Butter Chicken Skillet Texas Roadhouse

Big skillet meals bring everyone to the table and this butter chicken skillet in the spirit of Texas Roadhouse is my secret weapon on busy nights. The sizzle of chicken in a hot skillet fills up the house with all the comforting aromas you could want and the butter sauce at the end transforms humble ingredients into something everyone wants second helpings of.

The first time I made this skillet style my husband immediately claimed the leftovers for his lunch. It has steadily become the dinner I make when I want big flavor and almost no fuss.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Brings tenderness—chicken thighs stay juicier and are forgiving if slightly overcooked
• Olive oil: Helps the spices cling and gives the skillet a beautiful golden crust—choose a fresh tasting oil
• Unsalted butter: Divided so you control the richness at every step—use quality butter for impressive flavor
• Garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with depth and warmth—seek out a good brand for the strongest taste
• Onion powder: Adds gentle sweetness and savoriness
• Paprika: Brings smokiness and color—a sweeter variety works well here
• Salt: Enhances every bite—use flaky sea salt if possible
• Black pepper: Provides mild heat—always go for fresh cracked for best aroma
• Chicken broth: For deglazing and making the pan sauce
• Lemon juice (optional): For brightness
• Fresh parsley: For color and pop

How to Make It

Sauté the Chicken:

Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels then coat all sides with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This will help the spices cling and create a flavorful crust.

Sear the Chicken:

Add olive oil and half of the butter to a large heavy skillet over medium high heat. Once the butter melts and foams, lay the chicken pieces in and cook without moving them for five to six minutes per side. The goal is deep golden edges and a fully cooked center. Check for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Deglaze and Build Sauce:

Remove the chicken to a plate and reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter to the pan followed by a generous splash of chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up every brown bit on the bottom as these caramelized spices make the sauce rich. Let it bubble for two to three minutes and squeeze in a bit of lemon juice for brightness if you like.

Finish in Butter Sauce:

Return the chicken and any juices to the skillet. Continually spoon the sauce over each piece so the flavors soak in. Let everything cook together for another two minutes to bring all the flavors together.

Freshen and Serve:

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over everything for color and pop then serve the skillet hot straight to the table.

My favorite part is deglazing the pan after searing because all those browned spices instantly turn into liquid gold. The skillet comes bubbling to the table and everyone scoops up the extra sauce.

Flavor Boosters

Let chicken rest a few minutes before slicing for juicier results. Use a heavy skillet like cast iron to get the best golden crust. Always taste the sauce and add a touch more lemon or salt if it needs it.

Serving Suggestions

The pan sauce begs to be paired with mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or warm dinner rolls to mop up every bit. A side of crisp salad balances out the richness. If you want to keep it classic serve with roasted green beans or corn.

Creative Twists

You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for even more juiciness. Butter can be swapped for ghee for a richer taste. To add spice, use smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne. Try pairing with seasonal sides like fresh corn or roasted sweet potatoes depending on the time of year.

Let these cozy skillet aromas fill your home—this meal brings loved ones together, every time. Leftovers rarely last the night, but if they do, lucky you!

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What type of chicken works best for this skillet?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal, as they cook evenly and remain tender in the buttery sauce.

→ How do I achieve a golden sear on the chicken?

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning, then sear in a hot skillet with olive oil and butter without overcrowding the pan.

→ Can I add vegetables to this skillet?

Yes! Sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms can be added after searing the chicken for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ Is this dish spicy?

The dish is mildly spiced from paprika and black pepper, but you can add a bit of cayenne if a kick is desired.

→ What sides pair well with this skillet?

Mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or crusty bread make perfect accompaniments to soak up the flavorful sauce.