If you are craving a comforting dish that combines rich, buttery goodness with aromatic spices, the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need in your dinner rotation. This skillet meal is a luscious blend of tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy sauce infused with curry, garlic, and ginger, delivering flavors that are both familiar and delightfully vibrant. The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way it effortlessly transforms everyday ingredients into a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, yet each plays a crucial role in building the delectable flavor and creamy texture that makes this skillet chicken stand out. From the smooth richness of butter and heavy cream to the punchy warmth of curry powder and fresh garlic, every component brings something special to the table.
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced: Choose fresh chicken breasts for tender, juicy bites that soak up the sauce perfectly.
- 1/2 cup butter: This brings indulgent creaminess and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds that silky texture that makes the sauce so luxurious.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Balances the richness and adds depth of flavor.
- 2 tbsp garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant punch that wakes up your taste buds.
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced: Adds warmth and subtle zest that complements the curry.
- 2 tbsp curry powder: The star spice that brings authentic, aromatic notes to the skillet.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a mild smoky sweetness and beautiful color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that enhances all the other flavors.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish: A burst of fresh, herbal brightness to finish off the dish.
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Melt Butter and Cook Chicken
Begin by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. This sets the stage for the rich flavor foundation. Add the diced chicken, letting it cook until each piece turns golden brown and is cooked through. Taking your time here ensures juicy chicken that holds up well in the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Once the chicken is nicely browned, stir in the minced garlic and ginger. Cook for about a minute until they become fragrant, which infuses the skillet with amazing aroma that hints at the delicious meal to come.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Next, sprinkle in the curry powder and paprika, stirring to coat the chicken evenly. These spices transform the dish, delivering warm, vibrant flavors that define the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring constantly to combine all the ingredients into a luscious sauce. This step is key to achieving that signature creamy texture that clings to every morsel of chicken.
Step 5: Season and Simmer
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly. This simmering step helps the dish develop its full, rich character.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Cilantro
Just before serving, sprinkle fresh cilantro over the skillet. This bright, herbal touch not only adds a pop of color but also lightens the dish with its fresh aroma, completing the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe perfectly.
How to Serve Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is the classic garnish for this dish, adding vibrant green hues and a fresh, aromatic lift that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. You might also consider a wedge of lime on the side for a zesty squeeze or some thinly sliced green onions for an extra burst of color and mild flavor.
Side Dishes
This butter chicken skillet pairs beautifully with simple sides that allow the main flavors to shine. Fluffy basmati rice is a perfect canvas to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots add texture and fresh balance. For a low-carb option, try serving the dish over cauliflower rice or alongside a crisp green salad.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress friends or family, serve the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe straight from a rustic cast iron pan for a cozy, inviting vibe. Alternatively, plating the chicken and spooning the sauce over a bed of rice with a sprinkle of chopped nuts like cashews or almonds adds a delightful crunch and extra richness. Garnishing with edible flowers or microgreens can elevate the presentation for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover butter chicken tastes just as wonderful the next day, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal. Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring the sauce remains thick and flavorful.
Freezing
This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe also freezes well. Transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. You can add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much. Microwaving works too, just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even more flavorful and tender. Just dice and cook them the same way; the sauce will complement their richer taste perfectly.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
You can swap the butter for coconut oil and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream to make a delicious dairy-free version. The coconut flavors will add an interesting twist while maintaining creaminess.
How spicy is this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe?
This recipe is mildly spiced since the curry powder provides warmth without too much heat. If you prefer it spicier, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped chili peppers.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a party?
Yes! You can cook the entire dish a day ahead and reheat it just before serving. This makes it perfect for entertaining without the last-minute stress.
What can I substitute if I don’t have chicken broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water with a bit of added seasoning (like bouillon cubes) can work just fine. Just make sure to adjust salt levels accordingly.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about a dish that feels both indulgent and simple, and the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe hits that sweet spot perfectly. It’s a recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again, whether for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Once you try this buttery, creamy, and spice-kissed skillet chicken, I’m confident it’ll become a beloved favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American with Indian-inspired flavors
Description
This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet offers a rich and creamy flavor packed with tender chicken breast simmered in a buttery, spiced curry sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, this hearty skillet meal combines bold spices like garlic, ginger, curry powder, and paprika with a luscious blend of heavy cream and chicken broth, garnished with fresh cilantro for a satisfying finish.
Ingredients
Chicken and Spices
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquids and Fats
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Melt the Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until fully liquefied and slightly bubbling.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant to develop aromatic flavors.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle the curry powder and paprika over the chicken mixture, stirring well to evenly coat and toast the spices for flavor enhancement.
- Incorporate Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring thoroughly to combine all ingredients into a smooth sauce.
- Simmer: Season with salt and pepper to taste, then reduce heat slightly and let the skillet simmer gently for 5-7 minutes to thicken the sauce and meld the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving hot, ideal to pair with rice or bread.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes along with the curry powder.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
- Ensure chicken is diced uniformly to promote even cooking.
- Use fresh garlic and ginger instead of powders for the best flavor.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread.
