Name: Butter Chicken Skillet Texas Roadhouse Style
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Fusion (Indian-American)
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts 1 cup Greek yogurt 1 tablespoon garlic paste 1 tablespoon ginger paste 2 teaspoons garam masala 1 teaspoon turmeric 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1.5 cups tomato puree 1 cup heavy cream 4 tablespoons butter (divided) Salt and pepper to taste 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional) Splash of water (if needed to loosen sauce)

Craving a creamy, spiced chicken dish that brings restaurant magic right into your kitchen? This Butter Chicken Skillet Texas Roadhouse Style isn’t your average takeout. It fuses the bold, comforting warmth of classic Indian butter chicken with the heartiness you’d expect from a Texas Roadhouse-style skillet. The result is rich, saucy, and perfect for scooping over fluffy rice or sopping up with warm naan.

What makes this version extra special? It’s all in the skillet. Cooking it Texas Roadhouse-style means letting those spices bloom in butter before simmering the chicken in a velvety tomato-cream sauce. Every bite is tender, aromatic, and just the right amount of indulgent for a weeknight comfort meal or a cozy dinner with friends.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get the most out of your Butter Chicken Skillet Texas Roadhouse Style, having the right tools will elevate your cooking experience:

Cast Iron Skillet: A must for this dish! It holds heat evenly and caramelizes the spices beautifully, creating a deep, rich flavor.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: To cut chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Essential for stirring the sauce without damaging your skillet’s surface.
Mixing Bowls: For marinating the chicken and preparing spice blends ahead of time.
Measuring Spoons & Cups: Precision matters, especially with spice-heavy dishes like butter chicken.

Investing in good cookware doesn’t just help with this recipe — it makes all your meals better. With these tools, your kitchen will be prepped for success.

Ingredients for the Butter Chicken Skillet Texas Roadhouse Style

Boneless Chicken Thighs or Breasts: The foundation of this dish. Thighs provide more flavor and tenderness, while breasts are leaner.
Greek Yogurt: Used in the marinade to tenderize the chicken and add a subtle tang.
Garlic & Ginger Paste: These two are the flavor backbone, bringing warmth and sharp depth.
Garam Masala: A key spice blend that defines the classic butter chicken aroma.
Turmeric & Chili Powder: For color and heat — this duo adds vibrancy and spice.
Tomato Puree: Builds the rich, slightly tangy sauce base.
Heavy Cream: For the velvety, indulgent finish that balances all the spices.
Butter: Essential for blooming the spices and giving that signature buttery finish.
Fresh Cilantro: Optional, but adds a lovely green freshness on top.
Salt & Pepper: To season and bring everything together.

How To Make the Butter Chicken Skillet Texas Roadhouse Style

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, garlic & ginger paste, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and toss well to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (overnight is even better).

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of butter and sear the marinated chicken until browned on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the skillet – do this in batches if needed. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, melt more butter and add garlic & ginger paste. Sauté until fragrant. Stir in tomato puree, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens and deepens in color.

Step 4: Simmer the Chicken

Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Stir to coat with the sauce. Add a splash of water if it’s too thick. Simmer on low for 10 minutes so the flavors can meld.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently until the sauce is smooth and glossy. Simmer for 2-3 more minutes. Taste and adjust salt or spice levels.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Top with chopped fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice, naan, or even over mashed potatoes for a fusion twist.

How to Serve and Store Butter Chicken Skillet Texas Roadhouse Style

When it comes to serving, this butter chicken skillet is incredibly versatile. Spoon it over fluffy basmati rice or plate it with warm naan bread to soak up the creamy sauce. Want a Southern twist? Serve it with buttery mashed potatoes or even Texas toast. The sauce clings to everything beautifully, so don’t hold back on generous portions.

Leftovers store well, too. Once cooled, transfer the butter chicken into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. It also freezes like a dream — just reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal because they stay juicy and tender. However, chicken breasts work well if you prefer a leaner option.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Marinate the chicken a day ahead, or even cook the full dish and store it. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers taste even better.

How spicy is this version?

It’s mild to moderate. You control the heat with chili powder. Add extra or use cayenne for more kick.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute the cream with full-fat coconut milk and the yogurt with a plant-based alternative, though the flavor will slightly change.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check spice blends and tomato puree for any hidden additives.

What sides go best with it?

Rice, naan, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables all pair well. For a complete meal, add a side salad or steamed green beans.

Want More Skillet Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this Butter Chicken Skillet Texas Roadhouse Style got you hooked on skillet meals, you’re in for a treat. For something equally comforting with a twist, check out the One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta — it’s creamy, savory, and comes together in one pan.

Looking for something spicy and cheesy? The Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe layers bold flavors with classic comfort.

Or stay in the skillet comfort zone with the One Skillet Smoky Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta. It’s smoky, creamy, and ready for weeknight rotation.

For fans of cream-based chicken dishes, don’t miss the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta — just enough spice with luscious sauce. And if you’re after rich, layered goodness, the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta brings a meaty twist with minimal effort.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this recipe to your dinner boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you use thighs or go with breasts? Add extra cream? Let me know in the comments. I’m always curious how others personalize it.

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