This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken brings that famous rich, buttery flavor straight into your kitchen. Tender chicken smothered in a silky garlic-honey sauce with paprika and herbs—this copycat version captures the essence of the restaurant favorite without any complicated steps.
Perfect for a comforting dinner or when you want something hearty and flavorful!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🧈 Buttery Goodness: A luxurious sauce made from real butter and garlic.
- 🍗 Tender & Juicy: Chicken thighs or breasts cook up perfectly every time.
- 🍯 Sweet & Savory Balance: Honey adds just the right touch of sweetness.
- 🕒 Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1½–2 lbs total)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (Hungarian sweet paprika recommended)
For the Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter , divided
- 4 cloves garlic , minced fresh
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons honey (raw or local for best flavor)
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley (or fresh, if garnishing at the end)
Optional Add-In:
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese or pepper jack cheese (for creamy indulgence)
- Caramelized onions (store-bought or homemade) – for serving on top
Instructions:
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Season both sides of the chicken generously with salt , freshly cracked black pepper , and paprika . Let sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
Add 2 tablespoons of butter and swirl to coat the pan.
Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet without overcrowding . Cook for about 5 minutes per side , or until golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) . The chicken should release easily from the pan once properly seared.
Remove the chicken to a plate and tent loosely with foil to keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base
In the same skillet (don’t clean it yet—those browned bits are full of flavor), add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter .
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic . Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute , stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly golden—do not let it brown too much or it can turn bitter.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth , and immediately begin scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to lift all those caramelized bits (this is called fond , and it’s where most of the flavor comes from).
Stir in the honey and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let cook for 2 minutes , allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
Step 5: Simmer Everything Together
Return the chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
Spoon the sauce generously over each piece of chicken to glaze.
Simmer uncovered for 5–7 minutes on low heat, allowing the sauce to thicken and cling beautifully to the chicken.
If the sauce reduces too quickly, add a splash more broth to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Optional Cheese Finish
If using cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the chicken after the sauce has thickened.
Cover the skillet for 1–2 minutes , letting the steam melt the cheese into a rich, luscious finish.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle dried or fresh parsley over the top for color and brightness.
For extra flair, arrange caramelized onions over the chicken for added depth and presentation.
Serve warm with rice, mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or as-is with a side of steamed vegetables.
Tips for Success:
- 🥘 Chicken Choice: Thighs offer more moisture, but breasts work great too—just don’t overcook!
- 🧄 Fresh Garlic Only: Mincing your own garlic gives the best flavor and texture.
- 🍞 Soak Up the Sauce: Serve with rice or bread to enjoy every last drop of the buttery sauce.
- 🧂 Adjust Sweetness: Tweak the honey amount to suit your taste—some prefer a little more kick than sweet.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 4 servings):
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: ~35g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fat: ~20g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~8g
Serving Suggestions:
- Over white rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
- With garlic mashed potatoes for extra richness.
- Alongside roasted broccoli or green beans for a balanced plate.
- With warm dinner rolls or baguette slices to soak up the sauce.
This Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken is everything you love about the original—creamy, buttery, and bursting with flavor—but made simply at home. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Try it tonight and enjoy that first bite of buttery, garlicky goodness!
