Texas Butter Chicken Skillet: Bold, Creamy & Comforting

Hi, I’m Sarah Jansen, a traveler and food blogger who has always been inspired by regional flavors that tell a story. Texas cuisine is bold, soulful, and unapologetically rich, and this Texas Butter Chicken Skillet embodies that spirit perfectly. Imagine juicy chicken simmered in a smoky, spiced butter sauce with hints of chili, garlic, and paprika—all in one pan. It’s quick enough for weeknights but indulgent enough for weekends. A true comfort dish, this recipe delivers big flavor with simple effort.

Texas Butter Chicken Skillet

The Texas Butter Chicken Skillet is a one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken with a buttery, smoky sauce infused with Tex-Mex spices. Garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and butter work together to create a rich base, while a touch of cream balances the heat. It’s rustic, hearty, and satisfying, making it ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests. Paired with cornbread, rice, or roasted vegetables, this dish brings the bold flavors of Texas straight to your table in under an hour.

Why This Recipe Works

• One-Pan Simplicity: Minimal dishes with maximum flavor.
• Bold Tex-Mex Spices: Chili, garlic, and smoked paprika bring depth.
• Butter-Rich Sauce: Creamy, silky, and indulgent.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve with rice, bread, or roasted sides.
• Balanced Flavor: Heat, smoke, and creaminess in perfect harmony.

Health Benefits

• Protein-Rich: Chicken provides lean protein for energy and repair.
• Controlled Indulgence: Butter and cream used mindfully for balance.
• Spices with Benefits: Garlic and chili support heart health and metabolism.
• Customizable: Can be adjusted to low-carb or keto by changing sides.
• Comfort Food with Nutrients: A hearty meal that satisfies cravings and nourishes.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier results)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

How to Make Texas Butter Chicken Skillet

Season chicken with salt, pepper, chili powder, and smoked paprika. In a skillet, sear chicken in butter and oil until golden brown, then set aside. Sauté onions and garlic in the same pan until fragrant. Stir in remaining spices, chicken broth, and cream, creating a velvety sauce. Return chicken to the skillet, simmering gently until fully cooked and coated in sauce. Garnish with herbs and serve hot with rice, bread, or cornbread. A bold, buttery Texan-inspired feast in one pan.

Instructions:

1. Season the Chicken:
   Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub with salt, pepper, 1 tsp chili powder, and 1 tsp smoked paprika. This creates a flavorful base and ensures good browning.
2. Sear the Chicken:
   Heat 2 tbsp butter and olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken in the pan and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. Build the Flavor Base:
   In the same skillet, melt another 2 tbsp butter. Add diced onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the Spices:
   Stir in remaining chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne. Toast the spices for 30 seconds to release their aroma.
5. Make the Sauce:
   Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking to combine. The sauce should become silky and fragrant, with a smoky, buttery depth.
6. Simmer with Chicken:
   Return chicken to the skillet, coating with sauce. Lower heat to medium-low and simmer for 10–12 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature and sauce thickens.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   Sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro before serving. Plate directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation.

This method ensures juicy chicken bathed in a luscious butter sauce with layers of smoky, spicy flavor—true Texas comfort in a skillet.

Cook & Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutrition Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 32g
• Carbs: 6g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 580mg

Serving with Texas Butter Chicken Skillet

Serve this Texas Butter Chicken Skillet hot, directly from the pan for a rustic, hearty experience. Pair with fluffy rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or warm cornbread to soak up the smoky, creamy sauce. For a lighter option, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad. Garnish with fresh herbs for a burst of color. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish delivers bold Texas flavor that brings comfort and satisfaction to every bite.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Thighs Over Breasts: Use chicken thighs for richer flavor and tenderness.
• Extra Smoky: Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded cheddar at the end for Tex-Mex flair.
• Spice Adjustments: Tone down cayenne for kids or spice it up with jalapeños.
• Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of traditional sides.

FAQ:

The Bottom Line

The Texas Butter Chicken Skillet is comfort food at its finest—bold, smoky, buttery, and irresistibly satisfying. It captures the hearty spirit of Texas cooking while remaining simple enough for weeknight meals. With just one pan, you’ll create a dish that’s rich in flavor, deeply comforting, and endlessly versatile. Whether you pair it with cornbread for rustic charm or rice for simplicity, this skillet meal is guaranteed to become a repeat favorite at your table.