Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken

This skillet Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken brings together juicy pan-seared chicken with a velvety butter honey sauce and just a hint of spice. All it takes is a few pantry staples and everyday know-how to create a restaurant-style meal at home even on the busiest nights.

Made this for the first time on a hectic weeknight and it was such a hit my family asked for it again the very next day. The buttery sauce works magic soaking into rice or mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: the main protein pick plump cuts with a pink hue
• Garlic: fresh cloves minced for bold aroma try to use firm unblemished bulbs
• Butter: unsalted or salted for a silky rich sauce look for quality butter with high butterfat
• Chicken broth: boosts the flavor of the sauce low sodium works best to control taste
• Honey: pure honey for that signature sweetness raw or local honey if possible
• Paprika: smokiness and warmth adds color choose fresh paprika for better flavor
• Dried parsley: for brightness and color check that your herbs are green not faded
• Salt and cracked black pepper: bring all flavors together grind pepper fresh for best results
• Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (optional): adds creaminess go for blocks you shred yourself
• Caramelized onions (optional): for deep flavor and sweetness slowly browned onions are worth it

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken:

Pat the chicken dry so it sears evenly then sprinkle both sides with a mixture of salt cracked black pepper and paprika for an even layer of seasoning that will stick during cooking

Sear the Chicken:

Preheat a large skillet over medium heat add half the butter and wait until it foams Place the chicken in a single layer and cook undisturbed for five to six minutes per side Thickness will affect timing you want a deep golden crust when ready Remove chicken to a plate

Build the Sauce Base:

Return the skillet to medium heat and melt the rest of the butter Add minced garlic stirring constantly for just under a minute Watch closely so it sizzles but does not brown too much catching this at the right moment keeps garlic sweet and not bitter

Deglaze the Pan:

Pour in the chicken broth and add honey immediately Use your spoon to gently scrape any stuck bits off the bottom These caramelized spots dissolve into the broth for a deep base flavor

Return and Simmer:

Nestle the chicken back into the skillet Spoon the sauce over each piece so it soaks in Leave the skillet uncovered for five to seven minutes letting the sauce bubble and thicken Gently move the chicken to prevent sticking

Melt in the Cheese:

If using cheese sprinkle it directly over the chicken Lower the heat and cover skillet just long enough for the cheese to melt into gooey goodness

Garnish and Serve:

Dust with dried parsley for color Add a heap of caramelized onions if you want each bite with an extra tangle of sweetness Serve chicken smothered in sauce

Pin it

I love honey in this recipe the hint of floral sweetness makes the savory flavors pop It reminds me of the little honey packets served with bread at diners always a treat for my kids

Storage Tips

Let the chicken and sauce cool completely before transferring to airtight containers Store in the fridge for up to three days and always reheat gently over low heat or in the microwave to keep the meat juicy The butter sauce can thicken in the fridge so add a splash of water or broth when reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken thighs for a deeper flavor and juicier result If you do not have honey maple syrup works though it adds a slightly woodier sweetness No chicken broth Use vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of extra salt For a dairy free version try olive oil instead of butter but it will change the flavor

Serving Suggestions

Serve over mashed potatoes rice noodles or even toasted thick bread Every spoonful of sauce begs for something to soak it up Add roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad drizzled with citrus dressing for a well rounded table

Pin it

Cultural Context

Inspired by the indulgent butter sauces seen in American comfort food and steakhouse classics this dish spins a little bit of Texas Roadhouse charm into a home kitchen meal The honey butter and savory pan sauce nod to Southern family tables while the cheese addition takes it into satisfying weeknight territory

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What cut of chicken works best in this dish?

Both boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs work well. Thighs add richer flavor and stay juicy.

→ How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. It should be golden on the outside and no longer pink inside.

→ Can I make this without honey?

Yes, honey brings sweetness, but you can substitute with maple syrup or omit for a strictly savory dish.

→ Is cheese necessary in this dish?

Cheese is optional. It adds a creamy layer, but the chicken tastes delicious with or without it.

→ What sides pair well with this chicken?

Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad to soak up the flavorful sauce.