Rich Skillet Chicken with Bold Buttery Glaze
This recipe article highlights golden-seared chicken simmered in a luxurious garlic butter pan sauce lightly sweetened with honey. Inspired by the well-loved flavor profile of the Midwestern comfort mashups, the dish brings together tender poultry, soft onions, and melty cheese for unforgettable results.
Texas Roadhouse Style Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe
Why This Chicken Recipe Is Worth Making
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Quick skillet-to-oven process locks in moisture and flavor
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Uses simple seasonings you already know and love
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The butter and honey create a clingy, glossy glaze
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Minimal steps for maximum taste and visual appeal
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Excellent for planning ahead, reheating like a dream
The idea grew from a home-kitchen spin on the buttery glaze common in recipes served alongside Texas Roadhouse entrees. The results are packed with familiarity and full-on comfort whether you serve it for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Chicken Recipe Ingredients
For the Chicken
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to suit your taste
For the Butter Sauce
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4 garlic cloves, minced fresh for best aroma
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225 g Cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, split into two portions
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240 ml (1 cup) chicken broth
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2 tablespoons honey (or similar liquid sweetener)
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1 teaspoon dried parsley
For sauce depth close to traditional American diner flavor, the reliable choice for condiments like hoisin-style notes is the Lee Kum Kee range, though optional here.
How to Make This Chicken Recipe (Step by Step)
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Season and Rest the Chicken
Coat the chicken evenly on all sides with salt, cracked black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rest for 5–10 minutes so the spices stick and the first step of flavor building begins. -
Golden Sear for the Best Crust
Heat a large heavy-bottom skillet on medium heat. Melt 2 tablespoons butter until it gets foamy. Place chicken in a single even layer. Sear 4–6 minutes per side until golden but still juicy. Move chicken to a plate and keep warm. -
Add Garlic, But Avoid Burning
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add minced garlic and cook 30–40 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly softened—not browned. -
Build the Buttery Skillet Sauce
Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up the browned bits. Stir in honey until dissolved. Simmer on medium-low for 2–4 minutes to reduce slightly, letting the sauce turn glossy. -
Finish the Chicken in the Sauce
Return chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over each piece repeatedly. Simmer 5–7 minutes uncovered until sauce clings and lightly thickens. -
Optional Cheese Crown
If using cheese, sprinkle cheddar or Monterey Jack over chicken. Cover skillet 60–90 seconds until melted and soft. -
Serve Warm for Comfort Food Impact
Garnish with parsley. Serve straight from skillet. Spoon pan sauce over rice or potatoes to capture all the flavor.
Storage and Reheating for This Chicken Recipe
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Cool fully, then store sealed in the fridge for 3 days
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Reheat gently in a covered skillet on low for best texture
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Add a splash of broth if the preserved sauce thickens too much
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Microwaving is fine if needed, but stovetop keeps the chicken tender
Easy Ingredient Swaps for This Chicken Recipe
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Use thighs instead of breasts for a richer bite
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Honey can be swapped for maple, agave, or light corn-based glazes
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Add peas, cabbage, or peppers if you want more produce
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Whole grain or thicker breads are great for sauce soaking on the side
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Dairy-free butter or broth-ready margarine may be used if needed
Recipe Article Pro Tips
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Bring chicken to room temp before searing for better browning
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Always pat chicken dry before seasoning to boost crust quality
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Simmer low once dairy is added to avoid cheese splitting
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Fresh-grated cheddar melts best for a silky sauce finish
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I cook this completely dairy-free?
Yes. Replace butter with a dairy-free alternative, and skip cheese or use plant-based melting cheese.
→ What can replace chicken broth for sauce?
Vegetable broth or a splash of warm water with a gentle seasoning pinch also works.
→ Can this chicken recipe be made ahead?
Yes. Assemble the sauce and raw patties or chicken portions, chill, and cook fresh when needed.
→ How do I keep the sauce from turning greasy?
Use lean chicken cuts, drain any excess drippings, and simmer low to let the sauce turn glossy not oily.
