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Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet – Sweet, Savory, and Sizzling with Flavor

Craving that juicy, sweet-and-savory Texas Roadhouse-style chicken at home? Look no further than this sizzling Butter Chicken Skillet, a recipe that balances the bold flavor of smoky paprika, rich butter, a touch of honey, and juicy chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection. Inspired by the beloved Texas Roadhouse grilled butter chicken, this stovetop version is quick, easy, and totally packed with flavor. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, backyard BBQ vibes indoors, or when you want comfort food without firing up the grill. And best of all? It’s ready in under 30 minutes — skillet only, no oven needed.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🍗 Meat
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5–2 lbs)
🧄 Fruits & Vegetables
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
  • 🧂 Spices
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
🍯 Condiments
  • 2 tsp honey for sweetness and caramelization
🧈 Dairy
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
🫒 Oils & Vinegars
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
🥣 Pan Sauce
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth to deglaze and keep it juicy

Equipment

  • This recipe is simple and equipment-light. Here’s what you need:
  • Heavy skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Small bowl
  • Knife and cutting board
  • 🔥 Pro Tip: A well-seasoned cast iron skillet is perfect for that restaurant-style sear and flavor!

Method
 

Step 1: Season the Chicken
  1. Pat chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together:
  3. Garlic powder
  4. Paprika
  5. Salt
  6. Black pepper
  7. Rub the spice blend evenly over both sides of the chicken.
💡 Drying and seasoning well helps get that signature golden sear.
    Step 2: Sear the Chicken
    1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    2. When hot, add chicken breasts and sear for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown.
    3. Remove from skillet and set aside (they’ll finish cooking shortly).
    🔥 Don’t overcrowd the pan — work in batches if needed.
      Step 3: Make the Butter Sauce
      1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
      2. Add butter and stir to melt.
      3. Stir in honey and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release flavorful bits.
      4. Simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
      Step 4: Finish the Chicken
      1. Return chicken breasts to the skillet.
      2. Spoon sauce over the chicken and cook on low heat for 3–4 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
      3. Spoon more sauce over top as it cooks and finishes.
      Step 5: Garnish & Serve
      1. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.
      2. Serve hot with sauce drizzled on top.
      🍽️ Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a full meal.

        Notes

        🧊 Storage & Reheating
        Refrigerator
        Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
        Freezer
        Freeze cooked and cooled chicken for up to 2 months.
        Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
        🔁 Sauce may thicken when chilled — reheat slowly to preserve texture.
        🥄 Variations
        Try these flavorful spins on the classic butter chicken skillet:
        🧀 Cheesy Butter Chicken – Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar in the final 2 minutes and cover to melt.
        🍋 Lemon-Honey Twist – Add 1 tbsp lemon juice to the butter sauce for brightness.
        🌶️ Spicy Kick – Stir in 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper or cayenne with the spices.
        🧄 Garlic Butter Bomb – Add minced garlic to the skillet before the butter for extra flavor.
        🥬 One-Pan Meal – Add broccoli or green beans in the last 5 minutes to cook in the same pan.
        🍠 Serve Over Sweet Potatoes – Adds a Southern comfort twist!
        ❓ 10 FAQs
        1. What is Texas Roadhouse butter chicken?
        It’s a grilled chicken breast brushed with garlic butter, often served with sides like mashed potatoes or veggies.
        2. Can I grill the chicken instead?
        Absolutely — just follow the seasoning instructions and grill instead of pan-searing. Brush with butter sauce while grilling.
        3. Can I use chicken thighs?
        Yes — boneless, skinless thighs work perfectly and are even juicier.
        4. Is this dish spicy?
        Not at all. It’s flavorful but mild. Add crushed red pepper if you like heat.
        5. Can I make it dairy-free?
        Substitute with plant-based butter and skip the cheese (if adding).
        6. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
        Technically yes, but real butter gives the best flavor and authentic feel.
        7. What sides go well with this dish?
        Mashed potatoes, rice, garlic bread, green beans, salad, or sweet corn.
        8. How do I keep the chicken juicy?
        Avoid overcooking. Use a thermometer and pull at 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
        9. Can I double the sauce?
        Absolutely — especially if you’re serving with rice or pasta.
        10. Can I add cream to make it richer?
        Yes — a splash of cream added to the butter sauce creates a silky, indulgent finish.
        🏁 Conclusion
        This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet delivers everything you love about the steakhouse version — the bold seasonings, golden sear, and that signature buttery glaze — in a quick, one-skillet meal you can whip up any night of the week.
        It’s versatile, comforting, and guaranteed to be a repeat favorite at your table. Whether served with creamy mashed potatoes or on a bed of seasoned rice, it’s always a hit.