Texas Roadhouse-Style Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet

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I’ve made this skillet dish more times than I can count, and every single time, it’s an instant hit. There’s something so deeply comforting and satisfying about tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. It’s simple, hearty, and full of flavor—exactly the kind of food that makes you pause and say, “Wow, this is really good.” That’s why I had to share this Texas Roadhouse-style garlic butter chicken skillet with you.

The balance of buttery richness and punchy garlic, rounded out with just a hint of spice, is everything you want in a skillet meal. It’s fast enough for a weeknight dinner, but it doesn’t taste rushed. This recipe feels like it came straight out of a cozy Southern kitchen—and it’ll warm your kitchen (and heart) in all the best ways.

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Why You’ll Love This Texas Roadhouse-Style Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet

• Quick and easy: From stove to table in about 30 minutes.
• Incredibly flavorful: Garlic, butter, and paprika create magic.
• Minimal cleanup: All made in one skillet.
• Versatile: Perfect over rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or even tucked into wraps.
• Crowd-pleaser: Family-approved and picky-eater friendly.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For the best results in this Texas Roadhouse-Style Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stay juicy, tender, and absorb the buttery garlic sauce beautifully. However, if you’re more into lean cuts, chicken breasts are a great option too—just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more quickly.

You can also use pre-cut chicken tenders for an even quicker prep. The key is to cut your chicken into bite-sized chunks so they cook evenly and get beautifully coated with the sauce.

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Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re working with what you have on hand or want to tweak the flavors, here are some easy substitutions:

• Butter Substitute: Swap out unsalted butter for ghee or olive oil if you’re dairy-free.
• Garlic: Fresh is best, but you can use 1 tsp of garlic powder per clove in a pinch.
• Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deeper, BBQ-like flavor. Cayenne can give it a spicy kick.
• Parsley: No fresh herbs? Dried parsley or even a sprinkle of Italian seasoning will work.
• Protein Swap: Try this recipe with shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
• Low Sodium: Use a low-sodium butter and season lightly if you’re watching salt intake.
• Add Veggies: Sauté some mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers with the chicken for extra nutrition.

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Ingredients for This Texas Roadhouse-Style Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet

Every ingredient in this dish plays a special role, coming together to create a comforting and flavor-packed meal.

• Chicken (thighs or breasts): The star of the dish—tender, juicy chunks of chicken that soak up the buttery, garlicky goodness.
• Unsalted butter: The base of the sauce, giving richness and depth. Using unsalted allows you to better control the seasoning.
• Garlic (minced): Essential for that punchy, savory aroma and flavor. Freshly minced garlic brings out the best results.
• Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and enhances the color of the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Simple, but necessary to elevate and balance the flavors.
• Chopped parsley: A fresh finish that adds brightness and a pop of color to the final dish.
• Olive oil (optional): Sometimes used to sear the chicken for a golden crust before adding the butter.

That’s all it takes—minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized chunks. Pat them dry with paper towels—this helps them brown better in the skillet. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Let them sit while you prep the garlic and parsley.

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Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil (if using), then toss in the chicken pieces. Sear them for 4–5 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the pan and let it melt completely. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute—just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.

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Step 4: Toss and Simmer

Return all the chicken to the skillet if you cooked it in batches. Stir well to coat every piece with the garlic butter. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes so the flavors can meld together and the sauce thickens slightly.

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Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve immediately while hot and juicy, spooning some of that buttery sauce over each portion.

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How Long to Cook the Texas Roadhouse-Style Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet

From prep to plate, this dish comes together in about 25 to 30 minutes.

• Searing the chicken: Takes about 8–10 minutes total (4–5 minutes per side), depending on the size of the pieces and the heat of your skillet.
• Garlic butter sauce: Needs only 1 minute for the garlic to bloom and another 2–3 minutes of simmering with the chicken.

You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is golden on the outside, fully cooked inside (165°F internal temp), and coated in that rich, silky sauce.

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Tips for Perfect Texas Roadhouse-Style Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet

• Cut chicken evenly: Try to keep all pieces around the same size for even cooking.
• Dry the chicken before searing: Moisture will cause steaming, not browning. Pat it dry for a crispier finish.
• Don’t burn the garlic: Add it after reducing the heat, and only cook it briefly to avoid bitterness.
• Use a large enough skillet: Crowding the pan can make the chicken soggy—give it space to sear.
• Fresh parsley matters: It adds a final bright note that cuts through the richness of the butter.
• Deglaze if needed: If bits are stuck to the pan, a splash of chicken broth or water will lift them into the sauce.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and add a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon if it needs a lift.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple skillet dish like this can trip you up if you’re not careful. Here are a few common missteps to avoid:

• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken breasts, in particular, can dry out quickly. Pull them off the heat as soon as they hit 165°F.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic turns bitter fast if it gets too dark. Cook it gently in butter, not in blazing-hot oil.
• Skipping the sear: Browning adds huge flavor. Don’t just steam your chicken—get that crust!
• Using too much butter: Yes, I said it! The butter makes the dish, but drowning it can leave your skillet greasy. Stick to the measured amount.
• Crowding the pan: This causes the chicken to steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if needed.
• Underseasoning: Salt and pepper might be basic, but they’re essential to enhancing the richness of the garlic butter.
• Not resting the chicken: Give it a minute off the heat before serving—it helps the juices settle in.
• Ignoring garnish: That parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a pop of freshness that balances the richness of the dish.

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What to Serve With Texas Roadhouse-Style Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet?

Pairing this rich, buttery chicken with the right side dishes can turn it into a complete, crave-worthy meal. Here are my top suggestions:

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes soak up all the garlic butter sauce like a dream.

Buttered Rice

Light and fluffy, rice provides a neutral base that balances the richness of the chicken.

Toasted Garlic Bread

Extra garlic? Yes, please. Great for scooping up leftover sauce.

Steamed Broccoli

Adds a fresh, crunchy contrast—and a healthy green touch to the plate.

Caesar Salad

The bold dressing and crisp romaine offer a nice counterbalance to the buttery chicken.

Buttered Egg Noodles

Quick, simple, and perfect for twirling in the skillet’s sauce.

Mac and Cheese

For full-on comfort food vibes, this duo is unbeatable.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Sweet, slightly smoky corn pairs well with the savory garlic notes.

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Storage Instructions

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this dish stores like a dream. Here’s how to keep it tasting fresh:

• Refrigerator: Let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze it for longer storage—just note that the texture may slightly change. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.

Avoid reheating it on high heat, which can dry out the chicken and separate the butter sauce.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Note: These values are approximate and based on standard ingredient amounts.

• Calories: 380–420 kcal
• Protein: 30–35g
• Fat: 25g (with about 12g saturated fat)
• Carbohydrates: 2–4g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: ~300–400mg (depending on added salt and butter used)

This meal is low-carb and high-protein, making it ideal for those looking for a hearty, satisfying dish without all the starch.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to tell if my chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer! The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should also run clear when the chicken is cut.

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Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the chicken and sauce a day in advance. Reheat gently on the stovetop and add fresh parsley just before serving.

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Can I use pre-minced garlic from a jar?

You can, but fresh garlic really makes a difference in this recipe. If you must use jarred garlic, use about 1½ teaspoons per clove.

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What if I don’t have paprika?

No worries—you can skip it or replace it with a dash of cayenne for heat or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.

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How do I keep the chicken juicy?

Avoid overcooking and sear it at medium-high heat for a golden crust while sealing in the moisture. Let it rest briefly before serving.

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Can I add vegetables to this skillet?

Definitely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini all sauté well alongside the chicken.

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Is this recipe spicy?

Nope! It’s flavorful but not spicy. If you want heat, add red pepper flakes or cayenne to taste.

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Can I double the recipe?

Yes—and it’s great for meal prep. Just be sure to cook the chicken in batches so it browns instead of steaming.

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Conclusion

This Texas Roadhouse-Style Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet brings bold flavor and comfort straight to your dinner table with minimal effort. It’s one of those recipes you’ll want to keep in your back pocket—not just for how good it tastes, but for how quick, reliable, and customizable it is.

Whether you’re serving it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or tucking it into wraps for lunch the next day, this dish delivers every single time. Warm, garlicky, buttery, and satisfying—it’s the kind of skillet meal that turns weeknights into something special.

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