Best Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Copycat Recipe

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is not just a meal; it’s an experience, bringing the beloved flavors of a classic American steakhouse right into your kitchen with an unexpected, yet utterly delicious, twist. We all adore the legendary rolls and their sweet, cinnamon butter at Texas Roadhouse, don’t we? Imagine infusing that iconic, creamy goodness into a savory, tender chicken dish, all cooked conveniently in one pan. That’s the ingenious concept behind this incredible recipe.

This isn’t your traditional Indian butter chicken; instead, it’s a uniquely American interpretation, marrying the comforting richness of a creamy chicken skillet with hints of that signature sweet and savory butter profile. It’s a testament to creative home cooking, transforming simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary. People adore this dish because it’s the epitome of comfort food – tender chicken smothered in a luscious, savory, and subtly sweet sauce, all ready in a single skillet. It offers unparalleled convenience for busy weeknights without sacrificing an ounce of flavor. The rich, creamy texture and the surprising depth of taste make the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet an instant family favorite, perfect for anyone seeking a hearty, restaurant-quality meal without the fuss.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken & Marinade:
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces. I personally love using thighs here for their tenderness and flavor, but breasts work beautifully if you prefer.
  • 1/2 cup plain whole milk yogurt. This is key for tenderizing!
  • 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste (or 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger and 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic).
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder.
  • 1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder (for vibrant color without excessive heat, or regular chili powder if you prefer more spice).
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice.
• For the Rich Butter Chicken Skillet Sauce:
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided. Trust me, the butter is essential for that luxurious texture!
  • 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil (like vegetable or canola oil).
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped.
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (or 1/2 tablespoon grated fresh ginger and 1/2 tablespoon minced fresh garlic).
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder.
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder.
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder.
  • 1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder (or regular chili powder), adjust to your spice preference.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala.
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes or tomato purée. Diced tomatoes can also work if you prefer a chunkier sauce, but I find crushed or puréed gives a silkier finish.
  • 1/4 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for 15 minutes (optional, but highly recommended for creaminess and richness).
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a slightly lighter, but still rich, sauce).
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar or honey, to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
  • 1 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (Kasoori Methi), crushed between your palms. This spice adds an unmistakable, authentic butter chicken flavor, so try not to skip it!
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• For Garnish:
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped.

Preparing the Chicken & Marinade:

1. Prepare the Chicken: First things first, let’s get our chicken ready. If you’re using chicken thighs, trim any excess fat. For both thighs and breasts, cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces. This ensures that every piece cooks evenly and quickly, resulting in beautifully tender bites rather than some being overcooked and others undercooked. Uniformity is key here for a consistent texture.
2. Create the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, Kashmiri chili powder, garam masala, salt, and fresh lemon juice. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, vibrant orange paste. Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful color and the aromatic spices – this is where the magic truly begins!
3. Marinate the Chicken: Add your prepared chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring every single piece is thoroughly coated. Use your hands to really work the marinade into the chicken. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. However, for the absolute best flavor and most tender results, I highly recommend marinating for at least 2 hours, or even better, overnight (up to 24 hours). The longer the chicken soaks in this flavorful mixture, the more tender and infused with spice it will become, making a significant difference in the final dish. This step is non-negotiable for that authentic, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Crafting the Rich Butter Chicken Sauce Base:

4. Sauté the Aromatics: While your chicken is marinating, we’ll start on the magnificent sauce. In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven (I prefer a cast iron skillet for its even heat distribution and rustic appeal), melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter with 1 tablespoon of neutral cooking oil over medium heat. The oil helps prevent the butter from burning. Once the butter is melted and slightly foamy, add the finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté the onion gently, stirring frequently, for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes translucent and deeply softened. Do not rush this step! Soft, well-caramelized onions form the sweet and savory foundation of our sauce.
5. Infuse with Ginger & Garlic: Once the onions are soft and fragrant, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until incredibly aromatic. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell that distinctive, pungent blend of fresh ginger and garlic filling your kitchen. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
6. Bloom the Dry Spices: Now comes the glorious spice blend! Reduce the heat to low, then add the cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, Kashmiri chili powder, and garam masala to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 30-60 seconds, allowing the spices to “bloom” in the hot butter and oil. This brief cooking time brings out their essential oils and deepens their flavor, making them far more aromatic than if added directly to liquid. Your kitchen will now smell absolutely incredible!
7. Incorporate Tomatoes & Cashews: Pour in the 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes or tomato purée. If you opted for the raw cashews, drain them and add them to the skillet now. Stir everything together well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for at least 15-20 minutes. This simmering time is crucial; it allows the raw taste of the tomatoes to cook out, melds all the flavors together, and softens the cashews even further. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll notice the sauce deepening in color and thickening slightly.
8. Achieve Velvety Smoothness: After simmering, remove the skillet from the heat. Carefully transfer the hot sauce mixture (including the softened cashews) to a blender. Work in batches if your blender is small, and always ensure the lid is properly vented for hot liquids to prevent pressure buildup. Blend on high speed until the sauce is completely smooth and velvety. This step creates the characteristic creamy texture of butter chicken sauce. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender directly in the skillet for less cleanup, blending until no cashew pieces or onion chunks remain. Once blended, pour the smooth sauce back into the skillet.

Searing the Marinated Chicken:

9. Sear the Chicken: While your sauce is resting or being blended, it’s time to cook the chicken. Wipe out the skillet you used for the sauce (if you transferred the sauce to a blender) or use a separate large skillet. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet and melt it over medium-high heat. Once the butter is hot and shimmering, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in two or three batches to ensure proper browning. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of searing it, preventing that delicious golden-brown crust.
10. Brown for Flavor: Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust and is cooked through. The browning adds an incredible depth of flavor (the Maillard reaction at its best!) that you simply cannot achieve by just simmering the chicken directly in the sauce. The yogurt in the marinade also helps achieve a lovely tender crust. Once cooked, transfer the seared chicken pieces to a clean plate and set aside. Don’t worry if they’re not cooked 100% through at this stage; they will finish cooking in the sauce.

Bringing It All Together: The Skillet Finale:

11. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the smooth butter chicken sauce to the skillet (if you blended it separately). Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Add the seared chicken pieces back into the simmering sauce, ensuring they are well coated. Stir gently to combine.
12. Simmer and Infuse: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 10-15 minutes. This allows the chicken to fully cook through, absorb all the incredible flavors of the sauce, and become incredibly tender. The flavors will deepen and meld beautifully during this crucial simmering period. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
13. Add Cream & Kasoori Methi: After the simmering time, remove the lid. Pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and stir gently. Now, take your dried fenugreek leaves (Kasoori Methi) and crush them between your palms directly over the skillet. This releases their unique, slightly bitter, yet aromatic fragrance that is so characteristic of authentic butter chicken. Stir it in thoroughly.
14. Final Adjustments: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. This is your chance to make it perfect!
    • Does it need more salt?
    • A pinch more sugar to balance the tang?
    • Perhaps a dash more garam masala for an extra layer of warmth?
    • If the sauce is too thick for your liking, you can add a tablespoon or two of hot water or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce slightly.

    Once you’re happy with the taste and consistency, turn off the heat. The final consistency should be rich, creamy, and able to coat the back of a spoon beautifully.

Serving Suggestions & Pro Tips:

15. Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle generously with freshly chopped cilantro. This adds a burst of freshness and a vibrant green contrast to the rich, orange sauce.

    Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Serving Ideas:

    This “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet” is designed to be a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for sharing right from the skillet. For a truly satisfying experience, I love serving it with:

    • Warm Naan Bread: Essential for scooping up every last bit of that luscious sauce. Garlic naan is an especially divine pairing.
    • Steamed Basmati Rice: Its fragrant, fluffy grains are the ideal canvas for the rich sauce.
    • A Simple Cucumber Raita: A cool, refreshing yogurt-based side helps cut through the richness.
    • Roasted Vegetables: For an added touch of freshness and nutrition, consider serving with a side of lightly roasted broccoli or green beans.
16. Storage and Reheating: Leftovers are absolutely fantastic, and sometimes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store any remaining “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet” in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also microwave it, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
17. Pro Tip for Flavor Depth: If you really want to elevate the smoky flavor, after removing the chicken from the pan in step 10, deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth or water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add this flavorful liquid to your sauce when you add the tomatoes. This will capture all those delicious caramelized flavors.
18. Spice Level Customization: Remember, the spice levels are entirely adjustable. If you love heat, feel free to increase the amount of Kashmiri chili powder, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. If you prefer it milder, reduce the chili powder. Always taste and adjust as you go!

Conclusion:

As we wrap up our culinary adventure, I truly hope you’re as excited as I am about this incredible recipe. What makes this dish an absolute game-changer in your kitchen? It’s the perfect harmony of comfort and elegance, delivering a rich, creamy, and deeply flavorful experience that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. We’ve taken inspiration from a beloved classic and infused it with our own touch, creating something truly special. This isn’t just another dinner; it’s an invitation to create a memorable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to transform simple ingredients into a gourmet-level feast with surprisingly little effort. Every spoonful is a testament to the magic that happens when savory chicken meets a velvety, spiced sauce, all coming together in one perfect skillet.

I find that one of the greatest joys of cooking is seeing the delight on the faces of those you share your creations with, and I promise you, this recipe will deliver precisely that. It’s hearty enough to satisfy the most robust appetites, yet refined enough for a special occasion. Imagine the aroma filling your home – that warm, inviting fragrance that signals a truly spectacular meal is on its way. That’s what this dish brings to your table. It’s a testament to the power of a well-crafted sauce, clinging to tender pieces of chicken, ready to be scooped up with your favorite accompaniments. Trust me when I say, once you try this, it’s going to become a staple in your rotation. It’s got that undeniable comfort food quality, elevated by layers of nuanced flavor that keep you coming back for more.

Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations to Elevate Your Meal

Now, let’s talk about how to best enjoy this masterpiece and how you can make it uniquely your own. My go-to pairing for this creamy delight is always a generous serving of fluffy basmati rice. The delicate grains are perfect for soaking up every last drop of that luscious sauce, ensuring no flavor goes to waste. If you’re looking for something a little different, warm, buttery naan bread is an absolute dream, ideal for scooping and dipping. Alternatively, a side of garlic mashed potatoes would also be an incredibly comforting choice, creating a wonderfully rich and satisfying meal. For a lighter touch, consider pairing it with a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skillet. Or, for an extra boost of nutrition, steamed green beans or roasted asparagus make fantastic companions.

Feeling creative? The possibilities for variations are truly endless! If you prefer a leaner protein, chicken breast works beautifully, just be mindful not to overcook it to maintain tenderness. For those who adore a bit more spice, don’t hesitate to add an extra pinch of red chili flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño right before serving to really kick things up a notch. On the flip side, if you’re serving younger palates or prefer a milder flavor, you can always reduce the amount of chili. You could also experiment with adding different vegetables – perhaps some sautéed bell peppers for a vibrant pop of color and sweetness, or a handful of fresh spinach wilted into the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. For an even richer, slightly tangier finish, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a swirl of heavy cream stirred in at the very end can add another layer of decadence. And don’t forget the garnishes! Fresh cilantro, a sprinkle of toasted slivered almonds, or even a drizzle of homemade chili oil can elevate the presentation and add an extra burst of flavor and texture. This recipe truly is a canvas for your culinary imagination, inviting you to play and personalize until it’s perfect for your taste buds.

Your Culinary Journey Starts Now!

So, what are you waiting for? This is your sign to grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and dive headfirst into creating this unforgettable dish. I promise you, the aroma alone will be enough to convince you that you’ve made the right choice. There’s something incredibly rewarding about serving up a homemade meal that rivals your favorite restaurant dish, and this Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet achieves just that. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an experience, a moment of culinary triumph waiting to happen in your kitchen. I am genuinely excited for you to try it, to taste the layers of flavor, and to enjoy the sheer comfort it brings. Once you’ve cooked it, once you’ve savored every mouthful, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience!

Did you stick to the recipe, or did you add your own creative twist? What did your family and friends think? Did you find a new favorite side dish to pair it with? Please, don’t be shy! Share your stories, your photos, and your feedback in the comments below. Your insights and adventures inspire me and our entire cooking community. Let’s build a collection of shared culinary successes, one delicious skillet at a time. Happy cooking, my friends, and I can’t wait to see what you create!

Best Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Copycat Recipe

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is not just a meal; it’s an experience, bringing the beloved flavors of a classic American steakhouse right into your kitchen with an unexpected, yet utterly delicious, twist. This uniquely American interpretation marries the comforting richness of a creamy chicken skillet with hints of Texas Roadhouse’s signature sweet and savory butter profile. It’s comfort food – tender chicken smothered in a luscious, savory, and subtly sweet sauce, all ready in a single skillet, perfect for busy weeknights.

Prep Time
45 Minutes

Cook Time
60 Minutes

Total Time
45 Minutes

Servings
6 servings

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup plain whole milk yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste (for marinade)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder (for marinade)
• 1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder (for marinade)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala (for marinade)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (for marinade)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (for sauce)
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (for sauce)
• 1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder (for sauce)
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala (for sauce)
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes or tomato purée
• 1/4 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for 15 minutes (optional)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar or honey
• 1 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (Kasoori Methi), crushed
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces. In a bowl, combine yogurt, 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp Kashmiri chili powder, 1 tsp garam masala, 1/2 tsp salt, and lemon juice. Add chicken, coat, and marinate for at least 30 mins (up to 24 hours) in the fridge.
2. Step 2
   In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter with oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped yellow onion for 8-10 mins until translucent. Add 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste; cook 1-2 mins until aromatic.
3. Step 3
   Reduce heat to low. Add cumin, coriander, 1/2 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp Kashmiri chili powder, and 1/2 tsp garam masala; stir 30-60 secs. Pour in crushed tomatoes. If using, add drained cashews. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 mins, stirring occasionally.
4. Step 4
   Remove sauce from heat. Carefully transfer hot sauce mixture to a blender (vent lid for hot liquids) and blend until completely smooth and velvety. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the skillet. Pour smooth sauce back into the skillet.
5. Step 5
   Wipe the skillet clean or use a separate one. Melt remaining 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Sear marinated chicken pieces in a single layer (in batches if needed) for 3-4 mins per side until golden-brown. Transfer seared chicken to a plate.
6. Step 6
   Return smooth butter chicken sauce to the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Add seared chicken pieces to the sauce, ensuring they are well coated. Stir gently.
7. Step 7
   Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for another 10-15 minutes to fully cook the chicken and meld flavors. Remove lid, pour in heavy cream, and stir. Crush dried fenugreek leaves (Kasoori Methi) between palms over the skillet and stir in thoroughly.
8. Step 8
   Taste sauce and adjust seasonings (salt, sugar, garam masala) as needed. Garnish generously with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot with warm naan bread, steamed basmati rice, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.