Name: Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken: 40 Min Flavor Bomb
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Salt to taste; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken has become my go-to for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner, and I’m so excited to share this copycat recipe with you! It reminds me of those cozy evenings when the aroma of spices fills the air, and you just know a delicious meal is coming. This homemade Texas Roadhouse butter chicken skillet is packed with tender chicken coated in a rich, creamy, and slightly spicy sauce that’s incredibly satisfying. You’ll love the bold flavors that are oh-so-close to the restaurant’s classic dish. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken

This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a weeknight wonder for so many reasons:

Incredibly Flavorful: It captures that signature sweet and savory profile you expect.
Quick to Make: Ready in about 40 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
Restaurant Quality at Home: Enjoy a Texas Roadhouse copycat meal without leaving your kitchen.
Satisfyingly Creamy: The rich butter sauce is pure comfort food.
Customizable Spice Level: Easily adjust the red pepper flakes for your perfect heat.
Easy Skillet Meal: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pan.
Versatile Serving: This homemade Texas Roadhouse butter chicken pairs perfectly with rice or naan.

Ingredients for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to making an amazing Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken skillet right in your own kitchen. This recipe focuses on creating that signature creamy, slightly sweet, and savory flavor profile we all love from the restaurant.

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces – the star of our Texas Roadhouse style butter chicken
1 tbsp olive oil – for searing the chicken
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika – adds a hint of color and mild flavor
1/4 tsp black pepper
Salt to taste – essential for bringing out all the flavors
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter – this is key for that rich, buttery sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced – for that fresh garlic punch
1/2 cup chicken broth – adds liquid and savory depth
1/4 cup heavy cream – makes our Texas Roadhouse menu butter chicken wonderfully creamy
2 tbsp tomato paste – provides a base for the sauce’s color and tang
1 tbsp honey – balances the savory notes with a touch of sweetness
1 tsp lemon juice – brightens up the sauce
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – for a touch of heat in this copycat Texas Roadhouse butter chicken
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – adds a pop of freshness and color

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How to Make Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken

Ready to create your own delicious skillet of Texas Roadhouse butter chicken? This recipe is surprisingly simple and comes together quickly, making it perfect for any night you’re craving a taste of the restaurant. Follow these easy steps to achieve that signature creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavor profile.

Step 1: In a medium bowl, toss your 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and salt to taste. Let this mixture marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare your skillet.
Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer, ensuring not to crowd the pan. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is beautifully browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter. Add the 4 cloves garlic, minced, and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes wonderfully fragrant – you’ll love this aroma!
Step 4: Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1/4 cup heavy cream, and 2 tbsp tomato paste. Whisk everything together until the tomato paste is fully incorporated into the liquid.
Step 5: Stir in 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp lemon juice, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Season with a little more salt if needed. Let this sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken slightly. This is where the magic happens for your Texas Roadhouse style butter chicken.
Step 6: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Gently stir the chicken into the luscious butter sauce, making sure each piece is coated in that delicious flavor.
Step 7: Allow everything to simmer together for another 2-3 minutes. This short time lets the flavors meld beautifully, creating a truly authentic copycat Texas Roadhouse butter chicken experience.
Step 8: Garnish your creation with fresh parsley, chopped, for a burst of color and freshness. Serve this amazing Texas Roadhouse butter chicken recipe hot, ideally with fluffy rice or warm naan bread.

Tips for Perfect Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken

To elevate your homemade Texas Roadhouse butter chicken, consider these helpful tips. Marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes, or even longer in the refrigerator, allows the spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in more flavorful, tender meat. If you enjoy a bit more depth, adding about 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin along with the other spices can introduce a lovely earthy note that complements the richness of the butter sauce. Don’t rush the sauce simmering stage; letting it thicken naturally ensures a luxurious texture that perfectly coats the chicken. For more information on the benefits of spices, you can explore resources on culinary herbs and spices.

Pro Tips for the Best Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken

Creating that perfect restaurant-style flavor at home is totally achievable with a few insider tricks. These tips will ensure your Texas Roadhouse butter chicken is a showstopper every time you make it. From marinating to spice adjustments, these little details make a big difference in achieving that authentic taste and tender texture.

Always marinate your chicken for at least 15-30 minutes before cooking. This is key for infusing flavor deep into the meat.
Don’t skip the step of browning the chicken properly; this adds a delicious depth of flavor to the final dish.
Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the sauce-making process to ensure the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spice.

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What’s the secret to perfect Texas Roadhouse butter chicken?

The real secret lies in building layers of flavor. Using good quality butter, fresh garlic, and letting the sauce simmer to thicken ensures a rich, creamy texture that perfectly coats the tender chicken. It’s all about that balance!

Can I make Texas Roadhouse butter chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time! Marinate the chicken and chop your aromatics. You can even make the sauce separately and store it in the fridge. Then, just cook the chicken and combine everything when you’re ready to serve for a quicker meal assembly.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Texas Roadhouse butter chicken?

A common pitfall is overcooking the chicken, which makes it dry. Be sure to cook it just until done. Also, avoid rushing the sauce; letting it simmer allows it to thicken properly for that luscious consistency.

Best Ways to Serve Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken

This incredible Texas Roadhouse butter chicken recipe is so versatile, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that complement its rich and creamy flavor. For a truly authentic experience, serve it over fluffy basmati rice or jasmine rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. If you’re looking for a more traditional Indian-inspired pairing, warm naan bread is absolutely perfect for scooping up every last bite. You could also serve this Texas Roadhouse copycat butter chicken alongside a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add a fresh contrast to the richness.

Nutrition Facts for Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken

When you’re enjoying this delicious Texas Roadhouse butter chicken skillet, it’s helpful to know what you’re getting nutritionally. This recipe brings that beloved restaurant flavor right into your home, and while it’s a treat, understanding the breakdown can help you fit it into your meal plan. This dish is rich and satisfying, offering a good source of protein from the chicken.

Calories: 650 kcal
Fat: 45 g
Saturated Fat: 25 g
Protein: 40 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 800 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken

Once you’ve enjoyed this delightful Texas Roadhouse butter chicken, you might have leftovers, or perhaps you’ve made a big batch to have on hand. Proper storage is key to keeping this dish delicious. First, let the chicken cool down at room temperature for no more than two hours. Then, transfer it into airtight containers. This homemade Texas Roadhouse butter chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap it well to prevent freezer burn, and it should last for up to 3 months. This makes having a quick Texas Roadhouse copycat butter chicken meal super convenient!

Reheating is simple! For refrigerated leftovers, gently warm the Texas Roadhouse butter chicken recipe in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it, stirring halfway through for even heating. For frozen portions, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using the stovetop or microwave method. This ensures your leftovers are just as tasty as when they were freshly made.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken

What makes this butter chicken taste like Texas Roadhouse?

The magic lies in the balance of sweet and savory elements, much like the restaurant’s signature dishes. We achieve this by using honey for sweetness and a touch of tomato paste for a savory depth, combined with rich butter and aromatic garlic. It’s this specific flavor profile that makes our Texas Roadhouse butter chicken recipe so spot-on.

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

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative and can even make the dish more tender and flavorful, as they have a bit more fat. Just be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces and cook them until they are thoroughly done. This variation is a great way to customize your Texas Roadhouse menu butter chicken.

Is this Texas Roadhouse butter chicken recipe spicy?

The base recipe is designed to be mild and creamy, with just a hint of warmth from the optional red pepper flakes. If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. This flexibility allows you to tailor the heat to your preference for your homemade Texas Roadhouse butter chicken.

What side dishes go best with Texas Roadhouse butter chicken?

This Texas Roadhouse copycat butter chicken is incredibly versatile. It pairs wonderfully with fluffy white rice, basmati rice, or jasmine rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. Warm, soft naan bread is also a classic choice for dipping. For a lighter option, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to balance the richness.

Variations of Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken You Can Try

While this Texas Roadhouse butter chicken recipe is fantastic as is, don’t be afraid to get creative! You can easily adapt it to suit different tastes and dietary needs. For a lighter version, consider using chicken breast, and for an even richer flavor, chicken thighs are a superb choice. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can experiment with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer in place of the heavy cream. For a different cooking method, try this as a Texas Roadhouse style butter chicken baked dish by transferring the sauce and chicken to a baking dish and baking until bubbly. You can also amp up the flavor by adding a pinch of garam masala for a more complex spice profile in your homemade Texas Roadhouse butter chicken.