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Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

A comforting dish featuring tender chicken in a creamy, buttery sauce with garlic and lemon, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Keyword: Butter Chicken, comfort food, Creamy Chicken, Easy Dinner, Skillet Recipe
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 550kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks Juicy and tender, these chicken pieces form the heart of the dish.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Rich and creamy, this butter forms the luxurious base of your sauce.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Adds a velvety smooth texture that’s simply irresistible.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic and pungent, garlic elevates the dish with its warm flavors.
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth A savory addition that deepens the flavor profile.
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice The bright acidity cuts through the richness, balancing all the flavors.
  • 1 tsp dried thyme Earthy and fragrant, enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1 tsp ground paprika Sweet and smoky, adds depth and a beautiful color.
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper A gentle kick that complements the dish without overpowering it.
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional) For those who enjoy a sprinkle of heat in their meals.
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional) Perfect for thickening the sauce to your desire.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese An umami-rich finishing touch that enhances the dish's creaminess.
  • Salt, to taste Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
  • Chopped green onions and parsley, for garnish Fresh, bright toppings that add a pop of color and flavor.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  • Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken in batches for about 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside to keep warm.

Sauce Preparation

  • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using) and let simmer for about 3–5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

  • Return the seared chicken to the skillet and sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Mix cornstarch with cold water if a thicker consistency is desired.

Garnish and Serve

  • Sprinkle with chopped parsley and green onions before serving hot with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

For an intense flavor, marinate the chicken before cooking. Consider adding spinach or mushrooms for more vegetables. For extra creaminess, whisk in cream cheese. Use smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.