chicken

While the onions are cooking, season your chicken pieces with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coating the chicken well will give each bite a ton of flavor. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook it until it develops a beautiful golden crust on all sides. This browning not only locks in juices but also adds a satisfying texture contrast to the creamy sauce that follows.

Step 3: Simmer with Chicken Broth and Thyme

Once the chicken is nicely browned, pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried thyme. Lower the heat slightly and let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes. This gentle simmer helps the chicken cook through and lets the broth absorb the spice blend and aromatics, building a flavorful sauce base.

Step 4: Stir in Heavy Cream and Thicken the Sauce

Now, reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. This step transforms the broth into a rich, velvety sauce that coats each tender piece of chicken. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, usually 5 minutes or so, stirring occasionally. The result is that signature buttery creaminess that gives this Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe such an unforgettable taste.

How to Serve Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme leaves work wonders as a garnish here. They add a pop of color and a hint of brightness that complements the buttery sauce perfectly. A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper also adds a subtle kick and enhances the visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This skillet dish pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides. Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the sauce like a dream. For a lighter option, roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad provide a nice contrast in texture and keep the meal balanced. Rice or buttered noodles are also excellent choices for sopping up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the butter chicken over warm biscuits or cornbread to merge two Southern favorites into one epic meal. Or, try plating the chicken alongside grilled corn on the cob with a pat of butter to keep the Texas Roadhouse vibe alive and make the dish feel even more festive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers from your Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it great for quick lunches or reheated dinners throughout the week.

Freezing

To freeze, place cooled butter chicken in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and flavor retention.

Reheating

Reheat the butter chicken gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid curdling the cream. You can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary. Microwave reheating is possible but do it in short bursts, stirring in between to maintain that silky sauce consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more moisture and richness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

Is this recipe spicy?

This Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe has a mild warmth from paprika and pepper but is not spicy hot. You can add cayenne or chili powder if you want more kick.

Can I substitute heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a little cornstarch to thicken, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as rich or creamy.

What can I use instead of butter?

While butter is essential for that authentic flavor, you can use ghee or a mild oil like avocado oil, but the taste will differ slightly.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The pieces will be opaque and firm to the touch but still juicy.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and incredible flavor. It truly brings the warmth and comfort of a beloved Southern dish to your table with minimal effort. I encourage you to try it soon—you might just find it becoming one of your favorite go-to meals for an easy, delicious dinner any night of the week.