Description
If you’re craving a bold and comforting dish that combines creamy richness with smoky depth, this Butter Chicken Skillet Texas Roadhouse Style is exactly what you need. Packed with juicy chicken thighs simmered in a spiced butter-tomato cream sauce, this dish blends Indian-inspired comfort with that Texas-style punch. Perfect for weeknights, easy dinners, or indulgent food ideas, it’s one of those quick dinners that tastes like a slow-cooked masterpiece. From breakfast ideas turned savory to healthy snack leftovers, this easy recipe gives you everything in one skillet.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
3 tbsp unsalted butter
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1 cup tomato sauce
0.75 cup heavy cream
1.5 tsp garam masala
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
0.5 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized chunks. Pat them dry.
2. Optional: Marinate chicken in yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, and salt for 30 minutes.
3. Heat 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken in batches until golden. Set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
5. Stir in garlic and ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Add garam masala, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Stir and toast spices for 30 seconds.
7. Pour in tomato sauce. Stir well and simmer for 5–7 minutes to thicken slightly.
8. Reduce heat. Stir in heavy cream and remaining butter until smooth and creamy.
9. Return seared chicken to the skillet. Simmer on low for 10–12 minutes until fully cooked.
10. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with naan, rice, or your favorite side.
Notes
Let the sauce rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle and thicken.
For a smokier kick, add a drop of liquid smoke or grill the chicken before simmering.
Always use fresh garlic and ginger for maximum flavor in the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: easy dinner, skillet recipe, butter chicken, smoky chicken, Texas fusion, quick dinner, spicy chicken