Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet (Bold, Buttery, One-Pan Favorite)

This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet isn’t your traditional Indian-style butter chicken—it’s a Southern-inspired, skillet-seared dish bursting with rich, savory flavor and comfort food charm. Think juicy chicken coated in a smoky-spiced rub, seared to golden perfection, and finished with a creamy, garlicky compound butter sauce—just like the one you crave from Texas Roadhouse.

This dish brings together steakhouse-style flavors with the ease of a one-skillet meal, making it ideal for busy weeknights, hearty family dinners, or even casual date nights. Served with mashed potatoes, rice, or over green beans, it’s a buttery, bold twist on your favorite chicken dinner.

---

Ingredients Overview

Here’s a look at what makes this skillet chicken so irresistible.

Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Sliced into cutlets or pounded evenly so they cook fast and stay juicy.

• Olive oil or butter: Used for searing and flavoring the chicken.

Seasoning Rub

• Paprika: For warmth and color.

• Garlic powder: Adds depth and umami.

• Onion powder: Brings subtle sweetness.

• Salt & black pepper: Basic but essential.

• Brown sugar: For a hint of caramelized flavor.

• Smoked paprika or chipotle powder (optional): Adds smokiness reminiscent of Texas-style BBQ.

Texas Roadhouse-Style Garlic Butter

• Unsalted butter (softened): The base for a rich, finishing sauce.

• Minced garlic: Bold, aromatic flavor.

• Parsley: Freshness and color.

• Salt: Just enough to season the butter.

• Optional: a splash of lemon juice: Brightens the richness.

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix softened unsalted butter with garlic, parsley, and a pinch of salt. Mash together until well blended. Cover and refrigerate until needed.

2. Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with the spice rub: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and brown sugar. Rub it in well so it forms a flavorful crust when seared.

3. Sear the Chicken

Heat 1–2 tablespoons of oil in a large cast iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until deeply golden and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F / 74°C). Work in batches if needed.

4. Add Butter & Finish

Turn heat to low. Add dollops of the garlic butter over each piece of chicken while still in the pan. Let it melt and spoon the butter over the chicken to coat. You’ll see it turn glossy and smell incredible.

Let it rest in the pan for 1–2 minutes, then plate with your favorite sides.

---

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Cooking Tips

• Pound chicken to even thickness: Ensures quick, even cooking.

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Searing in batches prevents steaming and gives you that golden crust.

• Let the butter melt slowly: Low heat helps the garlic butter stay smooth and flavorful.

Variations

• Spicy version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the butter.

• Cheesy skillet: After adding butter, top with shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar and broil for 1–2 minutes until bubbly.

• BBQ twist: Add a drizzle of BBQ sauce before the butter for a smoky-sweet finish.

Substitutions

• Thighs instead of breasts: Juicier and more flavorful, but slightly longer cook time.

• Herb butter: Mix in chives, thyme, or rosemary instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.

• Dairy-free? Use plant-based butter and garlic oil.

---

Serving Ideas & Occasions

Classic Steakhouse Dinner

Pair with:

• Mashed potatoes or baked sweet potatoes

• Sautéed green beans or steamed broccoli

• Texas Roadhouse-style rolls (optional but amazing)

Quick Weeknight Meal

Serve over rice or cauliflower rice for a simple low-carb dinner. Add a crisp salad with ranch or vinaigrette on the side.

Meal Prep

Make extra chicken and store in meal containers with veggies and potatoes. Keeps for up to 4 days in the fridge and reheats beautifully.

Crowd-Pleaser for Casual Entertaining

Slice and serve on a platter with warm butter poured over. Offer as sliders or in wraps for game day.

---

Nutritional & Health Notes

This chicken dish is high in protein, flavorful, and easy to lighten up with a few smart swaps.

Approximate Nutrition Per Serving (1 chicken breast with butter)

• Calories: ~420

• Protein: ~35g

• Fat: ~28g

• Carbs: ~4g

• Sugar: ~2g

Health Tips

• Use light butter or less butter for reduced fat.

• Serve with roasted veggies instead of potatoes for a low-carb meal.

• Choose olive oil spray for searing to cut down on fat without sacrificing texture.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is this the same as Indian butter chicken?

No. This version is a Southern steakhouse-style garlic butter chicken, not the spiced tomato-cream sauce found in traditional Indian butter chicken.

2. Can I use pre-made garlic butter?

Yes! Many grocery stores sell compound butter with garlic and herbs. Still, homemade gives the freshest flavor.

3. What’s the best pan to use?

Cast iron skillets are ideal for great searing and flavor. Nonstick or stainless pans also work well—just avoid overcrowding.

4. Can I bake instead of pan-searing?

Yes. Sear the chicken briefly in a hot pan, then finish baking at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes. Add garlic butter during the last 5 minutes.

5. What kind of BBQ flavor does this have?

The spice rub has a mild smoky-sweet BBQ flavor, especially if you add smoked paprika. It’s not overpowering and pairs beautifully with the buttery sauce.

6. Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes. Let chicken cool completely, freeze with a pat of garlic butter on top, and reheat gently in a pan or oven.

7. Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter alternatives and avoid cheese. Garlic oil can also enhance flavor if butter is removed.

Print