Introduction
Juicy, buttery, and bursting with bold flavor, the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a mouthwatering fusion of Southern comfort and classic skillet cooking. Whether you’re craving something creamy, crave-worthy, and loaded with flavor—or just need a quick weeknight dinner that wows—this dish is your new go-to.
Here’s a fun little tidbit: While butter chicken is famously known as a rich Indian curry dish, the Texas Roadhouse twist adds smoky skillet-seared flavor and creamy Southern-style butter sauce. It’s like your favorite comfort food and your favorite restaurant dish got together and created magic.
This meal is quick to prepare (under 30 minutes), uses simple pantry staples, and is totally family-friendly—even picky eaters love it. Plus, it’s made in one skillet, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Table of Contents
Table of Contents
If you’re a fan of our “Southern Creamy Chicken Bake” or “Easy Skillet Chicken with Garlic Sauce,” you’ll fall in love with this butter chicken version. So grab your skillet, bring your appetite, and let’s cook up some down-home deliciousness!
What is Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet?
Ever wondered what happens when a creamy Indian-style butter chicken crashes into a Texas Roadhouse-style skillet? You get the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet—a flavor-packed, one-pan wonder that’s smoky, savory, buttery, and just a little bit spicy. It’s the dish you didn’t know you needed until your tastebuds begged for more.
They say “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this skillet dish proves it. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or just need comfort food on a Tuesday night, this buttery chicken will not disappoint. So go ahead—grab that skillet and get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
- Buttery, Bold Flavor – Every bite is packed with creamy butter sauce, skillet-seared chicken, and just enough seasoning to make your mouth water.
- Budget-Friendly and Homemade – Skip the takeout or restaurant bill. You can whip this up at home in less than 30 minutes using pantry staples.
- Toppings Make It Irresistible – A dollop of sour cream, fresh herbs, or even crispy bacon bits can elevate the flavor even more.
If you enjoyed the flavors of our “Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs” recipe, this one takes the concept further with even more depth and creaminess. Give it a shot—you’ll be going back for seconds.
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Quick Overview
This dish is ideal for busy weeknights. It’s made entirely in one skillet, loaded with flavor, and ready in under 30 minutes. The buttery sauce coats tender, golden-browned chicken pieces for a comforting yet crave-worthy meal Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.

Key Ingredients for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 medium garlic clove, minced
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional for spice)
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: sour cream or shredded cheese for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken – Pat chicken dry and season with paprika, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken – In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tbsp oil. Add chicken and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce – In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp butter and garlic. Sauté 1 minute, then whisk in tomato paste, chicken broth, and cream. Simmer 5 minutes until thickened.
- Combine & Finish – Return chicken to the skillet. Stir to coat in sauce. Add remaining tablespoon of butter for extra richness. Simmer 2–3 more minutes.
- Serve Hot – Garnish with parsley, and top with sour cream or cheese if desired.
What to Serve Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet With
- Garlic mashed potatoes – Creamy and classic, a perfect match for the rich sauce.
- Buttered rice or pilaf – To soak up all that delicious gravy.
- Grilled vegetables – Light, fresh, and balances out the meal.
- Warm dinner rolls or naan – To mop up every last drop.
- Iced tea or lemonade – Sweet and refreshing against the buttery, savory skillet.
Top Tips for Perfecting Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
- Use chicken thighs for extra tenderness and flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken—searing should be golden, not dry.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to balance the richness.
- Want more spice? Add red pepper flakes or cayenne.
- Stir in some parmesan for a cheesy twist!

Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to rehydrate the sauce.
This dish also makes great meal-prep lunches when served with rice or veggies!
Questions
Have questions about making the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet? You’re not alone! Here are answers to some of the most common questions to help you cook with confidence and get the best results every time.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! In fact, chicken thighs are often juicier and more flavorful than breasts. They’re perfect for skillet recipes because they stay moist and absorb all that buttery sauce beautifully.
Is this dish spicy?
Not unless you want it to be! The recipe includes optional chili powder or red pepper flakes for a little kick, but you can leave them out if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. The flavors actually deepen after a day or two, making leftovers even better.
What can I serve this with?
Great question! We love pairing it with garlic mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. Add a side salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
Can I make it dairy-free?
You sure can. Swap out the heavy cream for canned coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative. Use plant-based butter, and you’re good to go!
Got more questions? Leave a comment below or tag us on social media with your creations—we love seeing how you make this recipe your own!

Conclusion
The Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet isn’t just a meal—it’s a flavor-packed experience that brings comfort, convenience, and restaurant-quality satisfaction to your dinner table. With its rich buttery sauce, golden-seared chicken, and just the right blend of spices, this dish captures the heart of Southern-style comfort food while paying homage to the creamy decadence of classic butter chicken.
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to make, even on a busy weekday. With minimal prep, one skillet, and simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, you can create a dinner that tastes like it took hours. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this skillet recipe checks all the boxes: it’s quick, satisfying, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing.
Plus, it’s flexible! You can tweak the spice level, swap in chicken thighs or breasts, serve it over rice or mashed potatoes, or pair it with roasted veggies. Want to dress it up? Add fresh herbs or shredded cheese on top. Need a dairy-free version? Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. It’s that versatile.
So next time you’re tempted to order takeout, skip the delivery apps and whip up this skillet favorite instead. You’ll save money, eat better, and impress everyone at the table—including yourself.
Still craving more one-pan wonders? Be sure to check out our other easy skillet recipes like Creamy Tuscan Chicken or Garlic Herb Pork Chops. But first, go make this butter chicken. Your taste buds will thank you!
PrintTexas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet: 5 Reasons You’ll Love It
This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is creamy, quick, and packed with bold flavor. A one-pan comfort meal your family will love again and again.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American / Southern-Inspired
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 medium garlic clove, minced
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional for spice)
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: sour cream or shredded cheese for topping
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken – Pat chicken dry and season with paprika, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken – In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tbsp oil. Add chicken and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce – In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp butter and garlic. Sauté 1 minute, then whisk in tomato paste, chicken broth, and cream. Simmer 5 minutes until thickened.
- Combine & Finish – Return chicken to the skillet. Stir to coat in sauce. Add remaining tablespoon of butter for extra richness. Simmer 2–3 more minutes.
- Serve Hot – Garnish with parsley, and top with sour cream or cheese if desired.
Notes
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Chicken Options: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result or stick with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
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Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or less chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes. Leave them out entirely for a kid-friendly version.
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Cream Substitutes: If you’re dairy-free, canned coconut milk or unsweetened almond cream works well in place of heavy cream.
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Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to thin it out. Too thin? Simmer uncovered a few extra minutes.
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Make it a Meal: Serve with mashed potatoes, garlic butter rice, or naan bread for the full comfort food experience.
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Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over low heat to keep the sauce creamy.
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Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly when reheated. Add a little cream when warming it up to restore the texture.