Introduction
If you love the bold, comforting flavors of Texas Roadhouse, this Butter Chicken Skillet is going to be your new favorite weeknight recipe. It combines juicy chicken breasts (or thighs) with the rich, indulgent taste of garlic butter. The result is a restaurant-style dish made in the comfort of your own kitchen. Best of all, it requires simple ingredients you likely already have on hand and comes together in just about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy nights, family dinners, or when you want a hearty meal that feels special without the fuss of dining out.
My recipe story
The inspiration for this skillet came after a visit to Texas Roadhouse, where the rolls and cinnamon butter often steal the spotlight. But what stood out to me was the simplicity of their buttery chicken dishes—juicy, savory, and satisfying without being overly complicated. I wanted to recreate that same experience at home, focusing on bold garlic flavor paired with tender chicken and creamy butter. After a few test runs in my kitchen, I landed on this version, which balances rich flavor with quick preparation. Now, it has become a go-to for family dinners, potluck nights, and even cozy weekend meals when we want something indulgent yet easy.
💡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Inspired by Texas Roadhouse flavors but easy to recreate at home.
- Rich garlic butter makes every bite irresistible.
- Versatile—works with chicken breasts, thighs, or even turkey cutlets.
- One-skillet meal with minimal cleanup.
- Pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or veggies.
Ingredient breakdown
At the heart of this dish are just a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. The star is, of course, the chicken. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option or thighs for a richer, juicier taste. Both work well and absorb the butter and garlic beautifully.
Butter is the second key player, giving the dish its signature richness. Using both salted and unsalted butter works, though many prefer unsalted so you can control the saltiness of the final dish. Garlic brings sharpness and depth, cutting through the richness of the butter for a perfectly balanced bite.
Other pantry staples like salt, black pepper, and optional herbs (like thyme or parsley) round out the flavors. You don’t need anything fancy—this is a recipe that shines in its simplicity, proving that sometimes less is more in the kitchen.
Equipment you’ll need
- Large heavy-bottom skillet or cast-iron pan
- Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board
- Tongs or spatula for flipping chicken
- Measuring spoons
- Small bowl for mixing garlic butter
Step-by-step directions
Step 1: Prepare the chicken. Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry with a paper towel to help them sear evenly. Lightly season with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step enhances flavor and ensures the chicken develops a golden crust when cooked.
Step 2: Heat the skillet. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add two tablespoons of butter and let it melt until foamy. This forms the base of your flavor and helps the chicken brown beautifully while staying juicy inside.
Step 3: Cook the chicken. Arrange the chicken pieces in the skillet without crowding them. Cook for about 5–6 minutes per side (depending on thickness), until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside on a warm plate to rest.
Step 4: Make the garlic butter sauce. Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter to the pan along with the minced garlic. Stir frequently for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. The aroma will fill your kitchen instantly.
Step 5: Combine and serve. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter over each piece. Let it simmer together for another 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Variations & substitutions
This dish is wonderfully adaptable. If you don’t have chicken breasts, swap them for thighs or even boneless turkey cutlets. For a lighter version, try reducing the butter slightly and replacing half with olive oil. Want extra flavor? Add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce. Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage also complement the butter beautifully. For a touch of spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick without overpowering the dish.
💡 Expert Tips & Troubleshooting
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—this ensures the chicken sears instead of steams.
- Use a meat thermometer: chicken is done at 165°F (74°C).
- If garlic starts browning too quickly, lower the heat to avoid bitterness.
- Rest the chicken before slicing so juices redistribute evenly.
Storage, freezing & make-ahead
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. This dish also freezes well—store cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. For make-ahead prep, you can season and refrigerate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, making weeknight cooking even quicker.
Serving ideas & pairings
This skillet is versatile when it comes to pairings. For a classic steakhouse-inspired plate, serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables. It also works wonderfully over rice, quinoa, or pasta for a heartier meal. Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the extra garlic butter sauce. For a lighter option, pair it with a crisp green salad or grilled asparagus. And don’t forget a glass of white wine—something buttery like Chardonnay or crisp like Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish beautifully.
FAQ
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, bone-in chicken works, but it will require longer cooking time. Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
What if I only have salted butter?
You can use salted butter—just reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid over-seasoning.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, replace butter with a vegan butter alternative or olive oil for a dairy-free version.
What sides go best with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables are excellent pairings. You can also serve it with pasta or a fresh salad.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just cook the chicken in batches to avoid crowding the pan and ensure even cooking.
Final thoughts
The Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is proof that simple ingredients can come together to make a truly unforgettable meal. With juicy chicken, golden garlic, and a rich butter sauce, this dish is as comforting as it is impressive. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or simply craving something indulgent after a long day, this skillet delivers. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular part of your weeknight rotation.
Print
Easy and Quick Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
 Juicy chicken breasts simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce, inspired by Texas Roadhouse flavors. A comforting skillet meal ready in 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
- Lower heat to medium, add remaining butter and garlic, and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Return chicken to skillet, spoon garlic butter over the top, and simmer 2–3 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
 Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth. Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American