Name: Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet: Copycat Recipe!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 tbsp olive oil (for chicken); 1 tsp sea salt; ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper; ½ tsp sweet paprika; ¼ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp onion powder; ¼ cup unsalted butter, divided; 1 large yellow onion, finely diced; 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 large bell pepper, diced into ½-inch pieces; 3 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ tsp dried thyme; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet – the very name conjures images of savory comfort and that distinctly craveable flavor profile we often seek from our favorite casual dining spots. I’ve always been captivated by how certain restaurant dishes become legendary, and the idea of a butter chicken skillet, reimagined with that hearty, satisfying American touch, is truly genius. While classic butter chicken has a rich and storied history rooted in Indian cuisine, our rendition takes inspiration from its deeply flavorful, creamy essence and adapts it into a convenient, family-friendly skillet meal that echoes the generous spirit of a Texas Roadhouse experience.

It’s the perfect harmony of tender chicken, a luscious, spiced sauce, and the ultimate ease of a one-pan wonder. You’ll discover why this dish garners such immense love: its incredibly tender chicken, enveloped in a sauce that balances rich creaminess with aromatic spices, making every bite an absolute delight. This recipe is designed to bring that exceptional taste, without the wait, right into your kitchen. Preparing your own Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet at home means you get to enjoy a truly special meal that’s both comforting and exciting, perfect for any weeknight or a relaxed weekend gathering.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes (or chicken thighs for even more tenderness and juiciness)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus an additional 1-2 tablespoons for searing
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (or kosher salt)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
For the Creamy Skillet Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided (2 tablespoons for sautéing vegetables, 2 tablespoons for enriching the sauce)
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced (about 1.5 cups)
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced (about 1 teaspoon)
- 1 large bell pepper (I love a red or orange one for sweetness and color, but any color works), cored, deseeded, and diced into ½-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (full-fat is essential for that rich, luscious texture)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or dried oregano, if preferred)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a subtle warmth and hint of spice, easily adjusted)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Prepping the Chicken and Vegetables: Setting the Stage for Flavor

Before we even think about turning on the stove, a little bit of preparation, or “mise en place,” goes a long way. It makes the cooking process so much smoother and more enjoyable, allowing you to focus on building those incredible layers of flavor for your “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.”

Prepare the Chicken: Let’s start with our star ingredient – the chicken! Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if you’ve opted for them for their inherent juiciness). Place them on a clean, sturdy cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes. The goal here is consistency in size, as this ensures that all the chicken pieces cook evenly and thoroughly. Nobody wants an undercooked or overcooked piece in the same bite! Once you’ve got them all cubed up, transfer the chicken to a medium-sized mixing bowl.
Season the Chicken: Now, let’s infuse that chicken with some foundational flavor. To the bowl with your cubed chicken, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Follow that with 1 teaspoon of sea salt, ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, ½ teaspoon of sweet paprika (which adds a lovely warmth and color), ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon of onion powder. These seasonings create a delicious savory base. Use your clean hands or a spoon to toss everything together, making sure each and every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated. This vital step builds the first layer of the incredible taste profile for our Texas Roadhouse-inspired dish. Set the seasoned chicken aside while you move on to the vegetables.
Dice the Onion: Grab your large yellow onion. First, carefully trim off both the root and stem ends. Then, peel away the dry, papery outer layers to reveal the firm, white flesh underneath. Place one half of the onion cut-side down on your cutting board. Make several vertical cuts from the root end almost to the stem end (but don’t cut all the way through, so the onion stays intact). Then, make one or two horizontal cuts. Finally, dice the onion into small, uniform pieces. Repeat this process with the other half. Finely diced onion is key here, as it will soften and melt into our creamy sauce, providing a sweet and savory base without being overtly chunky, which is perfect for a smooth skillet dish.
Mince the Garlic: Next up, the fragrant garlic. Peel your two cloves of fresh garlic. For mincing, you have a couple of options: you can either use a garlic press, which yields very fine pieces, or if you’re using a knife, crush the cloves slightly with the flat side of your knife blade. This makes them easier to peel and releases some of their aromatic oils. Then, finely chop them until you have a paste-like consistency. Remember, fresh garlic makes a world of difference in flavor!
Dice the Bell Pepper: Wash your chosen bell pepper(s) thoroughly under cool running water. Carefully cut around the stem to remove it, then slice the pepper in half lengthwise and scoop out all the seeds and white membranes. Place the pepper halves skin-side down on your cutting board. Slice them into even strips, then turn your board and dice these strips into neat ½-inch pieces. Using a mix of red and green bell peppers can add a wonderful splash of vibrant color and a slightly different sweet-savory note, making the dish even more visually appealing and texturally interesting.
Gather Remaining Ingredients: Before we heat up that skillet, take a moment to measure out your chicken broth, heavy cream, all-purpose flour, and the remaining butter. Having everything prepped and within easy reach on your counter – a true testament to the “mise en place” philosophy – will make the upcoming cooking process smooth, efficient, and enjoyable, ensuring you don’t miss a beat or frantically search for an ingredient mid-sauté.

Cooking the Chicken and Building the Flavor Base: The Heart of the Skillet

Now that our ingredients are prepped and ready, it’s time to bring some heat! This next phase is all about building the foundational flavors that will make your “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet” truly memorable.

Sear the Chicken: Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. I highly recommend a cast-iron skillet if you have one, as it holds heat beautifully and provides a fantastic sear. Add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil to the hot pan. Once the oil shimmers and just begins to smoke faintly, carefully add the seasoned chicken cubes to the skillet. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in two batches. Overcrowding will lower the pan’s temperature and cause the chicken to steam rather than sear, preventing that delicious golden-brown crust we’re aiming for. Allow the chicken to sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side, until it develops a beautiful golden-brown and slightly caramelized crust. The goal here isn’t to cook the chicken all the way through; we’re simply building flavor and creating a delicious exterior. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a clean plate. It will finish cooking through in the luscious sauce later.
Sauté the Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the same skillet, allowing it to melt and coat the bottom of the pan. Once the butter is shimmering, add your finely diced yellow onion and the diced bell pepper. Sauté, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon or spatula, for about 5-7 minutes. You want the onions to soften and become translucent, and the bell peppers to begin tenderizing and releasing their natural sugars. During this process, be sure to scrape up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan with your spoon – these are packed with incredible flavor from the chicken and will become part of our glorious sauce!
Add the Garlic: At this point, add your minced garlic to the skillet. Continue to sauté for just another 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. Garlic cooks quickly, and burnt garlic can turn bitter very fast. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen is filled with that unmistakable, wonderful aroma. This fragrant addition truly signifies the start of a deeply flavorful and aromatic sauce that will bring our “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet” to life.

Crafting the Creamy Skillet Sauce: The Signature Texas Roadhouse Indulgence

This is where the magic happens! We’re now going to transform our flavorful base into a rich, velvety, and utterly irresistible sauce – the hallmark of any great comfort food, especially one with “butter” in its name!

Make the Roux: Sprinkle the 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour evenly over the sautéed onions, bell peppers, and garlic in the skillet. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes, thoroughly incorporating the flour into the vegetable mixture. This crucial step allows the flour to cook out, which helps to eliminate any raw flour taste. As you stir, the mixture will become slightly pasty and might even take on a very light golden hue; this is exactly what we want as it forms our roux, which will serve as the primary thickening agent for our luscious sauce.
Whisk in the Broth: Gradually pour in the 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, starting with a small amount (about ¼ cup). Whisk vigorously and constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Once that small amount is smooth, add a little more broth, continuing to whisk until smooth, and then repeat until all the chicken broth has been incorporated. This gradual addition and continuous whisking technique ensures a perfectly smooth and creamy sauce base. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, continuing to whisk occasionally, and you’ll observe the sauce beginning to visibly thicken as the roux activates.
Introduce Cream and Seasonings: Once the sauce has thickened slightly and is simmering gently, reduce the heat to low. Now, pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well to combine the cream thoroughly with the thickened broth mixture. At this stage, add the ½ teaspoon of dried thyme (or oregano, if you chose that herb) and the optional ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well incorporated, and the sauce achieves a uniform color and consistency. The aroma at this point is simply divine!
Season to Perfection: This is a critical moment for flavor. Take a small spoonful of the sauce and taste it carefully. Now is the time to adjust the seasonings to your personal preference. Add more salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Remember, a well-seasoned sauce is the very heart of any truly great dish. If you feel it needs a little more depth or a slight kick, a tiny pinch more garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne can be added. Don’t be shy about tasting and adjusting; this ensures the sauce is perfectly balanced.
Enrich with Butter: For that signature “Texas Roadhouse” richness, incredible velvety texture, and a beautiful glossy finish, stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt completely into the warm sauce, stirring continuously until it’s fully incorporated and the sauce looks luxuriously smooth and gleaming. This final addition of butter not only enhances the flavor profile but also significantly contributes to the overall mouthfeel, making the sauce truly irresistible.

Finishing the Skillet and Serving: The Grand Finale

We’re on the home stretch! All our hard work is about to pay off as we bring all the delicious components together to create your show-stopping “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.”

Return Chicken to Skillet: Gently slide all the beautifully seared chicken cubes back into the skillet, nestling them down into that glorious, creamy sauce. Use your spoon to ensure that all the chicken pieces are submerged or thoroughly coated by the rich sauce. This allows them to absorb all the incredible flavors while they finish cooking.
Simmer to Perfection: Cover the skillet with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and let the dish simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes. This simmering time is crucial: it allows the chicken to finish cooking through completely (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and become incredibly tender. It also gives the flavors a chance to meld and deepen even further, and the sauce will continue to thicken to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking to the bottom of the pan and to ensure even cooking and distribution of heat.
Final Adjustments and Garnish: Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is perfectly thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Give the sauce one last taste test. If it needs any final seasoning adjustments – perhaps a touch more pepper or a tiny sprinkle of salt – now is the moment to do it. While not strictly Texas Roadhouse, sometimes a tiny squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up a rich sauce, but for true authenticity, it’s often skipped.
Garnish and Serve Hot: Before bringing your masterpiece to the table, sprinkle generously with the fresh chopped parsley. The vibrant green not only adds a beautiful visual contrast to the rich, creamy sauce but also introduces a fresh, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness wonderfully. Serve your magnificent “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet” straight from the skillet, family-style, allowing everyone to admire its comforting appeal before digging in.

Serving Suggestions for Your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

This incredibly comforting and flavorful skillet dish, with its tender chicken and luxurious creamy sauce, pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, truly completing that beloved “Texas Roadhouse” experience right in your own home. Here are some of my absolute favorite recommendations to make your meal complete:

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: This is arguably the ultimate classic pairing. The light, airy, and incredibly rich mashed potatoes are absolutely perfect for soaking up every last drop of that decadent cream sauce. It’s a match made in comfort food heaven, providing a satisfying texture contrast and a delicious way to enjoy every bit of flavor.
Fluffy White Rice: If you prefer something a little lighter than mashed potatoes, a simple bed of fluffy white rice – such as fragrant jasmine or basmati – serves as an excellent, neutral canvas. It allows the robust and creamy flavors of the chicken and sauce to truly shine, while also providing a satisfying base.
Warm Dinner Rolls or Garlic Bread: Oh, you simply cannot forget something to sop up all that glorious sauce! Freshly baked, soft dinner rolls, perhaps brushed with a little melted butter, or slices of warm, homemade garlic bread are absolutely essential. Dip them, dunk them, and enjoy every single savory drop of that amazing skillet sauce.
Steamed Green Beans or Asparagus: To add a touch of much-needed freshness, a vibrant splash of green color, and a lighter element to your meal, a simple side of perfectly steamed green beans or roasted asparagus can balance the richness of the dish beautifully. A light drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a crack of black pepper are all they need.
Simple Side Salad: For another refreshing contrast, a crisp, invigorating side salad with a light vinaigrette would provide a lovely counterpoint to the creamy, hearty nature of the skillet. Think fresh greens, a few cherry tomatoes, and a light, tangy dressing.

Enjoy your homemade “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet”! It’s a dish that’s absolutely sure to impress and deeply satisfy everyone at your table with its rich flavors, tender chicken, and comforting warmth. It’s truly a taste of cozy indulgence.

Conclusion:

Well, friends, we’ve journeyed through the creation of what I truly believe will become a cherished staple in your kitchen. This isn’t just another chicken dish; it’s a culinary experience that effortlessly marries comfort with incredible flavor, transforming simple ingredients into something truly spectacular. From the moment the spices hit the pan to the first creamy bite, you’ll understand exactly why this recipe is a non-negotiable must-try. I pour my heart into developing recipes that deliver maximum flavor with accessible steps, and this one, in particular, holds a special place because it consistently impresses with its depth and richness.

What makes this specific rendition of our beloved Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet so irresistible? It’s the perfect harmony of tender, succulent chicken pieces luxuriating in a velvety, spiced tomato-cream sauce, all brought together in a single skillet for ultimate ease. The aroma alone is enough to draw everyone to the kitchen, promising a meal that is both profoundly satisfying and incredibly comforting. Imagine the golden-brown chicken, perfectly caramelized, enveloped in that vibrant, aromatic sauce – it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate. This dish manages to feel both exotic and familiar, hitting all the right notes for a memorable dinner, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special weekend gathering with loved ones.

Elevate Your Dining Experience: Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the art of creating this show-stopping skillet, let’s talk about how to present it and even put your own creative spin on it. For the quintessential serving experience, I wholeheartedly recommend pairing your buttery chicken with a steaming pile of fluffy basmati or jasmine rice. The grains are perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delectable sauce, ensuring no flavor goes to waste. But don’t stop there! Warm, pillowy naan bread is an absolute game-changer; tear it, dip it, and scoop up all that glorious sauce – it’s an interactive and utterly delicious way to enjoy the meal. For a refreshing counterpoint to the richness, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or some quickly steamed green beans would be absolutely delightful.

Feeling adventurous? The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Consider adding a handful of fresh spinach or some vibrant bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra boost of color and nutrition. For those who prefer a little more heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely minced green chili can be stirred in with the other spices. If you’re looking to make this dairy-free, full-fat coconut milk makes an excellent substitute for the heavy cream, lending a slightly different but equally delicious tropical twist to the sauce. For a plant-based alternative, cubed firm tofu or chickpeas can be pan-fried and then simmered in the sauce, creating a hearty vegetarian option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. A final flourish of fresh cilantro and a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream can add a beautiful finish and a tangy contrast that brightens the whole dish.

Your Culinary Journey Awaits!

I genuinely cannot express how excited I am for you to try this recipe. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that I believe will bring a little extra joy and a lot of incredible flavor to your table. Imagine the smiles around your dinner table when this magnificent skillet takes center stage. I truly believe that once you taste this incredible Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet, it will quickly earn a permanent spot in your rotation of favorite recipes. The satisfaction of cooking something so delicious from scratch is unparalleled, and this dish truly delivers on that promise of culinary achievement.

So, please, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and embark on this flavorful adventure. And when you do, I would absolutely love to hear all about it! Don’t hesitate to share your culinary triumphs, your photos, and any creative variations you come up with. Your feedback and experiences mean the world to me and to our growing community of home cooks. What did you pair it with? Did you add your own special touch? Let me know in the comments below! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how much you adore this dish as much as I do!