Name: Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 teaspoons honey; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Pinterest Facebook WhatsApp X Yummly

Craving a flavorful, restaurant-quality dish that you can whip up at home? The Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is the answer! This hearty and delicious dish combines tender, golden-brown chicken breasts with a rich, buttery sauce infused with honey, smoked paprika, and garlic. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s not only simple to make but also packed with flavor.

Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this skillet dish is sure to become a family favorite. The best part? It’s naturally gluten-free, making it a versatile choice for almost any dinner table.

Why Readers Will Love It

Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and a single skillet, this recipe is beginner-friendly yet impressive.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of butter, honey, and smoked paprika creates a balance of richness, sweetness, and smokiness.
Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a meal to wow your guests, this dish delivers.
Gluten-Free Friendly: A satisfying meal without any flour or gluten-based ingredients.

Preparation Phase and Tools to Use

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the right tools on hand. This ensures smooth preparation and helps achieve the best results.

Essential Tools:

Skillet: Use a cast iron or nonstick skillet for even cooking and a rich, caramelized crust on the chicken.
Mixing Bowl: For combining the butter mixture.
Tongs: To easily flip the chicken without tearing the meat.
Measuring Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.

Importance of Each Tool:

A good skillet ensures the chicken cooks evenly and retains moisture.
Tongs make it easier to handle the chicken, reducing the risk of burns or mess.
Mixing bowl keeps the butter mixture well-combined, ensuring consistent flavor.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a closer look at what makes this dish shine:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are the perfect protein base, staying tender and juicy when cooked properly.
2 tbsp olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to a golden-brown finish.
1/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
2 tsp honey: Balances the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a mild, aromatic garlic flavor into the dish.
1 tsp smoked paprika: Provides a smoky, slightly spicy kick.
1/2 tsp salt & 1/2 tsp black pepper: Enhances the overall flavor.
1/4 cup chicken broth: Deglazes the skillet and ties the sauce together.
1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh and vibrant finish.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Butter Mixture:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine softened butter, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Make the Sauce:
- Add 1/4 cup chicken broth to the same skillet, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in the prepared butter mixture and let it melt, forming a silky, flavorful sauce.
Coat the Chicken:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, turning them to coat evenly in the butter sauce.
- Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve the chicken warm, drizzled with extra sauce from the skillet.

Pro Tip:

For an extra creamy sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.
Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture.

Serving Suggestions

The Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Its rich, buttery sauce begs for something to soak it up, while its smoky flavor complements hearty or light accompaniments alike.

Serve the chicken over fluffy mashed potatoes to absorb the flavorful sauce.
Pair it with steamed rice or buttered noodles for a classic combination.
For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or a simple side salad with a zesty vinaigrette.
Add a crusty piece of garlic bread or a warm dinner roll to round out the meal.

This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a crowd-pleasing centerpiece at a gathering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even simple recipes like this one can go awry without proper attention to detail. Here are some common pitfalls and tips to ensure success:

Overcooking the Chicken:
- Mistake: Cooking the chicken too long results in dry, rubbery meat.
- Solution: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F, and remove it promptly from the skillet.
Not Properly Deglazing the Skillet:
- Mistake: Skipping this step leaves behind flavorful browned bits.
- Solution: When adding chicken broth, scrape the skillet bottom thoroughly to release all the flavor into the sauce.
Butter Burning:
- Mistake: Adding butter to an overly hot skillet can cause it to scorch.
- Solution: Reduce heat to medium-low when melting the butter mixture.
Skipping the Garnish:
- Mistake: Forgoing parsley might make the dish look flat and uninviting.
- Solution: Always finish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Using Cold Chicken:
- Mistake: Cold chicken can cook unevenly and stick to the skillet.
- Solution: Let the chicken rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.

Side Dish Recommendations

To complement the rich flavors of the butter chicken, try these eight side dish ideas:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
- Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic pair beautifully with the buttery sauce.
Buttered Green Beans:
- Simple, crisp green beans tossed with a touch of butter add freshness and crunch to the meal.
Honey-Glazed Carrots:
- Sweet, tender carrots cooked with honey and a hint of cinnamon provide a sweet contrast.
Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts:
- Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts while adding a caramelized crunch.
Warm Dinner Rolls:
- Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for soaking up the sauce.
Herb-Infused Quinoa:
- A light, nutty grain seasoned with fresh herbs adds a healthy touch.
Creamy Coleslaw:
- A tangy coleslaw balances the richness of the butter chicken.
Sweet Potato Fries:
- Crispy baked sweet potato fries bring a sweet and savory element to the table.

Recipe Tips

To elevate your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet to perfection, keep these tips in mind:

Room-Temperature Chicken:
- Let the chicken sit out for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from being rubbery.
Season Generously:
- Don’t shy away from seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance its flavor.
Double the Sauce:
- Love extra sauce? Double the butter mixture and chicken broth for a richer, more indulgent dish.
Use Fresh Parsley:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley instead of dried to add brightness and a burst of fresh flavor.
Deglaze Like a Pro:
- Make sure to scrape up all the browned bits when deglazing the skillet with chicken broth. This adds incredible depth to the sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage:
- Let the chicken cool to room temperature before storing.
- Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Stovetop Method: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce from drying out.
- Microwave: Warm on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Freezing:
- For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
- Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness to the dish. Adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs take longer to cook.
What can I use instead of parsley for garnish?
- Try fresh cilantro, chives, or green onions for a different flavor twist.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
- Yes! The chicken reheats well and can be paired with a variety of sides for meal prep-friendly lunches or dinners.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
- Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as vegan butter or olive oil.
What can I do if I don’t have smoked paprika?
- Use regular paprika and add a pinch of cumin or chili powder for a hint of smokiness.
How can I thicken the sauce?
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water and stir it into the sauce while it’s simmering.
Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
- Absolutely! Add mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the skillet after cooking the chicken for an extra layer of flavor.

Conclusion

The Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines rich, buttery flavors with tender chicken in a smoky, savory sauce. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or prepping meals for the week, this recipe delivers every time.

Serve it with your favorite sides, customize it to suit your tastes, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this restaurant-inspired dish at home. We’d love to hear how you make it your own—share your creations and tips in the comments!

Pin Recipe Print Recipe