Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken

Creamy, rich, and full of flavor—this Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken is comfort food done right. With tender chicken simmered in a velvety butter sauce, it’s a dish that blends homestyle southern flavors with the indulgence of classic butter chicken. Inspired by the buttery rolls and homestyle flair of Texas Roadhouse, this recipe is simplified so you can bring restaurant-worthy comfort to your table without the fuss.

Behind the Recipe

The idea for this recipe came from a love of two things: Texas Roadhouse’s signature buttery goodness and the classic flavors of butter chicken. Instead of a long list of spices and complicated steps, this version keeps it simple, approachable, and perfect for weeknight dinners—without losing that indulgent, creamy richness you crave.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Butter chicken, originally from India, is known for its silky tomato-butter-cream sauce and tender chicken. Texas Roadhouse is famous for hearty American comfort food, especially those irresistible buttery rolls. This recipe is a fusion, taking the creamy, savory butter sauce concept and making it easy for home cooks to recreate with a Texas-style twist.

Why You’ll Love Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken

• Simple Ingredients: No hard-to-find spices—just pantry staples.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Creamy, savory, and perfect for family dinners.
• Versatile: Serve with rice, bread, or mashed potatoes.
• Comforting: The buttery sauce makes it feel indulgent yet familiar.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses everyday ingredients without breaking the bank.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Tastes even better the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. Sear the chicken first: It locks in juices and adds depth of flavor.
2. Use unsalted butter: Gives you more control over seasoning.
3. Simmer gently: Don’t boil the sauce—keep it low for creaminess.
4. Add a touch of sweetness: A little honey or sugar balances the savory flavors.
5. Finish with fresh herbs: Parsley or cilantro brightens the richness.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil – for searing
• 1 tsp paprika – adds mild smokiness
• 1 tsp garlic powder – boosts flavor
• 1 tsp onion powder – adds depth
• 1 tsp salt – enhances taste
• ½ tsp black pepper – mild spice

For the Sauce:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter – rich, creamy base
• 1 medium onion, finely diced – for sweetness
• 3 garlic cloves, minced – savory punch
• 1 tsp paprika – flavor and color
• 1 tsp chili powder (optional) – for mild heat
• 1 cup tomato sauce – silky base
• ½ cup heavy cream – for creaminess
• ½ cup chicken broth – keeps it light and flavorful
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar – balances acidity
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro – for garnish

Ingredient Substitutions

• Chicken: Swap with turkey or shrimp.
• Heavy Cream: Use coconut milk for dairy-free.
• Tomato Sauce: Crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce.
• Honey: Maple syrup or sugar.
• Butter: Vegan butter for a dairy-free version.

Ingredient Spotlight

Butter: The star of this dish—it gives richness and a silky finish.

Chicken: A versatile protein that soaks up the buttery sauce beautifully.

Tomato Sauce & Cream: The perfect duo that makes the sauce tangy yet smooth.

Instructions

1. Season & Sear Chicken:
   Toss chicken chunks with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet and sear chicken on medium-high until golden (not fully cooked). Remove and set aside.
2. Build the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onions and cook until soft. Stir in garlic, paprika, and chili powder.
3. Simmer Base:
   Pour in tomato sauce, broth, and honey. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add Cream & Chicken:
   Stir in heavy cream, then return chicken to skillet. Simmer on low for 15–20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce is creamy.
5. Finish & Serve:
   Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve hot with rice, bread, or mashed potatoes.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This dish works because of balance: the butter and cream soften the tang of tomatoes, while the paprika adds warmth. The chicken stays juicy from searing, and the sauce turns velvety from simmering low and slow.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Use chicken thighs for extra tenderness.
• Double the sauce for extra rice or bread dipping.
• Add a splash of lemon juice at the end to brighten flavors.
• For a spicier kick, add cayenne or hot sauce.

What to Avoid

• Don’t overcook chicken—it will turn dry.
• Avoid boiling the cream—it may split.
• Don’t skip searing—it adds tons of flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~420
Protein: 32g
Fat: 26g
Carbs: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream.
• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

How to Serve Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken

• With steamed rice, naan, or cornbread.
• Over mashed potatoes for a southern comfort twist.
• Alongside roasted veggies or a fresh salad.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Shred chicken and use in wraps.
• Spoon over baked potatoes.
• Turn into a pasta sauce with penne or linguine.

Additional Tips

• Use a nonstick or cast-iron skillet for best results.
• Add parmesan for a cheesy southern flair.
• Stir in spinach or peas for extra veggies.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve in a cast-iron skillet, sprinkle fresh parsley on top, and place alongside warm rolls or naan. Add a drizzle of cream over the top for a restaurant-style look.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Cajun Butter Chicken: Add Cajun seasoning.
• Garlic Butter Chicken: Double the garlic for an aromatic punch.
• Cheesy Butter Chicken: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella.
• Slow Cooker Version: Combine ingredients and cook on low 6–7 hours.
• Grilled Butter Chicken: Marinate chicken and grill before adding to sauce.

FAQ’s

Q1. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes—use vegan butter and coconut milk.

Q2. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, just skip the searing step and add to sauce at the end.

Q3. How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer uncovered or add a cornstarch slurry.

Q4. Can I make it spicier?
Yes—add cayenne, chili flakes, or hot sauce.

Q5. Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, but increase simmering time until fully cooked.

Q6. What sides go best?
Rice, mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or roasted veggies.

Q7. Can I meal prep this?
Yes, it reheats beautifully for up to 3 days.

Q8. Does it freeze well?
Yes, freeze in portions and thaw in fridge before reheating.

Q9. Can I make it lighter?
Use half-and-half or Greek yogurt instead of cream.

Q10. Is it kid-friendly?
Yes, keep spices mild for little ones.

Conclusion

This Easy Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken is everything you love about comfort food—rich, creamy, and soul-satisfying—without the hassle of complicated steps. Perfect for weeknights, holidays, or whenever you want a cozy, restaurant-style meal at home, this dish is bound to become a family favorite.

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