Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a delightful and creamy dish that combines succulent chunks of chicken with a rich, buttery sauce that’s bursting with flavor. This hearty meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering comfort and satisfaction that both kids and adults will love. With its easy, step-by-step recipe, you’ll find yourself coming back to this dish time and time again, creating lasting memories around the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet a must-try? First and foremost, the preparation is a breeze! With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time. The combination of tender chicken and creamy sauce makes it a comforting meal, perfect for busy weekdays or cozy family gatherings. It’s a real crowd-pleaser, and best of all, you likely have most of the ingredients in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into chunks
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tsp ground paprika
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Chopped green onions and parsley, for garnish
Imagine juicy, golden-brown chicken with a creamy, rich sauce that’s flecked with aromatic garlic and vibrant herbs. The smoky flavor of paprika and the freshness of lemon make every bite a fantastic experience. Adding spicy cayenne is optional, so you can tailor the dish to your preferences!
Step-by-Step Directions
Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts liberally with salt, black pepper, and ground paprika. This step builds the flavor foundation for the entire dish.Sear the Chicken
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken in batches. Sear for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and thoroughly cooked. Once done, set the chicken aside on a plate.Melt the Butter & Cook Garlic
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Allow it to melt and become bubbly. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.Add Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to incorporate all the flavors. This process enhances the dish’s depth.Stir in Cream & Seasonings
Next, stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using). Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.Return Chicken & Add Parmesan
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let the mixture simmer until the cheese melts and the sauce reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce.Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle chopped parsley and green onions on top for a fresh finish. Serve hot with your choice of sides, and enjoy the creamy goodness!
Tips & Tricks
- Searing in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the skillet while searing the chicken. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that delicious golden crust.
- Thickening Secret: If you’re looking for a super creamy sauce but don’t have cornstarch, simply let the sauce simmer on low heat for a bit longer until it thickens naturally.
- Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance flavor even more. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
The beauty of Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is its versatility. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it over fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a bed of sautéed spinach for a nutritious kick. For a complete meal, a side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish beautifully.
Nutritional Information
This recipe serves about four people, with each serving approximately containing:
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 46g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
While it’s indulgent, enjoy this dish in moderation as part of a well-balanced diet, incorporating plenty of vegetables and healthy grains.
Storing Tips & Variations
If you have leftover Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain that creamy texture.
Consider adding vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a different take on this dish. You can also swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a tasty variation that suits your dietary needs.
Conclusion
This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is a must-try! Not only is it easy to make, but it also brings comfort and joy to your dining table. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a shot; your taste buds will thank you! Once you try it, come back and share your experience in the comments below!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just ensure to thaw it completely before cooking for even seasoning and cooking.
2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cornstarch for thickness. However, it may alter the creaminess of the sauce.
3. How spicy is the dish with cayenne pepper?
Cayenne adds a mild to moderate heat. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference or skip it altogether for a milder dish.
4. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The flavors get even better as it sits together, making it a great option for meal prep. Just follow storing instructions for best results.
5. Can I add veggies to this dish?
Definitely! Options like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers work great. Just sauté them along with the garlic for added flavor and nutrition.
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
- 1/2 tsp black pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp cornstarch optional, for thickening
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Chopped green onions and parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts liberally with salt, black pepper, and ground paprika.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken in batches. Sear for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and thoroughly cooked. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Allow it to melt and bubble.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the browned bits from the skillet.
- Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using). Let simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and simmer until the cheese melts.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and green onions. Serve hot.