How long does Texas Roadhouse butter chicken skillet take to cook?

Total cooking time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes, including 5 minutes prep time and 15 minutes active cooking. The chicken requires 10-12 minutes of searing time, followed by 3-4 minutes for sauce development. Always verify doneness with a meat thermometer rather than relying solely on timing.

Can I make butter chicken skillet ahead of time for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish meal preps beautifully. Cook completely, cool rapidly, and refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to refresh the sauce and heat gently to prevent overcooking. The flavors actually improve after a day as they meld together.

What's the best substitute for butter in this chicken skillet recipe?

For dairy-free options, use solid coconut oil or high-quality vegan butter in equal amounts. Ghee works excellently for those who can tolerate clarified dairy products. Each alternative provides slightly different flavor notes but maintains the rich, satisfying character essential to this recipe.

How do I know when the chicken in my butter skillet is fully cooked?

Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast – it should read 165°F. Visually, properly cooked chicken will be golden brown on the outside with clear (not pink) juices running when pierced. The meat should feel firm but not hard when pressed gently.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this Texas Roadhouse butter chicken recipe?

Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully and are more forgiving due to higher fat content. Increase cooking time to 7-8 minutes per side and ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F. Thighs provide richer flavor and stay more moist, making them an excellent choice for this preparation.

What sides go best with Texas Roadhouse style butter chicken skillet?

Roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, garlic mashed potatoes, and fresh green salads complement this dish perfectly. For lighter options, try cauliflower rice, steamed broccoli, or sautéed spinach. The key is choosing sides that won't compete with the rich honey butter sauce while providing textural contrast.

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe (Easy Copycat)

Name: Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe (Easy Copycat)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp olive oil; ¼ cup unsalted butter; 2 tsp honey; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ¼ cup chicken broth; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Description

This Texas Roadhouse-Style Butter Chicken Skillet recreates the restaurant favorite at home with tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich honey-butter sauce. The combination of smoked paprika, garlic, and a touch of sweetness creates an irresistible glaze that perfectly complements the golden-seared chicken. Ready in just 20 minutes, this one-pan dinner is perfect for busy weeknights when you want restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
¼ cup unsalted butter
2 tsp honey
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
¼ cup chicken broth
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Butter Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine butter, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Deglaze and Create Sauce: In the same skillet, add chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the prepared butter mixture and cook until smooth and melted.
Combine and Simmer: Return chicken to the skillet and coat thoroughly with the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety. Sauce Variations: For a creamier sauce, add 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream or coconut milk. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat. Serving Suggestions: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Also pairs well with roasted vegetables or a simple side salad. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the chicken. Pro Tip: Don’t skip deglazing the pan – those browned bits add incredible flavor to the sauce.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (1 chicken breast with sauce)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 110mg