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Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe

4.5 from 241 reviews

A rich and flavorful Texas Roadhouse-inspired Butter Chicken Skillet featuring tender, seared chicken breasts simmered in a creamy garlic Parmesan butter sauce seasoned with smoked paprika and herbs. Perfect for an indulgent skillet meal that combines bold steakhouse flavors with comforting, creamy textures.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Butter Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Generously season both sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a savory steakhouse flavor.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and nearly cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon butter and the chopped onion. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Make the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth while scraping up browned bits from the skillet bottom. Let it reduce slightly, then stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Whisk in the last tablespoon of butter for a richer flavor. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional cayenne.
  5. Simmer Chicken in Sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestle it into the sauce, and spoon sauce over the top. Lower heat to low and simmer gently for 8–10 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the skillet for color and freshness. Serve hot with Texas Roadhouse-style warm rolls, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Notes

  • Using chicken thighs instead of breasts adds extra juiciness and flavor.
  • Oven-safe skillet like a cast iron is best for even heat distribution and finishing the dish.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level or omit for no heat.
  • Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
  • Leftovers can be reheated gently on the stovetop to prevent sauce separation.

Keywords: Texas Roadhouse butter chicken, creamy butter chicken skillet, skillet chicken recipe, garlic Parmesan chicken, smoked paprika chicken