Irresistible Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe You Need to Try

When I first stumbled upon the idea of a Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet, I was immediately intrigued. Combining the comforting richness of butter chicken with the rustic ease of a skillet meal felt like the perfect fit for busy weeknights in my San Diego kitchen. This dish has quickly become one of those meals that brings my family together, especially when my kids are insisting on pancakes for dinner but I know we need something a bit heartier. It’s a recipe that balances bold flavors with simplicity, reminding me of the afternoons spent cooking alongside my mum back in England—where food was always more about connection than perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

This recipe stands out for its incredible ease without sacrificing flavor. The skillet method means minimal cleanup—something every busy parent or home cook will appreciate. The sauce, creamy and buttery with just the right hint of spices, captures that cozy warmth I remember from my grandmother’s kitchen. Plus, it’s flexible enough to adjust for whatever you have on hand. I’ve found it perfect for those nights when I want comfort food but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

this RECIPE

The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients that bring freshness and depth without fuss. I always reach for quality chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor, and a good butter—unsalted, so you can control the seasoning—is essential. Fresh garlic and ginger add that authentic warmth, while canned tomatoes help create a luscious base. If you’re like me, you’ll appreciate the balance of pantry staples and fresh items that come together quickly.

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 28g (mostly from butter and cream)
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g (naturally from tomatoes and onions)
• Sodium: 450mg (variable depending on added salt)

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Steps to Create Your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted and bubbling, add the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid browning.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Sprinkle in the garam masala, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Stir to coat the onions and toast the spices slightly, about 30 seconds.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce. Pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk and stir well. Reduce heat to low and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and sauce is creamy.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Tips for Making the Best Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

Getting this dish just right is about layering flavors and paying attention to texture. When I was learning to cook in restaurant kitchens, timing was everything—especially with poultry. Overcooked chicken can quickly dry out, so watch carefully during the final simmer. Butter chicken is all about richness balanced with spices, so don’t rush the sautéing of onions and spices; that step builds your flavor foundation.

• Use chicken thighs for tenderness and flavor – breasts can dry out easily
• Toast your spices briefly to release their aroma and deepen flavor
• Simmer the sauce gently to avoid separating the cream
• Add the cream at the end to keep the sauce silky
• Fresh ginger and garlic make a huge difference—don’t skip or substitute powders
• For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt, adding it off heat

With these tips, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish every time. Learn more: related recipe Learn more: Irresistibly Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet Recipe You Need to Try

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This dish is incredibly versatile and works beautifully for various occasions—from a cozy weeknight dinner to weekend entertaining. I often serve it with fluffy basmati rice, which soaks up that buttery sauce perfectly. When I’m short on time, warm naan bread becomes my go-to for scooping and sharing. A fresh cucumber and tomato salad with a lemony vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

• Serve over steamed basmati rice or with garlic naan
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with lemon
• Add a simple cucumber and tomato salad with fresh herbs
• Try roasted seasonal vegetables on the side for added texture

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish never fails to impress and create moments of warmth around the table.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftovers just as much as the fresh dish—something I rely on when juggling family life and busy evenings. This butter chicken skillet keeps well and reheats beautifully with a few simple tricks.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Add a splash of cream or water when reheating to restore creamy texture
• Reheat gently over low heat on the stove to prevent the sauce from breaking
• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in fridge before reheating

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet?

The main ingredients for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet?

The total time to make Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet ahead of time?

Yes, Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet?

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy making and sharing this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet as my family and I do. It’s a dish that brings together simple ingredients, bold flavors, and the kind of comfort food that feels like home. Please do share how your skillet turns out—I love hearing your stories from the kitchen!