Name: Best Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil; 1 tsp salt (for chicken); ½ tsp black pepper (for chicken); ½ tsp smoked paprika (for chicken); ¼ tsp garlic powder; ¼ cup unsalted butter (for sauce); 1 large yellow onion, finely diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (14.5 oz) can petite diced tomatoes, undrained; 6 oz tomato paste; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup full-fat sour cream; 2 tbsp light brown sugar, packed; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp smoked paprika (for sauce); ½ tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp chili powder; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1 cup frozen corn kernels; 1 large bell pepper (red or green), diced; Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley, for garnish; Red pepper flakes, optional garnish

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is an absolute culinary revelation that I am incredibly excited to share with you.

Imagine the comforting, robust flavors of your favorite American steakhouse, beautifully intertwined with the rich, creamy, and subtly spiced notes of classic Indian butter chicken.

This unique fusion might sound unconventional, but I promise, it’s a harmonious blend that will genuinely surprise and delight your taste buds. While traditional butter chicken boasts a storied heritage from the heart of India, and Texas Roadhouse is synonymous with hearty American indulgence, I’ve meticulously crafted this recipe to bridge these two beloved culinary traditions in a truly remarkable way. My goal was to create a skillet meal that offers the warmth and familiarity of home-cooked comfort with an exciting, exotic twist that is both accessible and deeply satisfying. People adore this dish for its incredibly tender chicken, bathed in a luscious, deeply flavorful sauce that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and a touch of smoky spice, all made conveniently in one pan. The simplicity of preparation combined with its complex, satisfying taste makes the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet a guaranteed new family favorite. Get ready to experience comfort food like never before!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces (chicken breasts can also be used, but thighs stay juicier!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil, plus more if needed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Texas Roadhouse Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (that’s half a stick, folks, we’re making butter chicken after all!)
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 ounces tomato paste (a small can, typically)
- 1 cup chicken broth, low sodium
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sour cream (full-fat for best results)
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference!)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Skillet Vegetables:
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 large bell pepper (red or green), diced into ½-inch pieces
For Garnish:
- Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for an extra kick

Prep Work: Getting Everything Ready for Your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

Alright, let’s get our kitchen organized! As any good chef will tell you, a successful dish starts with a well-prepared workstation, or as the pros call it, “mise en place.” Trust me, taking a few extra minutes now will make the cooking process smooth sailing and so much more enjoyable. This is where we lay the foundation for our incredible Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.

First up, let’s tackle that chicken. Grab your boneless, skinless chicken thighs. I personally love using thighs for this recipe because they tend to stay incredibly juicy and flavorful, even after simmering in the sauce. However, if chicken breasts are more your style, go right ahead – just keep an eye on them during cooking so they don’t dry out. Cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces. Consistency is key here; it ensures everything cooks evenly, so you don’t end up with some pieces overcooked while others are still a bit raw. Once cut, pat the chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step is super important! Excess moisture prevents the chicken from getting that beautiful, golden-brown sear, which means less flavor developed in the pan. After patting dry, transfer the chicken to a medium bowl and season it generously with 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, and ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder. Toss it all together with your hands to make sure every piece is coated. Set this aside to let the flavors meld a bit while you prep the rest.

Next, let’s move on to our aromatics and vegetables. Peel and finely dice your large yellow onion. We want it fine enough so it practically melts into our sauce, contributing sweetness and depth without being chunky. Then, grab those four cloves of garlic. Give them a good smash and mince them finely. Fresh garlic truly makes a difference here, so don’t be tempted by the jarred stuff if you can help it! For the bell pepper, wash it, core it, and dice it into ½-inch pieces. I love using red bell pepper for its sweetness and vibrant color, but green works just as well if you prefer a slightly more savory note. Finally, measure out all your spices for the sauce: the extra smoked paprika, dried oregano, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Get your canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, heavy cream, sour cream, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce ready to go. Having everything within arm’s reach will prevent any last-minute scrambling and ensure you add ingredients at just the right time.

Seriously, taking the time for this “mise en place” will make you feel like a culinary wizard, and it sets the stage for a truly effortless and delicious cooking experience. You’ll be thanking yourself when you’re sipping on a beverage while your skillet simmers away!

Cooking the Chicken to Perfection for Your Skillet

Now that all our ingredients are prepped and ready, it’s time to get cooking! This step is crucial for building a flavorful base for our Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet. We’re going to sear the chicken, which not only cooks it but also creates delicious browned bits, or “fond,” at the bottom of the pan – pure gold for our sauce.

Heat the Skillet: Grab a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or a Dutch oven. I highly recommend using a cast-iron skillet if you have one, as it distributes heat beautifully and gives an amazing sear. Place it over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or avocado oil to the hot pan. You want the oil to be shimmering but not smoking, indicating it’s hot enough to get a good sear.
Sear the Chicken: Carefully add about half of your seasoned chicken pieces to the hot skillet in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan! This is a common mistake that leads to steamed chicken instead of seared chicken. If the pan is too full, the temperature drops, and the chicken releases moisture instead of browning. We want that beautiful, caramelized crust. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until it has a deep golden-brown crust on one side. Then, flip the pieces and cook for another 2-3 minutes until browned on the other side and mostly cooked through. The chicken doesn’t need to be completely cooked at this stage, as it will finish simmering in the sauce.
Remove and Repeat: Once the first batch of chicken is nicely seared, transfer it to a clean plate and set aside. Add a tiny bit more oil to the skillet if needed, then repeat the searing process with the remaining chicken pieces. This ensures every piece gets that wonderful color and flavor. Once the second batch is seared, add it to the plate with the first batch. Take a moment to admire those golden-brown pieces – that’s flavor development happening right there!

By searing the chicken in batches, we’re not only cooking it evenly but also creating those coveted browned bits (fond) on the bottom of the skillet. These bits are packed with concentrated flavor, and we’ll scrape them up in the next step to enrich our sauce. Trust me, this attention to detail in the searing process will pay off immensely in the final taste of your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.

Crafting the Velvety Texas Roadhouse Butter Sauce

This is where the magic truly happens and our dish transforms into that comforting, crave-worthy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet. We’re going to build layers of flavor, creating a rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced sauce that coats every piece of chicken and vegetable beautifully. Get ready for your kitchen to smell absolutely divine!

Sauté the Onions: Reduce the heat to medium. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the same skillet where you seared the chicken. Let it melt, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan as it does. This deglazing action will infuse the butter with all that chicken flavor! Once the butter is melted and sizzling gently, add your finely diced yellow onion. Sauté the onion for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft, translucent, and slightly golden. We want to gently coax out its natural sweetness.
Add Garlic and Spices: Now, push the onions to one side of the pan and add your minced garlic to the cleared space. Cook for about 30-60 seconds, stirring until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it – burnt garlic can turn bitter. Immediately after the garlic becomes aromatic, add all your dried spices for the sauce: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon chili powder, and ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper. Stir the spices into the onions and garlic, cooking for another minute. This step, known as “blooming” the spices, truly awakens their flavors and aromas by lightly toasting them in the hot fat. It’s a game-changer for depth of flavor!
Introduce Tomato Paste and Deglaze: Stir in the 6 ounces of tomato paste. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes. You’ll notice the tomato paste deepening in color, often turning a brick-red or rust hue. This process, called “cooking out” the tomato paste, removes its raw, metallic edge and concentrates its sweet, savory flavor, adding incredible richness to our sauce. Next, pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to vigorously scrape up all those wonderful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This is where all the hidden flavor from searing the chicken and blooming the spices resides, and by deglazing, we’re incorporating it directly into our sauce. Let the broth simmer for a minute or two, allowing it to reduce slightly and thicken.
Stir in the Remaining Liquids and Sweetener: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the 1 (14.5-ounce) can of petite diced tomatoes (undrained, as the liquid adds flavor and moisture). Then, pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of full-fat sour cream. The sour cream adds a lovely tang and extra richness that beautifully balances the sweetness. Add the 2 tablespoons of packed light brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together until well combined and the sauce is smooth and creamy. The brown sugar provides that subtle sweetness that you often find in comfort food, while the Worcestershire adds a savory, umami depth.
Simmer and Season: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for at least 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering time allows all the flavors to meld and deepen beautifully. The sauce should thicken to a luscious, velvety consistency. As it simmers, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning. Add more salt, black pepper, or even a pinch more cayenne if you like a little extra heat. Remember, the sauce is the star, so make sure it tastes absolutely perfect to you!

This careful layering of ingredients and patient simmering is what gives our Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet its signature, irresistible flavor. You’ll be amazed at the depth and creaminess you achieve!

Bringing It All Together: The Skillet Assembly and Final Simmer

We’re in the home stretch, and the aromas wafting from your kitchen must be absolutely incredible right now! This phase brings everything together into one harmonious and utterly delicious Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet. Get ready for some serious comfort food!

Reintroduce the Chicken: Carefully add all the seared chicken pieces, along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate, back into the simmering butter sauce in the skillet. Gently stir to ensure every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in that rich, velvety sauce. It’s a beautiful sight, isn’t it? The chicken will finish cooking and absorb all those wonderful flavors.
Incorporate the Skillet Vegetables: Now, add your diced bell pepper and frozen corn kernels to the skillet. Stir them into the sauce with the chicken. The bell peppers will add a lovely crunch and fresh sweetness, while the corn provides little bursts of juicy texture. If you were feeling adventurous and included any other robust vegetables like small potato cubes (pre-cooked partially) or sliced zucchini, this would be the time to add them as well. For this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet, I find the combination of bell pepper and corn to be just perfect, keeping it simple yet satisfying.
Final Simmer for Flavor Infusion: Once everything is combined, bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer over low heat. Cover the skillet loosely or leave it uncovered if you want the sauce to thicken a bit more. Let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes. This final simmer is crucial for several reasons:
- It allows the chicken to finish cooking through completely, becoming incredibly tender and infused with the sauce’s flavor.
- The vegetables will soften just enough, while still retaining a slight bite, adding textural contrast.
- Most importantly, all the flavors from the chicken, sauce, and vegetables will marry and deepen, creating a truly cohesive and spectacular dish.
During this time, give it an occasional stir to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pan and to ensure even cooking. If the sauce seems too thick for your liking, you can always thin it out with a splash of extra chicken broth or heavy cream. Conversely, if it’s a bit thinner than you’d prefer, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, and it will naturally reduce and thicken. You want a sauce that generously clings to the chicken and vegetables.
Final Taste Test and Adjustments: Before serving, always give your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet one last taste. This is your chance to make any final adjustments. Does it need a little more salt? A dash more pepper? Perhaps another pinch of cayenne if you’re a fan of heat? Don’t be shy – make it perfect for your palate!

And there you have it! Your kitchen is now filled with the intoxicating aroma of a homemade masterpiece. The chicken is tender, the vegetables are perfectly cooked, and the sauce is a creamy, savory dream. You’ve successfully brought together all the components into one glorious Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet, ready to be devoured.

Serving Your Delicious Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

Congratulations, chef! Your magnificent Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is now ready to impress. The moment has arrived to present your creation and enjoy the fruits of your labor. The wonderful thing about a skillet meal is its inherent rustic charm and how it makes for such an inviting presentation straight from the pan to the table.

Once you’ve done your final taste test and are completely satisfied with the seasoning, remove the skillet from the heat. This allows the sauce to settle a little and ensures that it won’t be too bubbling hot when you serve it. Then, for that perfect finishing touch, liberally sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro or parsley over the entire skillet. Not only does this add a pop of vibrant color, making the dish visually appealing, but the fresh herbs also bring a brightness and aromatic lift that beautifully complements the rich, savory sauce. If you’re like me and enjoy a little extra warmth, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes right before serving can add a lovely kick without overwhelming the other flavors.

Now, for the best part: serving! This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic, comforting meal, I love serving it over a bed of fluffy white rice, which soaks up all that glorious butter sauce. Alternatively, egg noodles or even mashed potatoes would be fantastic companions, providing another creamy element that perfectly complements the chicken. If you prefer something lighter, a simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skillet. And, of course, you absolutely cannot go wrong with some warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping into that incredible sauce – trust me, you won’t want to leave a single drop behind!

Gather your loved ones around, dish out generous portions of this hearty and flavorful meal, and prepare for compliments. This homemade Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s an experience of warmth, comfort, and incredible flavor that truly brings everyone to the table. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it – my absolute favorite recipe for a dish that consistently brings smiles to everyone’s faces. This isn’t just another dinner; it’s an experience, a symphony of flavors that truly elevates a simple weeknight meal into something special. I’m talking about that incredibly tender, succulent chicken bathed in a rich, velvety sauce that dances on your palate with just the right amount of tang, a whisper of sweetness, and a comforting warmth from perfectly balanced spices. It’s the kind of dish that makes your kitchen smell like a five-star restaurant, filling your home with an irresistible aroma that promises a truly unforgettable meal. This recipe, my friends, delivers on that promise every single time.

What makes this particular rendition of the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet a non-negotiable addition to your culinary repertoire isn’t just its incredible flavor profile, which, trust me, is out of this world. It’s also its surprising simplicity. Despite its gourmet taste, you’ll find the steps straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Imagine crafting a dish so profoundly satisfying, so wonderfully comforting, that it feels like a warm hug on a plate, all without spending hours slaving over a hot stove. That’s the magic we’re talking about here. It’s robust enough to satisfy the heartiest appetites yet refined enough to impress even the most discerning palates. The chicken, seared to perfection and then simmered until it’s fall-apart tender, truly absorbs all those delightful spices, making every bite an absolute delight. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures, a testament to how simple ingredients can transform into something truly extraordinary with just a little love and the right technique.

Now, let’s talk about how to make this masterpiece even more incredible, or rather, how to complete the experience. For serving, my go-to is always a generous bed of fluffy basmati rice, which does an admirable job of soaking up every last drop of that glorious sauce. But don’t stop there! Warm, pillowy naan bread, perfect for scooping, is another absolute essential – trust me, you’ll want to mop up every bit of that deliciousness. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, which create an unbelievably luxurious pairing, or even some garlic-infused couscous for a lighter, quicker option. A simple side salad with a bright, tangy dressing can also provide a wonderful fresh counterpoint to the richness of the skillet. And for those who love their greens, some steamed broccoli or green beans tossed with a squeeze of lemon juice would be an excellent, healthy addition.

Unlock New Flavors: Creative Variations for Your Skillet

But the beauty of this recipe doesn’t end with its perfect execution; it extends to its incredible versatility. Feel free to make it your own! If you’re looking to add more vegetables, stir in some fresh spinach right at the end until it wilts, or incorporate some colorful bell peppers or sweet peas during the simmering stage for extra texture and nutrients. For those who prefer a dairy-free option, coconut milk can be an excellent substitute for heavy cream, lending a delightful tropical note without compromising on creaminess. You could also experiment with different proteins; while chicken is king here, thinly sliced pork tenderloin or even hearty chickpeas for a vegetarian version could work beautifully, just adjust cooking times accordingly. To amp up the heat, a pinch more cayenne pepper or a finely minced jalapeño will give it a fiery kick. Conversely, if you prefer a milder profile, simply reduce the amount of chili powder. A swirl of plain yogurt or sour cream as a garnish can add another layer of tangy freshness, and a sprinkling of fresh cilantro or green onions at the very end brightens everything up visually and taste-wise. Don’t be afraid to play around with the spices too; a touch of garam masala at the end can deepen the aroma, or a hint of smoked paprika can add a beautiful complexity.

So, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to carve out some time this week, gather your ingredients, and embark on this truly rewarding culinary journey. This recipe is designed to bring joy and incredible flavor into your home, transforming an ordinary meal into an extraordinary event. I promise you, the aroma alone will be enough to get everyone excited for dinner. Imagine the smiles around your table, the satisfied sighs, and the compliments you’ll receive. Once you’ve experienced the pure delight of this dish, I would absolutely love to hear about it! Please, share your triumphs, your serving ideas, or even your creative variations. Tag me, leave a comment, or simply tell your friends and family about your amazing creation. Your feedback and stories truly inspire me and help this wonderful culinary community grow. Go on, give this recipe a try; it’s more than just food, it’s an invitation to create delicious memories. Happy cooking, everyone!