Why Make This Recipe
Effortless Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken is a simple yet delicious meal that brings the richness of Texas flavors right into your kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful without spending hours cooking. This recipe is easy to follow, requires minimal preparation, and uses common ingredients, making it accessible for anyone, even beginner cooks. Plus, who can resist the buttery, garlicky goodness enveloping tender chicken?
How to Make Effortless Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 skinless chicken breasts or thighs, boneless
- Minced garlic from 4 cloves
- Optional: Caramelized onions for extra flavor
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 4 tablespoons of butter, split up
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- A pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Optional: Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
Directions:
- Sprinkle salt, ground black pepper, and paprika over both sides of the chicken pieces.
- Set a large pan over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt.
- Place the chicken in the pan and cook until fully cooked and browned on each side, roughly 5-6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Move the chicken out and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt the rest of the butter. Toss in the garlic and let it cook for 30-60 seconds until its aroma comes through, but don’t let it darken.
- Add chicken stock and honey to the pan. Scrape up any bits on the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon so they mix into the sauce.
- Put the chicken pieces back into the pan and coat them with the sauce. Keep cooking uncovered for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken slightly.
- If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the chicken, then cover for a brief moment to let it melt.
- Sprinkle dried parsley over everything before serving. Feel free to add caramelized onions for garnish if you want a boost of flavor.
How to Serve Effortless Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken
Serve this delicious butter chicken over a bed of rice or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. It also pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Don’t forget to add the optional caramelized onions for extra richness and presentation!
How to Store Effortless Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it in a pan over low heat until heated through.
Tips to Make Effortless Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken
- Make sure your chicken pieces are of even thickness for even cooking.
- If you like a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- For an easy side dish, cook some rice or quinoa while the chicken is sautéing.
- If you want a thicker sauce, let it cook a little longer without the chicken to reduce it further.
Variation
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the pan when you are cooking the garlic, which will add more flavor and nutrition to the dish. For a herbaceous touch, try adding fresh thyme or rosemary.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or coconut oil.
Can I use chicken with skin for this recipe?
Yes, but cooking times may vary. You need to cook it longer to ensure the skin is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
