Introduction: A Southern Skillet Favorite

Imagine a sizzling skillet on your table, filled with tender chicken bathed in a buttery sauce with garlic, paprika, and cream. This Texas Roadhouse butter chicken skillet captures that steakhouse magic right in your kitchen. It’s hearty, full of Texas flavor, and incredibly satisfying.

Creamy paprika chicken pieces in a cast iron skillet simmered in rich red sauce

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Skillet meals offer all the pleasure of restaurant dining without leaving home. A cast iron skillet builds a perfect sear and keeps everything hot. It’s easy enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests.

Why you’ll love this recipe:

Only one pan needed, so cleanup is simple.
The sauce is rich, balanced, and not too heavy.
You can adjust it easily — change the spices, swap cream types, use different cuts of chicken.

If you enjoy Texas Roadhouse style dishes, this will become a favorite.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Having everything ready speeds up cooking and keeps stress low. Set out all your ingredients and tools first.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Cast iron skillet (12-inch is best)
Cutting board and sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Tongs or spatula

Each tool has a purpose. A cast iron skillet sears the chicken beautifully. Measuring accurately means your sauce won’t turn too thick or runny. A whisk keeps the sauce silky.

Preparation Tips

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes in olive oil, garlic, and paprika for more flavor.
Pat the chicken dry to get a good sear.
Let the butter sit at room temp so it melts smoothly.

Ingredients List

Protein

2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs, cut into strips or cubes

Dairy & Fats

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
½ cup heavy cream

Seasonings & Aromatics

1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
Optional pinch of cayenne for heat

Garnish

Fresh chopped parsley
Squeeze of lemon juice (optional)

Step-by-Step Directions

In a bowl, season the chicken with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Stir to coat.
Heat your skillet over medium-high. Add 2 tablespoons butter. Once melted and foaming, swirl it around.
Add chicken in a single layer. Cook in batches if needed so it browns, not steams. Sear 4-5 minutes each side. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate.
Lower heat to medium. Add remaining butter and minced garlic. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream. Whisk while scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Simmer 2-3 minutes to slightly thicken.
Return chicken to skillet. Toss to coat well. Cook 5 more minutes until chicken reaches 165°F inside.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and squeeze lemon over top. Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Texas Roadhouse butter chicken skillet straight from the hot pan. It feels like a steakhouse presentation at home.

Pairs perfectly with:

Garlic mashed potatoes
Thick-cut Texas toast
Steamed green beans
Sweet corn skillet

For drinks, try sweet tea, a crisp lager, or lemon water.

Common Mistakes To Avoid & How To Perfect It

Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Work in batches to keep searing, not steaming.
Avoid high heat when the cream goes in. Medium heat keeps the sauce from splitting.
Let the dish rest five minutes before serving. Juices redistribute and sauce thickens.

Side Dish Recommendations

Garlic mashed potatoes
Cheddar Texas toast
Honey glazed carrots
Loaded baked potatoes
Creamed corn
Caesar salad with crunchy croutons
Southern mac & cheese
Crisp coleslaw with a vinegar pop

Recipe Tips, Storage and Reheating Instructions

Always sear chicken on high first, then reduce heat for sauce.
Fresh garlic makes a big difference over jarred.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
This dish doesn’t freeze well because of the cream sauce.
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low, adding a splash of cream if needed.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs stay juicier and are more forgiving.

How spicy is it?
Mild as written. Add cayenne for heat.

What if my sauce splits?
Take off the heat right away and whisk hard. A splash of cream helps pull it back together.

Is it gluten free?
Yes, provided your seasonings and broth are certified gluten free.

Can I make it dairy free?
Use full-fat coconut milk and vegan butter, though it will taste different.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, just toss it in at the end to warm through.

Conclusion

This Texas Roadhouse butter chicken skillet proves you can make a restaurant-worthy meal at home. It’s buttery, savory, and absolutely satisfying. Once you try it, it’ll be on repeat.

If you loved this, check out our other Texas-style recipes or explore more easy skillet dinners for your next meal.