Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet transforms simple ingredients into a one-pan wonder your whole household will love. Juicy chicken gets an irresistible bath in a buttery honey garlic sauce touched with smoked paprika. Every forkful is pure comfort packed with big flavor and all it takes is one skillet from stovetop to table in under half an hour.

The first time I made this skillet for a busy weeknight I was amazed by how quickly it came together and soon it became my go-to when I wanted something homey without a lot of mess.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Chicken breasts soak up the sweet smoky sauce and stay juicy if not overcooked Choose firm fillets without any bruising or strong smell
• Olive oil: The base fat for browning adds subtle flavor and keeps the chicken from sticking Use extra virgin for the best taste
• Unsalted butter: Delivers the buttery richness that defines this dish Always use unsalted so you control the saltiness
• Honey: A touch of natural sweetness balances the smoky notes Choose real honey for the full depth of flavor
• Garlic powder: Gives the sauce savory warmth If possible select fine granules for even blending
• Smoked paprika: Lends a barbecue flavor and gorgeous color Opt for authentic Spanish smoked paprika for a real treat
• Salt: Brings everything together Choose fine sea salt for clean seasoning
• Black pepper: Adds subtle heat and a savory edge to the sauce Use freshly cracked for more punch
• Chicken broth: Deglazes the skillet for extra richness and helps create the silky sauce Use low sodium so the final dish does not get too salty
• Chopped parsley: Provides a fresh green finish Choose flat leaf parsley for the brightest flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Butter Sauce:

In a small bowl mix the butter honey garlic powder smoked paprika salt and black pepper until you have a smooth paste This buttery mix is the key to rich flavor so blend until totally uniform

Brown the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in your chosen skillet over medium heat Lay in your chicken breasts and cook for five to six minutes per side Do not rush this step Let the exterior turn a beautiful golden brown which seals in the juices and builds savory fond on the pan bottom Check for doneness by slicing into a breast or using a meat thermometer to reach one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit

Deglaze and Make the Sauce:

When the chicken is cooked remove it temporarily to a plate Pour chicken broth into the same pan scraping up the browned bits left behind gently Stir in the butter mixture and cook for a minute or two until it forms a glossy fragrant sauce The spices should smell toasty but not burnt

Return Chicken and Simmer:

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet spooning sauce over each piece Reduce the heat and let everything simmer for two to three more minutes This step lets the chicken absorb the sauce and flavor melds throughout

Garnish and Serve:

Switch off the heat Sprinkle on chopped parsley Serve hot right from the skillet making sure every serving gets plenty of buttery sauce

Save

I have always had a soft spot for smoked paprika Even a little bit brings that gently woodsy taste which takes an everyday dinner and turns it into something that feels special My family always jokes that they can tell instantly if paprika is in the house because the kitchen smells amazing

Storage Tips

This dish keeps well for up to three days in the fridge Store chicken and sauce together in a lidded container Microwave gently to reheat or warm on low in a skillet adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce if needed Leftovers are great tucked into wraps for lunch the next day

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap boneless thighs for breasts for extra juicy results Use ghee or a quality plant spread if you want a dairy free version Real maple syrup works well if you are out of honey Add your favorite fresh herbs to customize the finish

Serving Suggestions

This skillet shines with rice mashed potatoes or even over soft polenta For a lighter side dish heap on steamed veggies or serve with a sharp green salad Some like it spooned over cauliflower rice for a low carb meal that still satisfies

Cultural Notes

Though inspired by the classic butter chicken this version skips tomatoes and cream for a more American steakhouse style flavor The smoked paprika is what hints subtly at BBQ while honey and butter cozy everything up together

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes the sauce rich and flavorful?

The sauce combines unsalted butter, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and chicken broth to create a balance of creamy, sweet, and savory flavors.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great substitute. They may require a little more cooking time for tenderness.

→ What are some serving suggestions?

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

→ How can I add more heat?

For a spicier flavor, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or spicy chili flakes to the buttery sauce.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store any remaining chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days for best quality.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all core ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those avoiding wheat.