Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

Creamy Butter Chicken Skillet: A Melt-in-Your-Mouth Delight 🍗🧈✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner, look no further than the butter chicken skillet. This dish combines tender chicken, a rich and creamy sauce, and bold spices to create a dish that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Inspired by popular dishes like the lemon herb slow cooker chicken and the creamy chicken and broccoli tortellini, this recipe is both comforting and versatile. Read on to discover how to make this delightful Texan-style butter chicken skillet with simple pantry ingredients!️

2. Ingredients Needed for the Creamy Butter Chicken Skillet

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust as needed)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Optional: red chili flakes for added heat

3. How to Make the Perfect Creamy Butter Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a touch of garam masala for authentic flavor. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter, then cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Spices and Tomatoes

Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, garam masala, and red chili flakes if using. Cook for 30 seconds to toast the spices. Then, pour in the tomato sauce and stir well, allowing it to simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk, stirring constantly to combine everything smoothly. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Return Chicken to the Skillet

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and coat it well with the creamy sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes to ensure the flavors meld perfectly. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

4. Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Skillet

• Use either boneless chicken thighs for more tenderness or breasts for a leaner option.
• Adjust the heat and spice levels to suit your taste.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it a bit longer or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
• For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or grill the chicken beforehand.

5. Storing and Reheating Your Creamy Butter Chicken Skillet

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the dish in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving for long periods as it can cause the sauce to separate. For best results, reheat the dish with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.

6. Serving Suggestions for Your Chicken Skillet

This creamy chicken dinner pairs beautifully with steamed rice, warm naan bread, or roasted vegetables. For added texture, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on top. To make the meal more filling, consider serving it alongside a side of garlic butter chicken and vegetables or a light salad.

7. FAQs About the Creamy Butter Chicken Skillet

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free and vegan option. The flavors will still be rich and satisfying.

How long does it take to prepare this chicken skillet?

The total prep and cooking time is approximately 30-35 minutes, making it a quick yet luxurious dinner option.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay moist and tender, and they add more flavor to the dish.

Are there substitutions for the spices?

If you don’t have all the spices, a combination of curry powder or a premixed garam masala works well as a substitute.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensure your skillet heats evenly and releases your chicken smoothly—making cooking a breeze and cleanup even easier.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Quickly chop onions and garlic with precision, saving prep time.
• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker: Perfect for making a refreshing drink while cooking or enjoying a cool beverage afterward.

9. Conclusion

This butter chicken skillet offers a sumptuous and easy way to enjoy a creamy chicken dinner that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or impressing guests, this dish combines rich spices, succulent chicken, and a velvety sauce for a truly satisfying experience. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Don’t forget to experiment with spice levels and accompaniments to make this recipe your own!

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