Name: Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet: Easy & Delicious!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, 1-inch pieces; 1/2 cup plain whole milk yogurt; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (for marinade); 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic (for marinade); 1 teaspoon ground turmeric (for marinade); 1 teaspoon ground cumin (for marinade); 1 teaspoon garam masala (for marinade); 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for marinade, adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon salt (for marinade); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for marinade); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for searing chicken); ¼ cup unsalted butter; 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger (for sauce); 2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic (for sauce); 1 teaspoon ground cumin (for sauce); 1 teaspoon ground coriander (for sauce); 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (for sauce); 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for sauce, adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon garam masala (for sauce); 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional); 1 teaspoon salt (for sauce, or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for sauce, or to taste); Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); Basmati rice or naan bread (for serving); Fresh lime juice (optional, for brightness)

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet – prepare to have your culinary expectations delightfully subverted! I am incredibly excited to share a recipe that perfectly marries the rich, aromatic spices of traditional Indian butter chicken with the hearty, comforting, skillet-style preparation often associated with classic American home cooking. This isn’t about replicating a specific menu item, but rather capturing that essence of satisfying, flavorful, and generously portioned meals, all while infusing the universally adored, creamy indulgence of butter chicken.

Imagine tender, succulent pieces of chicken, bathed in a velvety, tomato-based sauce, subtly spiced with ginger, garlic, and garam masala, all cooked effortlessly in a single pan. That’s the magic we’re aiming for with our homemade Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet. People adore this unique fusion because it offers the familiar warmth and hearty feel of a comfort food meal with an exciting, exotic twist. It’s incredibly flavorful, delivers a melt-in-your-mouth texture, and, perhaps best of all, it’s a surprisingly convenient weeknight meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare. This dish truly offers comfort, innovation, and incredible taste in every single bite, making it an instant family favorite.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken & Marinade:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup plain whole milk yogurt (Greek yogurt can also be used for a thicker marinade)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or other neutral oil) for searing
For the Rich Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes (or tomato purée)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
For Garnish & Serving:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Basmati rice or naan bread (for serving)
- A squeeze of fresh lime juice (optional, for brightness)
- Extra heavy cream, for drizzling (optional)

Prep Work & Marinating the Chicken

Prepare the Chicken: First things first, I always make sure my chicken is perfectly prepped. Take your boneless, skinless chicken thighs and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear later on. Then, grab a sharp knife and cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces. Consistency in size ensures that every piece cooks evenly, so you don’t end up with some undercooked and some overcooked bits. Place these perfectly portioned chicken pieces into a large mixing bowl.
Whip Up the Marinade: In a separate, smaller bowl, let’s create our incredible flavor-packed marinade. Combine the plain whole milk yogurt, fresh lemon juice, grated fresh ginger, minced fresh garlic, ground turmeric, ground cumin, garam masala, cayenne pepper (if you love a little kick, feel free to add a smidge more!), salt, and black pepper. Whisk all these ingredients together until you have a smooth, fragrant paste. I find that a good whisk ensures everything is perfectly integrated, which will result in maximum flavor infusion for our Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.
Marinate the Chicken: Pour this aromatic marinade over the chicken pieces in the large bowl. Using your hands (or a spoon, if you prefer, but I find hands work best for full coverage), toss the chicken until every single piece is thoroughly coated in the marinade. Make sure there’s no naked chicken! Once coated, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Now, for the hard part: waiting! Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for the absolute best flavor and tender texture, I highly recommend letting it marinate for 2-4 hours. If you have the time, you can even marinate it overnight (up to 12 hours) – trust me, it’s worth the wait for this delicious Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet. The yogurt acts as a tenderizer, and the spices infuse deep into the meat.
Pre-Cook Prep: About 15-20 minutes before you’re ready to start cooking, take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator. This allows it to come closer to room temperature, which promotes more even cooking. While the chicken is resting, gather all your ingredients for the butter sauce. Having everything prepped and measured out (this is called “mise en place,” a chef’s best friend!) will make the cooking process much smoother and more enjoyable.

Crafting the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Sauce

Sauté the Aromatics: Grab a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or a Dutch oven – something that can comfortably hold all our chicken and sauce later. Place it over medium heat. Once warm, add the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it melt until it’s shimmering and just starting to foam, but don’t let it brown. Add the finely chopped yellow onion to the melted butter. Sauté the onion for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes wonderfully soft, translucent, and slightly golden. Patience here is key, as properly caramelized onions form the sweet and savory base of our incredible sauce for the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.
Introduce Ginger and Garlic: Once the onions are ready, add the grated fresh ginger and minced fresh garlic to the skillet. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until these aromatics become fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the delicate flavor profile we’re building. The kitchen should start smelling absolutely divine at this point!
Toast the Spices: Now comes the spice explosion! Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, cayenne pepper, and garam masala to the skillet with the onions, ginger, and garlic. Stir these spices constantly for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. This brief toasting process, often called “blooming” the spices, intensifies their flavors and aromas by releasing their essential oils. You’ll notice the spices becoming incredibly fragrant; this is exactly what we want for our rich Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet sauce.
Build the Tomato Base: Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes (or tomato purée). Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Add the chicken broth, granulated sugar (if using – it helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes and rounds out the flavor beautifully), salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for at least 15-20 minutes. This simmering time allows all the flavors to meld together and for the tomato base to cook down slightly, developing a deeper, richer taste. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Achieve a Smooth Sauce (Optional but Recommended): For a truly restaurant-quality, silky-smooth sauce for your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet, I highly recommend pureeing it at this stage. You can either carefully transfer the hot sauce to a blender and blend until smooth (be very cautious when blending hot liquids – start on low and gradually increase speed, holding the lid down firmly), or use an immersion blender directly in the skillet. If using a blender, return the pureed sauce to the skillet after blending.
Enrich with Cream: Finally, stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) into the sauce. Continue to simmer gently for another 5 minutes, allowing the cream to fully incorporate and the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. This is your chance to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a touch more cayenne if you desire a spicier kick. Set the sauce aside while we cook the chicken.

Cooking the Chicken to Perfection

Prepare for Searing: Retrieve your marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Heat a large, sturdy skillet (the same one you used for the sauce if you transferred the sauce to a separate bowl, or a clean one if not) over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. You want the oil to be shimmering and hot, but not smoking.
Sear the Chicken in Batches: This is a crucial step for building flavor. Carefully add about half of the marinated chicken pieces to the hot skillet in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of searing it, preventing that beautiful golden-brown crust. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side, until it’s beautifully browned and caramelized. You’re not trying to cook the chicken through completely at this stage, just building that incredible crust and locking in the juices. Once browned on all sides, remove the first batch of chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Repeat this process with the remaining chicken, adding a little more oil if needed. This step gives our Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet its signature texture and depth.
Deglaze (Optional, but Recommended): If there are any browned bits stuck to the bottom of your skillet after searing the chicken, you can quickly deglaze the pan for extra flavor. Add a splash of water or chicken broth (about 1/4 cup) to the hot pan and scrape up all those delicious bits with a wooden spoon. This adds even more richness to our final dish.

Assembling the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

Combine Chicken and Sauce: Once all the chicken is seared and set aside, return your prepared butter sauce to the same large skillet (if you had pureed it and set it aside) or simply continue in the same pan if the sauce was already there. Bring the sauce back to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
Introduce the Chicken: Carefully add all the seared chicken pieces back into the simmering butter sauce. Stir gently to ensure every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the rich, creamy sauce.
Simmer and Finish Cooking: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes. This allows the chicken to finish cooking through completely, absorbing all the incredible flavors of the sauce, and becoming wonderfully tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The sauce will also thicken slightly as it simmers with the chicken. You’ll know the chicken is done when it’s opaque throughout and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
A Moment to Rest: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. I always recommend letting the dish rest, still covered, for 5 minutes before serving. This brief rest allows the juices in the chicken to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. It also allows the flavors to truly settle and meld together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions & Final Touches

Garnish with Freshness: Before serving your glorious Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet, give it a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro. The vibrant green and fresh, herbaceous flavor of cilantro beautifully complements the rich, savory notes of the butter chicken, adding a much-needed pop of brightness.
Optional Drizzle: For an extra touch of indulgence and visual appeal, you can drizzle a tiny bit of extra heavy cream over the top just before serving. This creates a lovely marbled effect and adds a luxurious finish. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can also be added at this stage if you desire a little more acidity to cut through the richness.
Serve It Up: This incredible Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a complete meal in itself, but it truly shines when served alongside some classic accompaniments. My absolute favorite way to enjoy it is with fluffy basmati rice, which soaks up all that amazing sauce. Warm, fresh naan bread is also an absolute must for scooping up every last drop of the creamy goodness. Consider offering a side of cooling raita (cucumber yogurt dip) or a simple green salad to balance the richness.
Enjoy the Fruits of Your Labor: Gather your loved ones and enjoy this magnificent creation! The combination of tender, flavorful chicken bathed in a rich, aromatic, and perfectly spiced butter sauce is an experience you won’t soon forget. It’s truly a labor of love that pays off in every single bite, bringing the comforting and satisfying taste of a gourmet meal right into your home. This dish also makes for fantastic leftovers, as the flavors tend to deepen even further overnight. Just gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

<h2>Conclusion:</h2>
<p>Okay, friends, if you’ve made it this far, you’re just moments away from culinary bliss. I truly believe that this recipe for the <strong>Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet</strong> is going to be a game-changer in your kitchen. Why is it an absolute must-try? Well, it’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine tender, succulent pieces of chicken, swimming in a rich, velvety, savory sauce that clings to every single bite. The aroma alone will transport you to a cozy, comforting place, reminiscent of your favorite hearty American restaurant, but with that delightful Indian-inspired twist that makes butter chicken so universally adored. This isn’t just another dinner; it’s a statement. It’s comfort food elevated, offering complex flavors without complicated steps. It’s surprisingly straightforward to prepare, making it absolutely perfect for a busy weeknight when you crave something extraordinary but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Yet, it’s impressive enough to serve to guests, leaving them wondering if you secretly hired a gourmet chef. The balance of sweet and savory, the subtle warmth of the spices, and the sheer creaminess of the sauce — it all comes together in a symphony of taste that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds, and probably the recipe too! This dish truly embodies the spirit of hearty, satisfying home cooking.</p>

<h4>Elevate Your Meal: Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations</h4>
<p>Now, while this skillet dish is undeniably delicious on its own, it truly shines when paired with the right accompaniments. My personal favorite way to serve the <strong>Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet</strong> is alongside a generous helping of fluffy basmati rice, which soaks up every last drop of that incredible sauce like a dream. Steamed white rice or even a simple brown rice would also be fantastic choices. For those who prefer something a bit heartier and even more indulgent, a side of creamy mashed potatoes is an absolute dream pairing; the textures are just divine together. Don’t forget a warm, crusty bread — perhaps a naan or even a rustic French baguette — perfect for scooping up any remaining sauce, because trust me, you won’t want to leave even a smear behind! To round out the meal and add a touch of freshness, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or some vibrant steamed green beans or broccoli provides a lovely contrast.</p>
<p>But the fun doesn’t stop there! This recipe is incredibly versatile and open to your creative touches. Want to sneak in more vegetables? Try adding some diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange would be beautiful and add a touch of sweetness!), sliced mushrooms, or even a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll wilt beautifully into the sauce and add extra nutrition and color. For a touch of extra heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely diced jalapeño can be stirred in to suit your palate. If you’re looking to change up the protein, while chicken is traditional, I’ve seen adventurous cooks try it with shrimp (just remember to reduce cooking time significantly!) or even firm paneer cheese for a delicious vegetarian option. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley before serving brightens up the flavors even further. You could even experiment with different types of cheese melted on top for an extra layer of richness, although it’s already perfectly decadent as is. The possibilities are truly endless, so feel free to make this recipe uniquely your own and tailored to your family’s preferences!</p>

<h4>Your Culinary Adventure Awaits!</h4>
<p>So, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on this delicious journey. This <strong>Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet</strong> is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create something truly special in your own kitchen. It’s about bringing joy to your table, whether it’s for a quiet family dinner, a lively gathering with friends, or simply a treat for yourself after a long week. The immense satisfaction you’ll feel when you take that first glorious bite, knowing you crafted such an incredible dish from scratch, is truly unmatched. Don’t be shy; give it a try this week! I promise you won’t regret it.</p>
<p>And once you do, please, please, please share your experience with me! I absolutely adore hearing from you and seeing your culinary creations. Did you add a unique twist? Did your family rave about it? Snap a photo of your magnificent skillet and tell me all about it in the comments section below, or even on social media. Your feedback, stories, and suggestions are what make this community so vibrant and inspiring. Let’s celebrate the joy of home cooking together and inspire each other to try new flavors and techniques. Happy cooking, my friends! I can’t wait to hear how much you loved it and how this amazing skillet became a new favorite in your home.</p>