
Juicy chicken bites coated in savory garlic butter make this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet a go-to for busy nights or special gatherings. You get that rich restaurant flavor at home with just a few easy steps making it perfect when you want something hearty but do not want to fuss with lots of ingredients or complicated prep.
I first whipped this up for a last minute dinner with friends and was amazed at how quickly it disappeared. Now it is one of those recipes everyone asks for.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Tender juicy chicken is key to the dish using dark or white meat works well
- Unsalted butter: The star ingredient rich flavor and silkiness avoid salted butter to control seasoning
- Olive oil: Helps brown the chicken without burning the butter choose a good quality extra virgin for best taste
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings the sauce to life pre-chopped jars just do not have the same punch
- Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth go for a bright red variety for freshness
- Black pepper: Balances the butteriness and adds just enough heat freshly cracked if possible
- Salt: Enhances everything use kosher or sea salt for cleaner seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Brings color and a bright herbal finish pick bunches with vibrant green leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Cut and season:
- Cut chicken into bite-sized chunks and pat dry very well with paper towels this helps browning Season generously all over with salt black pepper and paprika for maximum coverage
- Brown the Chicken Sauté in skillet:
- Place a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat Add olive oil and half the butter wait until the butter foam subsides then add chicken in a single layer Try not to crowd the pan Let each side brown deeply about five to seven minutes turning only as needed Remove chicken once golden and cooked through Transfer to a plate and keep warm
- Make the Garlic Butter Base Sauté garlic:
- In the same skillet reduce heat to medium Add remaining butter once melted sprinkle in minced garlic Stir and watch carefully until garlic turns just golden and fragrant about one minute Do not let it burn as this will make the sauce bitter
- Coat the Chicken Combine and simmer:
- Return golden chicken to the skillet with the garlic butter Toss thoroughly to coat every piece Let simmer together two to three minutes so the sauce glazes the chicken and flavors meld
- Finish and Serve Garnish and enjoy:
- Sprinkle over freshly chopped parsley right before serving It adds color and a lift Serve straight from the skillet with your favorite sides while piping hot

The butter is what wins me over every time It makes everything rich and comforting My kids once argued over the last spoonful of the garlicy sauce and now we double the recipe just for extra I love watching the parsley touch add that pop of green at the end
Storage Tips
Cool any leftovers quickly and transfer to an airtight container Keep in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently over low heat on the stove for best results adding a tiny splash of water if the sauce seems thick Avoid the microwave if you can since the butter sauce can separate
Ingredient Substitutions
Boneless thighs can be swapped for breasts depending what you have on hand For a dairy-free version try a good plant-based butter Garlic powder works in a pinch if you cannot find fresh but fresh always delivers better taste No parsley Try chives or cilantro
Serving Suggestions
This skillet shines over creamy mashed potatoes fluffy white rice or buttered noodles For a lighter option serve with a crisp green salad and lemon wedges Crusty bread for sopping up the sauce is always a good idea

Recipe FAQs
- → How do you ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and avoid overcooking—remove from the skillet once golden and thoroughly cooked.
- → What type of chicken works best?
Both boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces work well for this skillet dish.
- → Can extra ingredients be added?
Absolutely! Try adding a squeeze of lemon, a handful of spinach, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for variety.
- → Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated and quickly reheated in a skillet for a tasty next-day meal.
- → What can be served with this chicken?
Pair with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice, or crusty bread to complete your meal.