Name: Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet: Easy Copycat
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch pieces; ½ cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated or minced (for marinade); 1 tbsp fresh garlic, grated or minced (for marinade); 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp ground turmeric (for marinade); 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder (or paprika + pinch cayenne); 1 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp salt (for marinade); ¼ cup unsalted butter, divided; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 large yellow onion, finely diced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated or minced (for sauce); 1 tbsp fresh garlic, grated or minced (for sauce); 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; ½ tsp ground turmeric (for sauce); ½ tsp Kashmiri red chili powder (or paprika); ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes; ½ cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for at least 30 mins; ½ cup water (for blending cashews and sauce base); ½ cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk); 1 tbsp granulated sugar or honey; 1 tsp dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi), lightly crushed; Salt to taste; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); A swirl of extra heavy cream or yogurt (optional, for garnish); Steamed basmati rice (for serving)

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet – just the name evokes images of a warm, comforting meal that’s both familiar and incredibly satisfying. Today, I am thrilled to guide you through recreating a dish that has become a true fan favorite, allowing you to bring that iconic restaurant experience directly into your own kitchen. Imagine tender, succulent chicken pieces, bathed in a rich, velvety, and perfectly spiced sauce, all cooked to perfection in a single skillet. Yes, achieving that legendary flavor at home is not only possible but surprisingly straightforward!

While the traditional Butter Chicken has deep, vibrant roots in Indian cuisine, the Texas Roadhouse version offers a unique, comforting adaptation that has truly captivated the American palate. It stands as a delicious example of how beloved culinary concepts can be reinterpreted, creating a new classic that’s celebrated for its approachability and hearty appeal. People absolutely adore this dish for its incredible depth of flavor – a harmonious blend of savory and subtly sweet notes, a lusciously creamy texture, and the sheer convenience of a delicious one-pan meal. Our homemade “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet” recipe is designed to deliver all that beloved taste and comfort, making it an ideal choice for a special family dinner or a delightful weeknight treat.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated or finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, grated or finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (or paprika for less heat, plus a pinch of cayenne)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Silky Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated or finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, grated or finely minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (or paprika)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (good quality is key!)
- 1/2 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for at least 30 minutes (or overnight)
- 1/2 cup water (for blending cashews and sauce base)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar or honey (to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi), lightly crushed between your palms
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- A swirl of extra heavy cream or yogurt (optional)
For Serving (Optional but Recommended):
- Steamed basmati rice
- Warm naan bread or crusty bread

Equipment You’ll Need:

Large mixing bowl
Sharp knife and cutting board
Large, heavy-bottomed skillet (a 10-12 inch cast iron skillet is ideal for that authentic “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet” feel)
Blender or immersion blender
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula or wooden spoon

Preparing Your “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet”

Phase 1: Prepping the Chicken and Marinade

Prepare the Chicken: First things first, let’s get our chicken ready. Take your boneless, skinless chicken thighs and cut them into uniform 1.5-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes them easier to eat. Pat the chicken pieces thoroughly dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving a good sear later on, which adds depth of flavor to our “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.”
Create the Marinade Paste: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated ginger, grated garlic, lemon juice, ground turmeric, Kashmiri red chili powder, garam masala, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix everything together until you have a thick, aromatic paste. The yogurt not only tenderizes the chicken but also helps the spices adhere beautifully.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the dried chicken pieces to the marinade in the bowl. Use your hands (or a spoon, but hands are better for coating!) to really massage the marinade into every piece of chicken. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated.
Rest and Infuse: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor and tenderness, I highly recommend marinating for 2-4 hours, or even overnight if you have the time. This step allows the chicken to absorb all those wonderful spices and flavors, making your “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet” truly stand out.
Safety First: Remember to always wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw chicken, and ensure your cutting board and utensils are cleaned or designated for raw meat.

Phase 2: Crafting the Silky Butter Sauce

Sauté the Aromatics: While your chicken is marinating, we can get started on our incredible butter sauce. In your large, heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably cast iron for that perfect “Texas Roadhouse” vibe), melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter is shimmering, add the finely diced yellow onion. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes beautifully translucent and softened, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Don’t rush this step; properly softened onions are key to a smooth sauce base.
Add Ginger and Garlic: Now, add the remaining grated ginger and garlic to the skillet with the onions. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until they become incredibly fragrant. Be careful not to let them brown too much, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. The kitchen will start smelling absolutely divine at this point!
Bloom the Spices: Reduce the heat to low. Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, Kashmiri red chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir constantly for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. This process, known as “blooming” the spices, gently toasts them in the hot oil and butter, intensifying their flavors and aromas. This is a critical step for a rich, complex sauce.
Introduce the Tomatoes and Cashews: Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Drain your pre-soaked raw cashews and add them to the skillet as well. Stir everything together thoroughly. The cashews will contribute a lovely creaminess and thickness to our sauce, giving it that luxurious restaurant-quality texture.
Simmer the Sauce Base: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the tomatoes to cook down, lose their raw edge, and meld with all the amazing spices. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Blend for Silkiness: Carefully remove the skillet from the heat. Allow the sauce base to cool slightly, especially if you’re using a standard blender. Transfer the entire contents of the skillet to a blender. Add 1/2 cup of fresh water. Blend until the sauce is incredibly smooth and creamy, with no visible chunks of onion or cashews. This might take a few minutes of blending. Patience here pays off! A truly smooth sauce is the hallmark of a fantastic butter chicken. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender directly in the skillet for convenience, ensuring you blend thoroughly.
Clean or Set Aside: If you plan to cook the chicken in the same skillet, quickly rinse it out. Otherwise, set your beautifully blended sauce aside.

Phase 3: Bringing It All Together in the Skillet

Sear the Marinated Chicken: Return your cleaned skillet to medium-high heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the marinated chicken pieces to the hot skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. You might need to do this in two batches to ensure proper searing. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until the chicken is beautifully browned and slightly charred in places. It doesn’t need to be cooked through at this point; we’re just building flavor and texture. That golden-brown crust adds incredible depth to the “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet.”
Remove Chicken: Once all the chicken is seared, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. It will finish cooking in the sauce.
Return Sauce to Skillet: If there are any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet (which there likely will be – that’s flavor!), you can deglaze with a splash of water or chicken broth, scraping them up. Then, pour the blended, silky butter sauce back into the skillet. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
Enrich the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk), granulated sugar (or honey), and the crushed dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi). Kasuri methi is often considered the secret ingredient in authentic butter chicken, imparting a unique, slightly bitter, and aromatic flavor that is irreplaceable. Stir well to combine.
Introduce the Chicken to the Sauce: Gently add the seared chicken pieces back into the simmering sauce. Stir to ensure all the chicken is submerged and coated.
Simmer and Finish: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet” simmer for another 15-20 minutes. This allows the chicken to finish cooking through, become incredibly tender, and truly absorb all the magnificent flavors of the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom.
Adjust Seasoning: After simmering, taste the sauce. This is your moment to shine! Adjust the salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. If it tastes too tangy, a little more sugar can balance it. If you want more spice, a pinch of cayenne. If it’s too thick, a splash of water or broth will thin it. The perfect “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet” is all about balanced flavors. The sauce should be rich, creamy, and cling beautifully to the chicken.

Phase 4: Serving Suggestions for Your Skillet Dish

Garnish and Serve: Once your “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet” is perfectly cooked and seasoned, remove it from the heat. Generously sprinkle with fresh, chopped cilantro. If you wish, swirl a little extra heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top just before serving for an extra touch of richness and visual appeal.
The Texas Roadhouse Experience: For the ultimate experience, serve this dish directly from the cast iron skillet it was cooked in – that’s the “Texas Roadhouse” way! The skillet keeps the dish warm and adds to the rustic, comforting presentation.
Accompaniments: This dish is heavenly served with fluffy basmati rice, which soaks up all that glorious sauce. Warm naan bread is also an absolute must for scooping up every last drop. For a truly hearty, American-inspired twist, consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or even a side of sweet cornbread. The contrast of the rich, spiced chicken with these comforting sides is simply incredible.
Storage and Reheating: Leftovers of your “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet” can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. This dish often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld!
Make it Your Own: Don’t be afraid to experiment! You could add some green bell peppers or peas during the final simmer for a touch of vegetable goodness. If you prefer a smokier flavor, a tiny pinch of smoked paprika could be added with the other spices. This recipe is a fantastic base for creativity. Enjoy crafting and savoring your very own homemade “Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet”!

Conclusion:

If there’s one recipe I genuinely hope you’ll add to your regular rotation, it’s this one. I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this dish, and I can confidently say that the rich, creamy, and incredibly flavorful experience of the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is truly unparalleled when made right in your own kitchen. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a culinary journey that brings together the comforting familiarity of home-cooked food with the exciting, robust flavors you’d expect from your favorite restaurant. The tender, succulent pieces of chicken, bathed in that velvety, perfectly spiced sauce, offer a warmth and depth that will satisfy your soul and delight your taste buds. This isn’t a recipe that just fills you up; it’s one that creates memories, ignites conversation, and leaves a lasting impression. I promise you, the aroma alone as it simmers on your stove will be enough to get everyone in the household eagerly anticipating dinner. It’s surprisingly simple to achieve such complex flavors, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners when you crave something special without a lot of fuss, and for those occasions when you want to impress guests with minimal stress. This skillet is a testament to how humble ingredients can transform into something truly extraordinary with just a little love and the right technique.

Now, while the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is absolutely spectacular on its own, I’ve found that the right accompaniments can elevate the entire dining experience. My go-to serving suggestion is always a generous bed of fluffy basmati rice. Its delicate fragrance and ability to absorb every drop of that luscious sauce make it the perfect canvas for this dish. Alternatively, for those who prefer something with a bit more chew, a rustic jasmine rice or even a whole grain option like brown rice would be fantastic. But let’s not forget about the bread! A warm piece of naan, ideally brushed with a little garlic butter, is essential for scooping up every last bit of that incredible sauce. If naan isn’t readily available, a crusty baguette or even some homemade garlic bread would be an equally delightful choice. For a lighter touch, a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness beautifully, offering a refreshing contrast. And for those who enjoy a vegetable boost, a side of steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or even some sautéed spinach stirred in at the very end can add both nutrition and vibrant color to your plate. Don’t hesitate to explore these options; each one brings its own unique contribution to the overall symphony of flavors and textures.

Customizing Your Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet Experience

One of the aspects I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to make it your own! If you like a little extra kick, don’t shy away from adding a pinch more cayenne pepper or a finely diced green chili to the sauce. For a slightly different creaminess profile, a splash of full-fat coconut milk can introduce a subtle sweetness and exotic twist, perfect if you’re looking to experiment beyond traditional dairy. Vegetables are also a fantastic addition; I often stir in some colorful bell peppers, tender peas, or even some finely chopped zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking to boost the nutritional content and add textural interest. For garnishes, fresh cilantro is non-negotiable in my book, adding a burst of freshness that brightens the entire dish. A squeeze of lime juice just before serving can also awaken the flavors in a remarkable way, and for those who enjoy a cooling element, a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream swirled on top provides a lovely tangy contrast. If you’re catering to different dietary needs, you could even try substituting the chicken with cubed paneer or firm tofu for a delicious vegetarian adaptation, adjusting cooking times accordingly. The possibilities are truly endless, and that’s the beauty of cooking at home.

So, there you have it. My heartfelt invitation to you is to set aside an evening soon and embark on the culinary adventure that is this fantastic recipe. I promise you won’t regret it. The joy of creating something so profoundly delicious in your own kitchen is an incredibly rewarding experience. Once you’ve taken that first bite of your homemade Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet, I genuinely believe you’ll understand why I’m so passionate about sharing it. Don’t just read about it; taste it, savor it, and make it a part of your culinary repertoire. And when you do, please, please come back and tell me all about it! Your experiences, your variations, your successes – I want to hear them all. Share your thoughts, your tips, and even photos of your glorious creation in the comments section below. Let’s build a community of enthusiastic home cooks who aren’t afraid to dive into rich flavors and create unforgettable meals together. Happy cooking!