Butter Chicken Skillet with Cheese

This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet delivers restaurant-quality comfort food right in your own kitchen. The creamy cheese sauce bathes tender chicken pieces in rich flavor while requiring minimal effort. Perfect for those nights when you crave something indulgent without the hassle of dining out.

I first made this dish when craving Texas Roadhouse flavors but couldn't justify the drive across town. My family now requests this butter chicken skillet weekly and they swear it tastes even better than the restaurant version.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts. Select plump ones with even thickness for consistent cooking
• Butter. Use real butter not margarine for that authentic Texas Roadhouse richness
• Onion. Adds aromatic sweetness as the foundation of flavor
• Garlic powder. Provides classic savory notes without the risk of burning that fresh garlic has
• Paprika. Contributes subtle smokiness and beautiful color
• Chili powder. Optional but recommended for that signature southwestern warmth
• Chicken broth. Use low sodium to control the salt level in your final dish
• Heavy cream. Creates the luxurious mouthfeel this dish is known for
• Cheddar cheese. Sharp varieties provide the best flavor contrast against the cream
• Fresh herbs. Brightens the rich dish with color and freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the Butter.

Heat your skillet over medium heat and add butter letting it melt completely until it begins to bubble slightly but not brown. This creates the perfect foundation for building flavors.

Soften the Aromatics.

Add diced onion to the melted butter and cook for about 5 minutes stirring occasionally until the onions become translucent and soft. The onions should not brown but rather become sweet and aromatic.

Season the Chicken.

Place your chicken pieces in a bowl and sprinkle with garlic powder paprika chili powder if using salt and pepper. Toss to coat each piece evenly ensuring every bite will be properly seasoned.

Brown the Chicken.

Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet with the softened onions. Cook for 7 to 8 minutes turning occasionally until all sides are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Proper browning creates depth of flavor.

Deglaze the Pan.

Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These bits contain concentrated flavor that enriches your sauce. Let simmer for 3 to 5 minutes allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.

Create the Cream Base.

Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream stirring gently to incorporate. Allow the mixture to warm through for about 2 minutes without boiling which could cause separation.

Develop the Cheese Sauce.

Add the shredded cheese in small handfuls stirring continuously between additions. This gradual approach ensures a smooth sauce without clumping. Continue until all cheese is incorporated and the sauce is velvety.

Thicken the Sauce.

Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes stirring occasionally as the sauce thickens to coat the back of a spoon. The sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.

Garnish and Serve.

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro just before serving to add brightness to the rich dish. Serve immediately while the sauce is at its creamiest consistency.

Bookmark

The heavy cream is truly the secret ingredient here. I learned from my grandmother that taking the time to slowly warm it prevents the sauce from breaking later. She always said patience with dairy is the difference between a good cook and a great one.

Make Ahead Options

This butter chicken reheats beautifully making it perfect for meal prep. Prepare the entire dish up to three days ahead and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve reheat gently in a skillet over medium low heat adding a splash of cream if needed to revive the sauce. The flavors actually develop further after a day in the refrigerator making this an ideal prepare ahead meal for busy households.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own this Texas Roadhouse inspired chicken pairs wonderfully with sides that complement its richness. Serve over buttered egg noodles or rice to soak up the incredible cheese sauce. For a lower carb option consider cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Classic Texas Roadhouse sides like steamed vegetables or a simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing provide refreshing contrast. For an authentic experience serve with warm dinner rolls and cinnamon butter.

Dietary Modifications

This recipe easily adapts to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. For a lighter version substitute half and half for heavy cream and use reduced fat cheese though the sauce may be slightly less thick. Those avoiding dairy can use coconut cream and dairy free cheese alternatives which create a different but equally delicious profile. Gluten sensitive diners will appreciate that this dish is naturally gluten free as written. For increased vegetables consider adding sautéed mushrooms bell peppers or spinach during the final simmering stage.

Recipe FAQs

→ What can I serve with this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet?

This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with many sides. Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta to soak up the delicious cheese sauce. For a lighter meal, pair with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or steamed broccoli. Garlic bread or dinner rolls make excellent accompaniments for dipping in the extra sauce.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs make an excellent substitute and often result in even juicier, more flavorful results. They're more forgiving if slightly overcooked and provide a richer flavor profile. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and follow the same cooking instructions.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat level, add more chili powder to your preference, include cayenne pepper (start with ¼ teaspoon), incorporate diced jalapeños with the onions, or add a dash of hot sauce to the finished dish. You could also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra kick throughout the sauce.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Cook as directed, then cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking.

→ What cheese alternatives work well in this dish?

While cheddar provides classic flavor, you can substitute with Monterey Jack for a milder taste, pepper jack for added spice, Colby for a similar profile to cheddar, or a blend of cheeses for complex flavor. For extra creaminess, Velveeta or American cheese melts beautifully. For a more upscale version, try Gruyère or fontina cheese.

→ How can I make this dish lower in calories?

To reduce calories, use light butter or less butter and sauté with a bit of olive oil. Substitute half and half or evaporated milk for heavy cream. Use reduced-fat cheese and increase the proportion of onions or add bell peppers and other vegetables. You can also serve over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a lower-carb option.