I’ve always loved comfort food that brings bold flavors without requiring hours in the kitchen. That’s exactly what drew me to this Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet recipe. It’s rich, savory, and bursting with creamy, spiced goodness that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen. But here’s the best part—it comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze and the process even more enjoyable.
Butter chicken is traditionally known for its velvety tomato-based sauce infused with butter, garlic, and warming spices. While the original version might seem complicated or time-consuming, this simplified Texas Roadhouse-style twist keeps all the flavor while streamlining the steps. I like that I can use pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients to whip up a dish that’s hearty enough for dinner guests, yet easy enough for a weeknight meal.
What makes this recipe so special is the perfect balance of spice and creaminess. The chicken turns out incredibly tender, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the sauce while staying juicy inside. I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience, but you can also go for thighs if you prefer extra richness. Either way, the result is a dish that delivers on both taste and texture.
This butter chicken skillet is fantastic on its own or paired with warm naan or steamed rice. The sauce is so flavorful you’ll want to scoop up every last drop. It’s also a great choice for meal prep—reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself, this is one of those recipes that always earns a spot in my regular rotation.
If you’re looking for something cozy, easy, and packed with flavor, this butter chicken skillet will not disappoint.
Ingredients for Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
To recreate this delicious, restaurant-style dish at home, you’ll need a few flavorful ingredients. These combine to deliver a rich, creamy sauce and tender, spiced chicken.
-
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Cut into bite-sized chunks for quick, even cooking. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.
-
Butter – Unsalted butter is ideal, giving the dish its signature silky texture and rich taste.
-
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic enhances the depth of the sauce.
-
Onion – A finely chopped yellow onion adds sweetness and body to the sauce.
-
Tomato Paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor and gives the sauce a deep, vibrant color.
-
Heavy Cream – Essential for the smooth, velvety consistency that defines butter chicken.
-
Greek Yogurt – Helps tenderize the chicken and adds a creamy tang to the sauce.
-
Paprika – Adds warmth and color without overpowering the other flavors.
-
Ground Cumin – Brings a slightly nutty, earthy element.
-
Garam Masala – A fragrant spice blend that provides the signature Indian flavor base.
-
Chili Powder – Adds mild heat. Adjust the quantity based on your preference.
-
Salt and Pepper – For basic seasoning, added to taste.
-
Fresh Cilantro (optional) – A garnish that brings freshness and bright contrast to the rich dish.
How to Make Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Step 1:
Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and a little chili powder. Let them sit for about 10 minutes while you prepare the skillet.
Step 2:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the seasoned chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3:
In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Step 4:
Add the tomato paste to the onion-garlic mixture. Stir it well to coat the onions and let it cook for 2 minutes. This helps to deepen the tomato flavor and remove any raw taste.
Step 5:
Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to blend it into the tomato base. Then, add the Greek yogurt, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 6:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss it well in the sauce to ensure every piece is evenly coated. Simmer the mixture gently for 8–10 minutes on low heat. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender, and the sauce will thicken slightly.
Step 7:
Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices as needed. Add a final tablespoon of butter and stir it through just before removing from heat.
Step 8:
Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice or warm naan for a comforting, satisfying meal.
This skillet recipe is all about layering flavors and cooking in stages to build a bold, rich butter chicken that’s easy enough for beginners but satisfying enough for experienced cooks.
How Long to Cook the Chicken
The cooking time for the chicken in this recipe depends on the size of the pieces and the heat of your stove. For perfectly cooked chicken, here are the guidelines:
-
Small Chicken Pieces (bite-sized chunks) – These will cook through in about 5-6 minutes when sautéed over medium heat. You want them to be browned on all sides, but still juicy inside.
-
Larger Pieces or Thicker Cuts – If using larger chicken pieces, such as whole breasts or thighs, you’ll need to increase the cooking time to about 8-10 minutes per side to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.
When the chicken is done, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the juices should run clear, not pink.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftover butter chicken, don’t worry—it stores beautifully and can be enjoyed again later. Here’s how to store it properly:
-
Refrigerator – Let the butter chicken cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
-
Freezer – You can freeze butter chicken for longer storage. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then place it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a skillet on low heat, adding a little water or cream if needed to return the sauce to a creamy consistency.
Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken
To ensure your butter chicken turns out perfect every time, here are some helpful tips:
-
Use Fresh Spices – Fresh spices make a huge difference in flavor. If you can, use ground spices from a high-quality source, and store them in a cool, dry place to maintain their potency.
-
Adjust the Heat – If you prefer your dish spicier, feel free to add more chili powder or even a pinch of cayenne. Conversely, reduce the amount of chili powder if you prefer a milder dish.
-
Balance the Creaminess – The heavy cream and Greek yogurt create the velvety sauce, but you can adjust the ratios to suit your taste. For a lighter sauce, reduce the cream slightly or use a lower-fat alternative.
-
Garnish for Freshness – A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro at the end adds a pop of color and a refreshing burst of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve a dish that’s as rich in flavor as it is easy to make.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, which can enhance the richness of the butter chicken. Simply follow the same steps for cooking the chicken, but remember that thighs may take a bit longer to cook through, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
-
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! This butter chicken skillet is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day or two ahead and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will even develop further, making it taste even better the next day. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving.
-
Can I substitute heavy cream with something lighter?
Yes, if you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, coconut milk, or even Greek yogurt (though it will change the texture and flavor a bit). Keep in mind that these substitutes may not provide the same richness, but they will still create a creamy, delicious sauce.
-
What can I serve this butter chicken with?
This butter chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. For a traditional pairing, serve it with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread. If you’re looking for something different, try it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or a simple green salad for a fresh contrast.
Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillets are a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for any occasion. Tender chicken pieces are cooked in a rich, creamy sauce made with butter, heavy cream, and a blend of spices. Whether served as a comforting dinner or a delicious weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
Scale-
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
-
3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
-
1 onion (finely chopped)
-
3 cloves garlic (minced)
-
2 tbsp tomato paste
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
-
1 tsp paprika
-
1 tsp ground cumin
-
1 tsp garam masala
-
1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
-
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-6 minutes, until browned. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
-
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and sauté the onion for 3 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
-
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
-
Reduce heat to low and add the heavy cream and Greek yogurt, stirring to combine.
-
Return the chicken to the skillet, toss to coat, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
-
Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve hot with rice or naan.
Notes
-
For added crunch, top the butter chicken with chopped nuts like cashews or almonds.
-
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
-
If you prefer, you can substitute the chicken breasts with thighs for extra richness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes