This skillet-style butter chicken is all about bold, comforting flavors and quick preparation. Tender chicken bites are seared until golden, then coated in a rich garlic butter sauce with a touch of sweetness and brightness. It is a simple yet indulgent meal that feels like a restaurant-style dinner made right at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The chicken stays juicy thanks to quick high-heat searing, while the butter sauce adds deep, savory flavor with minimal ingredients. It pairs beautifully with many sides and is easy to customize to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
In a medium bowl, season the chicken cubes with paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, tossing until evenly coated.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet and allow it to melt completely. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Add the honey, soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let the sauce gently simmer for 1 minute.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss until all pieces are well coated in the butter sauce. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the chicken is glossy and heated through.
Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 servings.
Prep time is approximately 10 minutes.
Cook time is approximately 15 minutes.
Total time is about 25 minutes.
Variations
For a spicy version, add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
For a creamy twist, stir in 2 tablespoons of cooking cream at the end.
For extra herbs, add fresh thyme or rosemary along with the parsley.
For a citrus-forward flavor, increase the lemon juice to 1 1/2 tablespoons.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a small splash of water or butter to loosen the sauce.
You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness. Cooking time may increase slightly.
Is this recipe very sweet?
The honey adds mild sweetness that balances the garlic and butter, but it is not overly sweet.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It is best served fresh, but you can cook it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
What sides go best with butter chicken skillet?
Mashed potatoes, rice, flatbread, or steamed vegetables all pair well with the sauce.
Can I reduce the butter?
You can reduce the butter to 3 tablespoons, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
Is soy sauce necessary?
Soy sauce adds depth and saltiness, but Worcestershire sauce is a good alternative.
How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should be opaque throughout and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended, as the butter sauce may separate when thawed.
Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans can be sautéed after the chicken is removed, then combined at the end.
Does this recipe work with a nonstick pan?
Yes, a nonstick skillet works well, though a heavy-bottomed pan gives better browning.
Conclusion
This Texas Roadhouse–style butter chicken skillet delivers big flavor with minimal effort. With juicy chicken, a rich garlic butter sauce, and endless serving options, it is a reliable go-to recipe for both casual dinners and special meals at home.
This Texas Roadhouse-style Butter Chicken Skillet is a quick and flavorful dish featuring juicy seared chicken tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a touch of sweetness and brightness. It’s easy, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Season the chicken with paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Toss to coat evenly.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer (in batches if needed) and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet and let it melt. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add honey, soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Stir and simmer for 1 minute.
Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for 1–2 more minutes until heated through and glossy.
Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
Add chili flakes or cayenne for heat.
Stir in cooking cream at the end for a creamy version.
Increase lemon juice for more citrus brightness.
Use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or flatbread for a complete meal.
