Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet: A Savory and Sweet Dish

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet brings the rich, savory, and smoky flavors of the restaurant right into your kitchen. This dish is made with perfectly seared chicken breasts, smothered in a deliciously sweet and savory buttery sauce that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this skillet chicken recipe is sure to impress.

Why Make This Recipe

Rich, Savory Flavors

The combination of butter, honey, and smoked paprika creates a balance of sweetness and smoky goodness that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken breasts. The garlic powder and chicken broth enhance the flavor profile, making each bite savory and comforting.

Quick and Easy

With just a few simple ingredients and a total cook time of about 30 minutes, this skillet chicken recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. The steps are simple and easy to follow, making it a great option for both beginners and seasoned home cooks.

One-Pan Wonder

This recipe is cooked all in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. The skillet method also ensures that the chicken stays moist and flavorful while the sauce reduces to a deliciously thick, buttery finish.

Ingredients & Substitutions

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: You can use chicken thighs if you prefer, but breasts work great for a leaner dish.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use any cooking oil you prefer. Avocado oil works well for a neutral flavor.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter: For the best flavor, use unsalted butter to control the salt level in the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic is essential to the sauce. You can use fresh minced garlic if you prefer, but garlic powder works wonderfully here.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth of flavor. Regular paprika can be substituted if you prefer a milder flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Season to taste.
• 1/4 cup chicken broth: Chicken broth adds moisture and helps deglaze the pan. You can use vegetable broth or even water in a pinch.

For Garnish:

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh note, but it’s optional if you’re not a fan of herbs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients:

• Lay out all your ingredients, ensuring you have everything pre-measured. If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half to ensure even cooking.

2. Make the Buttery Spice Sauce:

• In a small bowl, combine melted butter, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. This sauce will bring out the richness and smoky sweetness in the chicken.

3. Sear the Chicken:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until a golden crust forms and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

4. Deglaze and Build the Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These bits are packed with flavor and will enhance the sauce. Stir in the prepared butter mixture and reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer gently until it becomes smooth and slightly thickened.

5. Return Chicken to the Skillet:

• Add the chicken back into the skillet and spoon the buttery sauce generously over each piece. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the chicken to soak up the sauce.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve the chicken warm. Each bite should be tender, juicy, and coated in the creamy, luscious sauce.

How to Serve Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

This dish is delicious served with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice to soak up the amazing sauce. It also pairs well with a light side salad for a balanced meal.

How to Store Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Avoid freezing this dish, as the butter-based sauce may separate upon thawing. However, you can freeze the chicken separately and reheat with a fresh batch of sauce if needed.

Tips to Make Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

1. Make it spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
2. For more flavor: Try using bone-in chicken breasts for even more juicy flavor, though the cook time may increase slightly.
3. Meal prep: This recipe can easily be made ahead for meal prep. Store the cooked chicken and sauce separately to prevent the chicken from getting soggy.

Variations

• Make it creamy: Add a bit of heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce for a richer, creamier texture.
• Substitute the chicken: Use chicken thighs or turkey breasts instead of chicken breasts for a different flavor.
• Add vegetables: Add a side of sautéed spinach, asparagus, or broccoli for added nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They are slightly fattier, which makes them more flavorful and juicy, but ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
You can substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for honey if you prefer. Both work well in creating the sweetness for the sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the chicken and sauce ahead of time and reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Conclusion

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is an easy, savory, and sweet dish that’s perfect for any dinner. The tender chicken smothered in a rich, buttery sauce makes it a family favorite. Whether you serve it with rice, vegetables, or potatoes, this dish is sure to be a hit at your table. Enjoy the flavors of a restaurant classic right at home!

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