Inspired by the bold, buttery flavors of a Texas Roadhouse classic, this Butter Chicken Skillet is a southern-style comfort meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s rich, garlicky, and savory with a subtle hint of sweetness from honey that elevates the dish without overpowering it. This recipe offers that down-home, skillet-seared perfection with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor.

The chicken is seasoned simply with paprika, salt, and pepper, then pan-seared to golden perfection before being nestled into a luscious garlic butter sauce. The pan juices, combined with chicken broth and honey, form a slightly thickened glaze that soaks into the meat, creating a juicy, crave-worthy main course. Add cheese for an optional melty finish, or keep it classic and let the butter shine.

This dish is incredibly versatile. It works beautifully with either chicken breasts or thighs, and it pairs effortlessly with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or thick slices of Texas toast. The richness of the butter is balanced by the brightness of herbs and the umami kick from caramelized onions, if you choose to include them.

The best part? It’s all done in one pan, making cleanup as easy as the cooking. Whether you’re cooking for the family or just treating yourself to a skillet of pure comfort, this Texas-style dinner is a hearty hit you’ll return to again and again.

Servings and Timing:

• Serves: 4–6
• Ready in: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 4 tbsp butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• Salt and cracked black pepper, to taste
• Optional: shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, for topping
• Optional: caramelized onions, for extra richness

Instructions:

1. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, cracked black pepper, and paprika.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through—about 5–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the honey. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the pan—this builds flavor.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over each piece. Simmer uncovered for 5–7 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens and coats the chicken.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the chicken and cover the skillet briefly to melt.
7. Garnish with dried parsley and optional caramelized onions before serving.

Variations:

• Creamy Twist: Add 1/4 cup of heavy cream after the broth for a creamier sauce.
• Spicy Version: Stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some kick.
• Herb Upgrade: Use fresh parsley or thyme for an elevated herbaceous note.
• Smoky Style: Substitute smoked paprika and add a few drops of liquid smoke for a barbecue-like depth.

Tips:

• Pound thicker chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t skip searing the chicken—it adds essential color and flavor.
• For deeper richness, use homemade chicken broth or a high-quality store-bought one.
• The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools slightly; avoid over-reducing.
• Serve with buttery mashed potatoes or grilled corn for a true Southern experience.