This Texas Roadhouse–inspired butter chicken skillet is the definition of comfort food. Juicy golden chicken breasts get bathed in a silky garlic-butter sauce with a touch of honey for sweetness. It’s rich, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a cozy dinner that tastes like it came straight from the restaurant kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Dinner on the table in 30 minutes flat.
- Restaurant-Inspired: Brings that Texas Roadhouse buttery magic to your own kitchen.
- Family Favorite: A hearty, crowd-pleasing dish everyone will love.
- Customizable: Add cheese, caramelized onions, or your favorite toppings for extra richness.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this buttery skillet chicken:
- Chicken Breasts: Juicy, protein-packed, and the star of the dish.
- Olive Oil: Helps the chicken get beautifully golden in the pan.
- Butter: The heart of that silky, indulgent sauce.
- Garlic: Adds depth and irresistible aroma.
- Chicken Broth: Balances richness and creates the base of the sauce.
- Honey: A touch of sweetness that rounds out the savory flavors.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds warmth and a subtle smoky kick.
- Parsley: A fresh, herby finish.
- Salt & Black Pepper: To season and enhance all the flavors.
- Optional Cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack): For a melty, gooey upgrade.
- Optional Caramelized Onions: Sweet and savory richness that takes it over the top.
Note: Full ingredient list with measurements is included in the recipe card below.
How to Make the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Pat chicken dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Step 2: Sear Until Golden
Heat olive oil and part of the butter in a large skillet. Add the chicken and cook until golden on each side and fully cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and honey, scraping up any golden bits from the pan.
Step 4: Simmer with Chicken
Return chicken to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the top and let everything simmer together until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Optional Add-Ins
For an extra indulgent twist, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover until melted, and/or add caramelized onions.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Finish with parsley. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or thick Texas toast.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Pound Chicken Evenly: Ensures quick, even cooking.
- Don’t Burn the Garlic: Keep heat moderate so it stays sweet and fragrant, not bitter.
- Deglaze Like a Pro: Scrape those browned bits—they’re pure flavor!
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Monterey Jack melts creamier, cheddar brings sharper flavor—pick your vibe.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
How to Serve
- Classic Pairing: Over buttery mashed potatoes with a green veggie side.
- Texan Style: With Texas toast or cornbread to soak up all that sauce.
- Low-Carb Option: Pair with cauliflower mash or roasted zucchini.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freeze cooked chicken with sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm gently on the stovetop or in the oven at 350°F. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs are juicier and add extra richness. Just adjust cooking time since they’re thicker.
Do I have to add honey?
Nope. Honey balances the flavors, but you can leave it out or swap with maple syrup.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative, and skip the cheese.
What can I serve this with?
This skillet is amazing with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or even inside a warm sandwich roll.

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp of butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 5–6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Add the remaining butter and garlic to the skillet. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in chicken broth and honey. Stir and deglaze the pan.
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, spooning sauce over chicken.
- Optionally, top with shredded cheese and caramelized onions. Cover until cheese melts.
- Garnish with dried parsley and serve hot.