Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken

This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is my go-to for a fast weeknight dinner bursting with comforting flavors and creamy sauce. Each bite is rich with savory notes and a hint of spice, making this dish an instant favorite for family meals that demand seconds.

I actually whipped this up when my pantry was a little bare and my family now requests it any time we crave something satisfying without extra work after a long day.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Sliced for quick cooking and juicy results
• Butter: For rich finish and authentic flavor choose real unsalted butter for best taste
• Heavy cream: Creates a silky sauce and a luscious texture go for freshest cream you can find
• Garlic powder: Brings warmth and depth look for a sweet smelling powder for best aroma
• Paprika: Offers color and mild smokiness sweet paprika gives the brightest color
• Onion: Gives sweetness and a savory base use a fresh onion that feels heavy and firm
• Salt and pepper: Pull flavors together try freshly ground pepper for better aroma
• Chicken broth: Helps blend all flavors and keep the sauce moist go for low sodium to control seasoning
• Dried thyme: Lifts the sauce with herby notes rub the thyme between your fingers to release more aroma

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep and Sauté the Onion:

Dice the onion as fine as you can for even sautéing. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and beginning to foam. Add the onions to the skillet and stir them frequently. Let onions cook gently for about five minutes or until they become soft and golden. This step builds a mellow sweetness at the heart of your dish.

Season and Brown the Chicken:

While onions soften season the chicken pieces all over with garlic powder paprika salt and pepper. Spread the chicken evenly in the skillet with the onions. Let the chicken sear untouched for a couple of minutes to get a deep golden color. Stir to turn pieces and brown on all sides. It is important to avoid crowding the pan so each piece caramelizes rather than steams.

Simmer with Broth:

Pour in the chicken broth scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to lift up flavor packed bits. Turn the heat down just a notch and let the chicken simmer for five minutes. The broth will bubble and begin to pull all those flavors together.

Finish with Cream:

Lower the heat to prevent curdling and stir in the heavy cream. Keep stirring as you pour so the cream blends smoothly. Let the whole skillet cook for about five minutes. The sauce should begin to thicken slightly and coat the chicken pieces.

Serve and Garnish:

You can sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme right before serving. Spoon the buttery creamy chicken over rice or alongside warm bread. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Butter always feels like the star here It melts into the creamy sauce and takes everything up a level My kids love to help swirl butter into the skillet for that signature sizzle and aroma

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days The rich sauce stays velvety and the chicken remains tender Warm gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave If the sauce thickens too much add a tiny splash of broth or cream while reheating for a silky texture

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version swap half and half for the heavy cream though the sauce will be less rich Boneless thighs work beautifully instead of breasts if you prefer a juicier bite Fresh herbs can replace dried thyme for extra color and aroma You can even mix in some spinach or peas near the end for added veggies

Serving Suggestions

Pair this buttery chicken with fluffy rice creamy mashed potatoes or even soft flatbread to soak up every drop of sauce Steamed green beans or a simple side salad complete the meal beautifully For gatherings serve the skillet family style straight from the pan to keep things easy and relaxed

Cultural Context

While Texas Roadhouse is famous for its cinnamon butter this recipe borrows inspiration from their love of bold comforting flavors Butter chicken itself has Indian roots but here it blends garlic cream and paprika for a Southern American twist that is both familiar and fresh Every region adds its own spin on skillet chicken and this one leans into creamy Southern comfort

Each time you make this you may find a new family favorite twist—do not be afraid to improvise and make it your own.

Recipe Q&A

→ What kind of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for even cooking and tender results, but thighs can be used for extra juiciness.

→ Can I substitute the cream?

Half-and-half or evaporated milk works as lighter alternatives, but heavy cream provides the richest, creamiest sauce.

→ Is it spicy?

Paprika adds mild warmth without heat. For extra spice, a pinch of cayenne chili powder can be stirred in with the seasonings.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, buttered noodles, or crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream.