When I think about comfort food, one dish always stands out: Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet. It’s that kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight. I first made this dish when I was craving something rich and savory that could feed my whole family without too much fuss. The tender, juicy chicken paired with a creamy, buttery sauce is so satisfying—it instantly became a family favorite.
As a busy mom of three, I’m always looking for recipes that are easy to prepare but still packed with flavor. This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet delivers on both fronts. It’s one of those dishes that takes minimal time in the kitchen but feels special enough for a cozy family dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to get my kids excited about eating chicken. If you’re anything like me, cooking is more than just a task—it’s a way to connect with the ones you love. This skillet recipe does just that, making every bite feel like an act of love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a game-changer in the world of weeknight dinners. With just a handful of simple ingredients, it brings bold, mouthwatering flavors that feel like a restaurant-worthy meal, but without the long wait or complicated prep. The chicken is perfectly seared and coated in a rich, creamy butter sauce that’s so irresistible, you’ll want to lick the skillet clean. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze, which is a lifesaver after a long day.
This recipe is great for busy families who need a hearty, satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. The butter sauce adds a touch of indulgence without being overly heavy, and the chicken turns out tender every time. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and convenience. What’s more, the kids will love it—who doesn’t enjoy a rich, flavorful dish served in a fun skillet?
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients come together to create a creamy, flavorful sauce that complements the chicken perfectly. The chicken broth and heavy cream provide the base for the sauce, while garlic and thyme add depth of flavor. The Parmesan brings a subtle richness that ties everything together.
Substitutions & Variations
While the recipe as written is delicious, there are a few substitutions and variations you can try based on what you have in your pantry or your family’s preferences:
- Chicken Breasts: You can swap out chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. They’ll add extra flavor and tenderness.
- Heavy Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter option, try substituting half-and-half or even a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut cream.
- Herbs: If you don’t have thyme on hand, feel free to use rosemary or Italian seasoning for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Parmesan: If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese will work just as well.
- Add Veggies: For a more well-rounded meal, you can toss in some veggies like spinach or mushrooms into the skillet while cooking the chicken.
This dish is versatile enough to adjust based on your taste or dietary preferences!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet. It’s so simple, and the results are always impressive!
- Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. - Make the Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. - Add Parmesan & Herbs
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and dried thyme. Continue to simmer for another 2 minutes, letting the cheese melt and the sauce become creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. - Return Chicken to the Skillet
Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes to soak in all that flavor. - Garnish & Serve
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately, and enjoy your delicious, creamy chicken skillet!
Pro Tips :
- Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider cutting them in half horizontally to ensure they cook evenly.
- Cooking Time: Be sure not to overcook the chicken! Use a meat thermometer to check that it’s at 165°F (74°C) when done.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: If you have one, use a cast iron skillet for a crispier sear on the chicken. It will also help retain the heat better, keeping the sauce hot longer.
Storage & Reheating Tips :
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare with this recipe!), you can store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the chicken dry out.
What to Serve With This Recipe :
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Here are a few ideas for sides that complement the rich, creamy flavors of the chicken:
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy butter sauce from the skillet will pour perfectly over a heap of buttery mashed potatoes, making for a hearty, comforting side.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus will add a fresh and nutritious contrast to the rich chicken.
- Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice. The rice will soak up all the creamy sauce, creating an amazing bite every time.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the leftover sauce. Warm, crispy garlic bread adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
FAQs : Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While the chicken is best enjoyed fresh, you can make the butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Simply reheat and add the chicken when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use a different protein?
Yes! This recipe is also delicious with boneless pork chops, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking times based on your protein of choice.
Can I freeze this dish?
We recommend not freezing this dish, as the cream-based sauce can sometimes separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick of heat. You could also drizzle some hot sauce over the chicken before serving.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Here’s the nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet:
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 550 |
Protein | 40g |
Total Fat | 36g |
Saturated Fat | 16g |
Cholesterol | 105mg |
Carbohydrates | 5g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sugar | 2g |
Sodium | 600mg |
This dish provides a solid amount of protein, healthy fats, and a touch of carbs, making it filling and satisfying. While it’s on the richer side, it’s still a balanced meal when paired with the right sides.
PrintTexas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a creamy, savory one-pan dinner that combines tender chicken with a rich, flavorful butter sauce. Perfect for busy families, this dish is quick, easy, and delicious!
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 tbsp garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. 1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. 2. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add heavy cream and chicken broth, simmer for 3-4 minutes.
3. 3. Stir in Parmesan and thyme. Simmer for another 2 minutes.
4. 4. Return chicken to skillet and spoon sauce over. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. 5. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 105mg