The aroma of sizzling butter and herbs wafting through my kitchen transported me back to that memorable evening at Texas Roadhouse, where the servers danced between tables and the smell of freshly baked rolls filled the air. There’s something magical about recreating those restaurant experiences at home, especially when it comes to their iconic butter-infused dishes. This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet recipe captures that same comforting essence while letting you control exactly what goes into your meal.
Did you know that butter-based pan sauces are considered one of the foundational techniques in French cuisine, dating back centuries? Today, I’m sharing my perfected version of Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet that has become a weekly staple in my home—a dish that combines simplicity with restaurant-worthy flavor.
Table of Contents
Why This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe Works
Creating restaurant-quality meals at home doesn’t have to be complicated. This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor, using everyday ingredients to create something truly special. If you’re looking to elevate your chicken cooking skills, check out this Perfect Pan-Seared Chicken Breasts Guide for essential techniques. The smoked paprika in this recipe adds an incredible depth of flavor—learn more about selecting the right variety in this Understanding Smoked Paprika Varieties guide. For more Texas Roadhouse-inspired recipes, this creamy Texas Roadhouse butter chicken skillet version offers a richer alternative, while these air fryer honey butter garlic chicken tenders provide a lighter option with similar flavor notes.
Ingredients for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet ngredients
| 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds) 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for a higher smoke point) ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature 2 teaspoons honey (local, if possible) 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 3 fresh garlic cloves, minced) 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (sweet or hot, depending on preference) ½ teaspoon salt (kosher salt works best) ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper ¼ cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred) 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) |
The moment I unwrap a fresh stick of butter and watch it slowly soften on my countertop, I know something wonderful is about to happen in my kitchen. For this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet, that butter transforms into a velvety sauce that coats each piece of chicken with a glossy, aromatic finish that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredient Spotlight
Chicken Breasts
The star protein in this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet provides a blank canvas that absorbs all the wonderful flavors we’re building. Chicken breasts work beautifully because they cook quickly and remain tender when prepared properly. For even cooking, consider pounding them to an even thickness of about ¾ inch.
Unsalted Butter
The foundation of our sauce! Using unsalted butter gives you complete control over the salt content. The butter adds richness, creates a silky mouthfeel, and carries the aromatic flavors throughout the dish. Its milk solids brown slightly during cooking, adding a nutty dimension that elevates the entire Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.
Honey
Just a touch of honey balances the savory elements with subtle sweetness that caramelizes slightly when heated. This ingredient is key to achieving that signature Texas Roadhouse flavor profile—adding complexity without overpowering the dish.
Smoked Paprika
This spice is the secret weapon in your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet. Unlike regular paprika, the smoked variety adds a subtle woodsy dimension that mimics the flavor of cooking over open flames—exactly what gives Texas Roadhouse dishes their distinctive character.
Chicken Broth
The broth performs double duty: it deglazes the pan (capturing all those flavorful brown bits from searing the chicken) and creates the perfect consistency for our butter sauce. Using low-sodium broth ensures your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet doesn’t become too salty.
Timing
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet comes together 35% faster than most restaurant-style chicken recipes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. The active cooking time is minimal—most of your effort goes into the initial prep, then the skillet does the rest of the work!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Butter Mixture
In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use a fork to thoroughly incorporate all ingredients until you have a smooth, uniform compound butter. The speckled reddish-brown mixture should have a consistency similar to softened ice cream. Set aside while you prepare the chicken.
Pro tip: Allow your butter to fully soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes before making the mixture. Cold butter won’t incorporate the spices evenly, affecting the final flavor of your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.
Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this is crucial for achieving a good sear. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Pro tip: Resist the urge to move the chicken around once it’s in the pan. Letting it sit undisturbed creates that beautiful golden crust that’s essential for authentic Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet flavor.
Step 3: Remove and Rest the Chicken
Once cooked through, transfer the chicken breasts to a clean plate and tent loosely with foil. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet remains moist and tender.
Step 4: Create the Signature Butter Sauce
With the chicken resting, return to the skillet (keep all those flavorful bits in there!). Reduce heat to medium-low and add the chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this is called deglazing and it’s where tremendous flavor comes from.
Once the broth is simmering, add the prepared butter mixture, stirring constantly as it melts. The sauce will begin to thicken slightly and take on a beautiful glossy appearance. Continue cooking for about 2 minutes until the sauce is smooth and slightly reduced.
Pro tip: If your sauce separates or looks greasy, add a tablespoon of cold water and whisk vigorously to re-emulsify.
Step 5: Return Chicken to the Skillet
Gently place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, including any juices that have accumulated on the plate. Spoon the sauce over each piece repeatedly to coat them thoroughly. Allow everything to simmer together for 2-3 minutes, which gives the chicken time to absorb some of that incredible buttery sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet just before serving. This adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness of the butter sauce.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Temperature matters: Start with room-temperature chicken breasts for more even cooking. Cold chicken directly from the refrigerator will cook unevenly and might seize up in the hot pan. Cast iron advantage: While any skillet works, a well-seasoned cast iron skillet gives the best sear and heat retention for this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet recipe, creating those restaurant-quality results. Butter quality: Since butter is a starring ingredient, use the highest quality you can afford. European-style butters with higher fat content will create an even more luxurious sauce. Compound butter prep: Make the butter mixture up to 3 days in advance and store it wrapped in parchment in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before using in your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet. Thickness control: For chicken breasts of varying thickness, butterfly the thicker ones or pound them between plastic wrap to ensure they cook at the same rate. |
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
Creamy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Add ¼ cup of heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk to the sauce for an even richer, silkier version that’s reminiscent of a lighter Alfredo sauce. This variation creates a more abundant sauce that’s perfect for spooning over sides.
Herb-Forward Version
Incorporate fresh herbs into both the butter mixture and as garnish. Try 1 teaspoon each of finely chopped fresh thyme and rosemary in the butter mixture, then garnish with additional herbs for a garden-fresh twist on the classic Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.
Spicy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Add ¼ to ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture and consider adding a diced jalapeño (seeds removed) to the skillet when making the sauce. This creates a pleasant heat that builds gradually with each bite.
Gluten-Free Option
This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, but always double-check your chicken broth ingredient list to ensure it contains no gluten-derived additives or thickeners.
Behind the Recipe
My fascination with recreating Texas Roadhouse flavors at home began after a memorable anniversary dinner where the butter-infused dishes left such an impression that I couldn’t stop thinking about them. Through countless test batches and experiments with different butter-to-seasoning ratios, this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet emerged as the closest homemade version to the restaurant experience.
What makes this recipe special is the technique of creating a compound butter first, rather than just tossing individual seasonings into the pan. This allows the flavors to meld completely and creates that signature velvety sauce that coats each bite of chicken perfectly.
Pairing Ideas
The rich, buttery nature of this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet pairs beautifully with sides that can either complement or contrast with its decadence:
- Garlic mashed potatoes: The ultimate comfort food companion that soaks up every drop of that delicious sauce.
- Steamed green vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus provide a fresh contrast to the rich chicken.
- Simple garden salad: A light, vinaigrette-dressed salad cuts through the richness of the butter sauce.
- Cauliflower rice: For a lighter option that still absorbs all those wonderful flavors.
- Beverages: Sparkling water with lemon, unsweetened iced tea, or a refreshing cucumber-mint infused water all complement the richness of the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.
Leftover & Reuse Ideas
Your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet transforms beautifully into next-day meals:
- Chicken and butter sauce pasta: Slice the leftover chicken thinly and toss with pasta, adding a splash of cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Loaded butter chicken quesadillas: Chop the chicken, mix with a bit of the leftover sauce, and use as a quesadilla filling with cheese.
- Texas Roadhouse-inspired chicken salad: Dice the chicken and mix with a touch of mayo, celery, and green onions for a flavorful sandwich filling.
- Chicken and rice bowl: Serve sliced leftover chicken over rice with steamed vegetables for a quick lunch option.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet (one chicken breast with sauce) contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 29g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Sodium: 380mg
Values are approximate and based on standard ingredient measurements.
Serving Suggestions
Present your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet with restaurant-worthy flair:
- Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation that showcases the glossy sauce.
- Slice the chicken on a bias (diagonally) before plating to expose the juicy interior and create a more elegant presentation.
- Drizzle additional sauce over each portion just before serving.
- Add a small sprinkle of flaky sea salt and fresh cracked pepper as a finishing touch.
- Consider a lemon wedge on the side for those who enjoy brightening rich dishes with a touch of acidity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the Chicken
Problem: Dry, tough chicken that doesn’t absorb the sauce well.
Solution: Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken from heat once it reaches 165°F. Remember that it will continue cooking slightly during the resting period.
Sauce Breaking or Separating
Problem: Greasy, split sauce instead of a smooth, emulsified one.
Solution: Keep your heat moderate and incorporate the butter gradually. If separation occurs, a splash of cold water and vigorous whisking usually fixes it.
Underseasoned Dish
Problem: Bland flavor despite all the buttery goodness.
Solution: Season at multiple stages—lightly salt the chicken before cooking, ensure adequate salt in your butter mixture, and taste the final sauce before returning the chicken to the skillet.
Burning the Garlic
Problem: Bitter, acrid notes in your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.
Solution: Using garlic powder in the butter mixture prevents burning. If using fresh garlic, add it later in the cooking process and monitor the heat carefully.
Skipping the Deglazing Step
Problem: Missing out on concentrated flavor in your sauce.
Solution: Don’t rush past the deglazing step—those browned bits (fond) at the bottom of the pan contain incredible flavor compounds that are essential to authentic Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store leftover Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The butter sauce may solidify when chilled—this is completely normal.
For best reheating results:
- Microwave: Place chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat at 70% power in 30-second intervals until warmed through (about 2 minutes total).
- Stovetop: For superior texture, reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a tablespoon of water added to create steam and prevent drying out.
- Meal prep potential: This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet can be partially prepared ahead—make the compound butter up to 3 days in advance and store refrigerated until needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet recipe authentic?
The combination of honey, butter, and smoked paprika creates that signature Texas Roadhouse flavor profile. The technique of making a compound butter that melts into a sauce replicates the restaurant’s approach to creating rich, flavorful coatings for their proteins.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and often stay juicier. Adjust cooking time to about 4-5 minutes per side, as thighs typically cook faster than breasts but are more forgiving of longer cooking times.
Is Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet spicy?
As written, this recipe has a mild, warming flavor from the smoked paprika but isn’t spicy. For heat, add cayenne pepper to taste or include red pepper flakes when making the sauce.
Can I make Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet dairy-free?
While butter is central to this recipe, you can substitute a high-quality plant-based butter. The flavor profile will be slightly different, but many plant-based butters now mimic the richness of dairy butter quite well.
How do I know when my chicken is perfectly cooked in the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet?
The most reliable method is using an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast—it should read 165°F. Visually, the chicken should have no pink inside, and the juices should run clear when pierced.
Conclusion
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet brings the beloved restaurant experience into your home kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The combination of tender chicken and that signature buttery sauce creates a meal that feels indulgent yet comes together quickly enough for weeknight cooking. What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility—it’s impressive enough for guests but simple enough for everyday meals.
The key to success lies in honoring the ingredients: giving the chicken a proper sear, creating a well-balanced butter mixture, and taking the time to develop the sauce properly. These small attentions to detail elevate a simple concept into something truly memorable.
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How to Make the Best Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Texas Roadhouse-Style Butter Chicken Skillet recreates the restaurant favorite at home with tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich honey-butter sauce. The combination of smoked paprika, garlic, and a touch of sweetness creates an irresistible glaze that perfectly complements the golden-seared chicken. Ready in just 20 minutes, this one-pan dinner is perfect for busy weeknights when you want restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 tsp honey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Butter Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine butter, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Deglaze and Create Sauce: In the same skillet, add chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the prepared butter mixture and cook until smooth and melted.
- Combine and Simmer: Return chicken to the skillet and coat thoroughly with the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety. Sauce Variations: For a creamier sauce, add 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream or coconut milk. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat. Serving Suggestions: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Also pairs well with roasted vegetables or a simple side salad. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the chicken. Pro Tip: Don’t skip deglazing the pan – those browned bits add incredible flavor to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1 chicken breast with sauce)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: texas roadhouse chicken, butter chicken, skillet chicken, honey garlic chicken, restaurant copycat