Have you ever sat down at Texas Roadhouse, ordered their famous buttery chicken, and thought, “Wow, I wish I could make this at home”? That tender chicken with smoky paprika, a touch of honey, and a buttery garlic sauce is unforgettable. The good news? You don’t need to make a restaurant trip every time you crave it. This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a simple one-pan recipe that brings all the flavor to your kitchen—without the hassle of a long prep or messy cleanup.
This dish is naturally gluten-free, comes together in under 30 minutes, and is perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family dinners. Imagine a skillet of juicy golden chicken bathed in a rich, buttery sauce, ready to pair with your favorite sides. It’s the kind of comfort food you’ll want on repeat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are hundreds of chicken skillet recipes out there, so why this one? Because it checks every box:
- Quick and easy – dinner on the table in 25 minutes.
- Minimal cleanup – one pan, no pile of dishes.
- Restaurant quality at home – buttery, smoky, garlicky flavors just like Texas Roadhouse.
- Family-friendly – even picky eaters love it.
- Versatile – pairs beautifully with everything from mashed potatoes to roasted veggies.
If you’re looking for a recipe that feels indulgent but doesn’t keep you in the kitchen all night, this is it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These simple pantry staples come together to create a sauce that’s buttery with just a hint of sweetness and smoky depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Flavor Base
In a small bowl, whisk together the butter, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will be the heart of your sauce, giving the chicken that signature Texas Roadhouse taste.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
3. Build the Sauce
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up all the browned bits from the bottom—that’s where the flavor hides. Stir in the butter mixture until it melts into a smooth, glossy sauce.
4. Finish the Dish
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld and the chicken soaks up that buttery goodness. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
What to Serve with Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken
This dish is versatile enough to pair with almost anything. Try it with:
- Mashed potatoes or baked potatoes to soak up the sauce.
- Rice, quinoa, or buttered noodles for a quick starch option.
- Roasted vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or carrots for balance.
- A crisp green salad if you want something lighter.
For a true restaurant-style experience, serve it with warm dinner rolls to swipe through the buttery sauce.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook the chicken in batches if needed to get a nice golden sear.
- Use a thermometer. The best way to avoid dry chicken is by checking the temperature—165°F is your goal.
- Add cream for richness. If you love creamy sauces, stir in ¼ cup heavy cream at the end.
- Make it spicy. A pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes adds heat without overpowering the buttery flavor.
- Try chicken thighs. If you prefer dark meat, thighs will give you extra juiciness.
Variations to Try
- Garlic Lovers’ Butter Chicken: Swap garlic powder for 3–4 cloves of fresh minced garlic.
- Herb Upgrade: Add thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for a herby twist.
- Lemon Butter Chicken: Squeeze in fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of pasta or potatoes.
Storing & Reheating
If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s that good), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium-low heat and add a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce smooth. Avoid microwaving too long—it can dry out the chicken and separate the sauce. This dish isn’t ideal for freezing, as the buttery sauce may not hold up well once thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Just use vegan butter or margarine. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Not really. The butter sauce tends to separate after thawing. Fresh or refrigerated leftovers are best.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Thighs are juicier and work beautifully in this recipe—just adjust the cooking time slightly.
How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer. Once it hits 165°F, it’s safe and perfectly juicy.
What sides taste best with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, rice, buttered noodles, or roasted vegetables are all excellent choices.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes. You can make the butter sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready, just sear the chicken and add the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is everything you want in a dinner—fast, flavorful, and comforting. It’s proof that restaurant-quality meals don’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a handful of ingredients and one skillet, you can whip up a dish that tastes like it came straight from your favorite steakhouse. So the next time you’re craving that buttery chicken from Texas Roadhouse, skip the takeout and make it yourself. Your taste buds—and your wallet—will thank you.
