The Best Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe 🍽️🧈🍗

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner, look no further than the butter chicken skillet recipe. This flavorful dish combines tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and rich butter to create a comforting meal that’s perfect for weeknights or weekend gatherings. Inspired by the popular Texas Roadhouse butter chicken skillet, this copycat Texas Roadhouse butter chicken recipe offers a restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

2. Why You Will Love This Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe

This butter chicken skillet recipe is loved for its quick preparation, irresistible flavor, and versatility. It requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum taste. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze. The creamy garlic butter sauce perfectly coats each piece of chicken, infusing it with savory richness. Plus, you can easily customize this dish with your favorite herbs or side dishes. For similar comforting recipes, explore our easy brown sugar peach cake or our raspberry cinnamon rolls with lemon glaze.

3. Ingredients for the Perfect Butter Chicken Skillet

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

For a step-by-step guide and shopping tips, check out our pumpkin oreo balls or our vegan pumpkin cheesecake bars.

4. How to Make a Flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet

Preparation of the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides—about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Sautéing the Garlic and Making the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to your taste.

Combining Chicken and Final Touches

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated with the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for added freshness. For a more indulgent twist, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

5. Storage Tips and Reheating

This butter chicken skillet recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to maintain creaminess. For best results, avoid reheating more than once to preserve flavor and texture.

6. Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. Also, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For an added touch, try our strawberry cheesecake as a sweet side option.

7. Tips to Make the Best Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet

Use quality butter and fresh garlic for a richer flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook chicken in batches if needed.
Adjust seasoning and spice levels to suit your taste preferences.
Let the sauce simmer until it reaches your desired thickness.
Experiment with adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for more color and nutrients.

8. FAQs About the Best Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, using chicken thighs will give a juicier and more flavorful result. Adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Prepare the butter chicken skillet in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use dairy-free butter or margarine as well for a completely dairy-free version.

9. Conclusion

The butter chicken skillet recipe is a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish perfect for any dinner occasion. Inspired by the Texas Roadhouse butter chicken skillet, this homemade version guarantees a restaurant-quality experience at home. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy a rich, buttery chicken dish that’s sure to impress. Try this recipe today and elevate your weeknight dinners to delicious new heights!

The Best Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe