This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a rich, comforting one-pan dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Tender chicken bites are pan-seared and tossed in a velvety, buttery cream sauce infused with garlic, smoked paprika, and Parmesan. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights—just add your favorite sides or serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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Quick, one-pan meal—perfect for busy weeknights
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Packed with high-protein, low-carb ingredients
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Restaurant-style flavor in just 30 minutes
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Creamy garlic butter sauce with smoky paprika undertones
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Ideal for keto or gluten-free diets with minor tweaks
Ingredients Breakdown:
Protein
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Chicken breasts (2, cut into bite-sized pieces): Lean and tender, ideal for quick skillet cooking.
Fats & Cooking Base
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Butter (3 tablespoons): Adds richness and a classic, indulgent flavor.
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Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps brown the chicken and prevents burning.
Seasonings
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Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Provides deep, savory flavor without chopping.
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Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle sweetness and balance.
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Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a hint of smoky depth.
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Salt (1/2 teaspoon) & Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavor.
Sauce Ingredients
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Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Deglazes the skillet and forms the sauce base.
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Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Creates a rich, creamy texture.
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Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated): Adds a salty, umami boost and helps thicken the sauce.
Finishing Touch
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Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds color and a fresh, herby contrast to the creamy sauce.
Tips and Tricks:
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Use freshly grated Parmesan for smoother melting
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Cut chicken evenly for consistent cooking
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Let the sauce reduce slightly before adding chicken for extra thickness
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Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness if desired
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For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes
Variations and Customizations:
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Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles
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Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers
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Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in mozzarella for an extra cheesy finish
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Grilled Chicken Version: Use grilled chicken strips for smoky depth
Pairing Suggestions:
Serve this creamy butter chicken skillet with:
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Steamed white rice or garlic mashed potatoes
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Buttery dinner rolls or crusty French bread
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Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli
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A glass of chilled Chardonnay or iced sweet tea
Storage Instructions:
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Freezer: Freeze cooled portions for up to 2 months
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Reheat Gently: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream to revive the sauce
Popular Questions:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work well and add a bit more flavor and juiciness.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, simply ensure the Parmesan and broth are low-carb, and avoid starchy sides.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
