Description: Craving that Texas Roadhouse flavor without the wait or the crowds? Look no further! This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet recipe delivers a mouthwatering, buttery, cheesy, and slightly spicy chicken dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Imagine tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken, perfectly seasoned with a blend of savory spices, swimming in a rich and creamy butter sauce, and topped with a generous layer of melted cheddar cheese. It’s a quick, easy, and satisfying one-pan meal that the whole family will adore. This recipe captures the essence of that iconic Texas Roadhouse butter flavor, elevated with perfectly cooked chicken and a delightful cheesy finish. Prepare to be amazed by how simple ingredients can create such an unforgettable culinary experience. Get ready to ditch the takeout menu and embrace this homemade sensation!
Ingredients:
- 5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. Opt for chicken breasts that are of uniform thickness for even cooking. Cutting them into bite-sized pieces ensures they cook quickly and evenly.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter. Use high-quality unsalted butter for the richest flavor. The butter is crucial for creating that signature Texas Roadhouse buttery taste.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Garlic powder provides a convenient way to add a consistent garlic flavor throughout the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder. Onion powder complements the garlic powder and adds a subtle savory depth to the seasoning blend.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. Smoked paprika introduces a smoky element to the dish, mimicking the flavors often found in Texas Roadhouse recipes.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder. Chili powder adds a touch of warmth and a slightly spicy undertone, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat). For those who enjoy a spicier kick, cayenne pepper can be added to elevate the heat level of the dish. Adjust the amount to your personal preference.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Seasoning with salt and pepper is essential to bring out the flavors of all the other ingredients. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth. Chicken broth provides moisture and helps to create the creamy butter sauce. Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream. Heavy cream adds richness and a luxurious texture to the sauce. For a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less thick.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the finished dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil. Olive oil is used for sautéing the chicken and prevents the butter from burning.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Shredded cheddar cheese adds a cheesy, melty topping to the chicken skillet. You can use your favorite type of cheddar cheese, such as mild, medium, or sharp.
- Optional: sliced green onions for garnish. Sliced green onions add a mild onion flavor and a visual appeal to the dish.
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into uniform, bite-sized pieces. This will ensure they cook quickly and evenly in the skillet. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to help them brown properly.
Step 2: Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot and the butter is melted, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook the chicken until it is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet, as this will cause the chicken to steam instead of brown. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: Make the Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Once the butter is melted, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Use a whisk or spoon to combine the liquids and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These browned bits add flavor to the sauce. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has slightly thickened.
Step 5: Assemble and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it evenly with the butter sauce. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt completely, about 2 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and sliced green onions (if using). Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for so many reasons! First and foremost, it captures the irresistible flavor of Texas Roadhouse in a quick and easy skillet meal. You can enjoy that iconic buttery, savory taste without the hassle of going out to a restaurant.
The recipe is incredibly versatile and customizable. You can easily adjust the level of spice to your liking by adding more or less cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add other vegetables like bell peppers or onions for added flavor and nutrition.
This skillet meal is perfect for busy weeknights. It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a great option when you’re short on time but still want a delicious and satisfying dinner. The one-pan format also means less cleanup, which is always a bonus!
The combination of tender chicken, rich butter sauce, and melted cheddar cheese is simply irresistible. The dish is packed with flavor and texture, making it a truly enjoyable and satisfying meal. It’s also a great way to get your protein and calcium in a single serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve over rice: Cooked white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice are all great options for soaking up the delicious butter sauce.
- Serve with mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the chicken skillet.
- Serve with noodles: Toss the butter chicken with cooked egg noodles or pasta for a hearty and comforting meal.
- Serve with vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are all healthy and flavorful side dishes that complement the chicken skillet.
- Serve with biscuits or rolls: Warm, buttery biscuits or rolls are perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
- Serve with a side salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken skillet.
Tips:
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: When sautéing the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Cooking the chicken in batches will ensure that it browns properly.
- Use high-quality butter: Using high-quality unsalted butter will result in the best flavor for the butter sauce.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. If you like it spicier, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet, such as chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
- Use different types of cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or provolone.
- Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the butter chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the skillet or microwave before serving.
- Freeze it for later: Leftovers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
- Protein: Approximately 40 grams per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 500 mg per serving
Conclusion:
This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet recipe is a delicious and easy way to bring the flavors of your favorite restaurant into your own kitchen. With its tender chicken, rich butter sauce, and melted cheddar cheese, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family. It’s a versatile and customizable recipe that you can easily adapt to your own taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck, this butter chicken skillet is a perfect choice. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable culinary experience!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and stay moist during cooking. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces similar to the chicken breasts. The cooking time may be slightly longer, so check for doneness with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Q2: Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk for a lighter version. However, keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich and thick. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to the sauce while it simmers to help thicken it up.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to this skillet?
A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of the dish. Some good options include chopped bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, broccoli florets, or even spinach. Add the vegetables to the skillet along with the chicken broth and heavy cream, and let them simmer until they are tender.
Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the butter chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in the skillet or microwave until heated through. Add the cheese just before serving to prevent it from becoming rubbery.
Q5: What other toppings can I use besides parsley and green onions?
A: There are many other toppings you can use to add flavor and visual appeal to the dish. Some options include chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat, a drizzle of hot sauce, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess. You can also add crispy fried onions or toasted sesame seeds for texture.
