I’ll never forget the first time I tried the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet. It was a chilly evening, and I was craving something comforting and satisfying. As soon as the server placed that sizzling cast-iron skillet on the table, the aroma of perfectly seasoned chicken and fragrant butter sauce wafted through the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.
I took my first bite, and it was like a flavor explosion in my mouth. The tender chicken was cooked to perfection, the creamy butter sauce clung to every bite, and the combination of spices had my taste buds dancing. I couldn’t believe how easy it was to recreate the bold, craveable flavors of Texas Roadhouse right in my own kitchen with this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet recipe. From that moment on, it became a staple in my dinner rotation, and I know it’ll do the same for you.
Why This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
The secret to this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The chicken is seared to a golden-brown crisp on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. The rich, velvety butter sauce is infused with a blend of aromatic spices that elevate the dish to new heights of deliciousness. And the skillet format allows everything to mingle and meld together in a way that simply can’t be replicated in a regular baked or sautéed chicken dish.
When you make this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a fan-favorite at Texas Roadhouse. It’s the kind of meal that will have your family and friends begging you to make it again and again.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The dark meat of chicken thighs stays juicier and more flavorful than breasts, making it the ideal choice for this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.
- Unsalted butter: The rich, creamy butter is the backbone of the signature sauce, adding an irresistible richness and velvety texture.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the savory notes and provides a warm, aromatic base for the dish.
- Paprika: This smoky spice lends a subtle heat and depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Oregano: Dried oregano brings an earthy, slightly minty flavor that complements the other spices beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that allow the other flavors to shine.
- Chicken broth: Used to create the silky sauce, the broth also keeps the chicken moist and tender.
- Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note and a pop of color to the finished dish.
Step-by-Step Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Instructions
Preparing Your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet comes together quickly, making it the perfect weeknight meal. With just 30 minutes of hands-on time and a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality dish on the table. All you need is a large, oven-safe skillet and a few basic cooking utensils.
1- Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and seasoning them generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2- In a large, oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is hot and foaming, add the chicken thighs and sear them for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they develop a nice golden-brown crust.
3- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
4- Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This will add tons of flavor to the sauce.
5- Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Sprinkle the paprika and dried oregano over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and transfer it to the oven, baking for 15-18 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6- Remove the skillet from the oven and garnish the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, spooning the rich, velvety sauce over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up every last drop.
Pro Tips for Success
- For the juiciest, most tender chicken, use boneless, skinless thighs instead of breasts.
- Don’t be tempted to move the chicken too often while searing – let it develop that perfect golden-brown crust before flipping.
- Adjust the cooking time based on the size of your chicken thighs. Larger pieces may need a few extra minutes in the oven.
- Keep a close eye on the garlic to prevent it from burning and becoming bitter.
- If the sauce seems too thin, let it simmer on the stovetop for a few minutes to thicken up.
Serving and Storing Your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Perfect Pairings for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is the ultimate comfort food, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic pairing, serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that rich, flavorful sauce. It also complements roasted vegetables, like broccoli or brussels sprouts, for a well-rounded meal.
If you’re in the mood for something a little heartier, crusty bread or garlic-butter rolls are the perfect accompaniment, allowing you to mop up every last drop of that irresistible butter sauce. And don’t forget to pour a glass of your favorite white wine or ice-cold beer to round out the Texas Roadhouse experience.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
The Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping or leftovers. Simply store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat the skillet on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
For make-ahead convenience, you can even assemble the entire dish in advance and bake it just before serving. Simply prepare the chicken and sauce as directed, then transfer the mixture to a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, bake the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbling at the edges.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Creative Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Variations
While the classic Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is truly a masterpiece, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this dish. Try swapping the chicken for juicy shrimp or tender beef for a completely different flavor profile. You could also add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions to the skillet for extra veggies and color.
For a more indulgent twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese right before serving. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different herb and spice combinations, like fresh thyme, rosemary, or a dash of cayenne pepper, to suit your personal taste preferences.
Making Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Diet-Friendly
To make this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet a bit more diet-friendly, there are a few simple swaps you can try. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Swap the regular butter for a plant-based alternative to make it dairy-free, and serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb meal.
If you’re following a keto or paleo diet, simply omit the flour or cornstarch and let the sauce thicken naturally. You can also adjust the amount of butter to suit your macros. No matter how you customize it, this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your dietary needs in mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: While chicken thighs are the ideal choice for this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet due to their juicier texture, you can certainly use chicken breasts if that’s what you have on hand. Just be mindful that chicken breasts may dry out more easily, so adjust the cooking time accordingly and keep a close eye on them in the oven.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: If you’d like a thicker, more velvety sauce, simply whisk in a bit of cornstarch or all-purpose flour towards the end of the cooking process. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust the amount as needed to reach your desired consistency.
Q: Can I make this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This dish is a great make-ahead option. Prepare the entire recipe as directed, then transfer the chicken and sauce to a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, bake the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Q: How many people does this recipe serve?
A: This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on the size of the chicken thighs and the appetites of your guests. If you’re feeding a larger crowd, you can easily double or triple the recipe and use a larger, oven-safe skillet or baking dish.
Q: What should I do if the chicken isn’t cooked through?
A: If the chicken isn’t quite cooked through after the initial baking time, simply return the skillet to the oven and check it in 5-minute increments until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The chicken should be opaque and the juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4
Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet – a quick and easy homemade version of this restaurant favorite. Tender chicken pieces are cooked in a decadent, buttery sauce for a meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. 1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tbsp of the butter.
2. 2. Add the cubed chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned on all sides.
3. 3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. 4. Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tbsp of butter to the skillet.
5. 5. Whisk in the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. 6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
7. 7. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
8. 8. Serve the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
For an extra creamy sauce, you can add a splash of white wine or chicken broth. The sauce can also be thinned with additional cream or milk if desired. Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Courses
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
The Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a true flavor sensation that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance. With its perfectly seared chicken, rich and creamy butter sauce, and aromatic blend of spices, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite.
I hope this recipe helps you recreate the magic of Texas Roadhouse in your own kitchen. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. Bon appétit!