This Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken is a yummy, cheesy dish that’s so simple to make! Juicy chicken breasts are cooked to perfection and piled high with creamy gravy and melted cheese.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are classic here for their tenderness. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you could use chicken thighs, which are juicier and flavorful. For a vegetarian twist, try using firm tofu or portobello mushrooms.
Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add great texture. If you don’t have mushrooms, diced bell peppers could be a nice substitute. They’ll provide some crunch and color!
Cheese: Cheddar gives a wonderful flavor. I often recommend a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for creaminess. If you’re non-dairy, look for plant-based cheese shreds that melt well.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for better control of salt. If you’re vegetarian, vegetable broth works in this recipe too!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken Breasts Without Drying Them Out?
To keep chicken moist, start with an even cooking thickness. You can pound them to ensure uniformity. During cooking, use medium-high heat for a nice sear, then reduce the heat to finish cooking through. That way, you avoid overcooking, keeping the chicken juicy!
- Season both sides with your spice mix generously—it adds flavor!
- Cook in a preheated skillet with oil until golden brown on both sides.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F for safety.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking experience! 🍽️
Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe Made Easy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
For the Gravy:
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes seasoning and cooking the chicken, another 10 minutes preparing the gravy, and the rest on melting the cheese and garnishing. So, you can have a restaurant-style meal ready in half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every piece is coated well for maximum flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Then, toss in the sliced mushrooms and onions. Cook these together for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and caramelized. This will add a yummy depth of flavor to your dish!
4. Make the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom and onion mixture, stirring it in to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to get rid of that raw flour taste. Next, slowly pour in the chicken broth while constantly stirring to avoid lumps. Allow the gravy to simmer and thicken for about 3-5 minutes. It should be nice and thick!
5. Smother the Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them in the gravy. Spoon some of that delicious gravy with mushrooms and onions over each piece of chicken. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously on top of the chicken.
6. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for another 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and gooey. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for!
7. Serve:
Finally, garnish the chicken with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the smothered chicken hot with your choice of sides, like creamy mashed potatoes or a medley of steamed vegetables. Enjoy your homemade Texas Roadhouse-style Smothered Chicken!
Bon appétit! 🍽️
FAQ about Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way is to leave them in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker thaw. This ensures even cooking and maintains juiciness!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and the gravy in advance, store them separately in the fridge, and then combine them when you’re ready to eat. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the gravy if needed.
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth is a great substitute for a vegetarian version. You can also make your broth by simmering water with spices and aromatics like garlic, onions, and herbs to boost the flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently in a skillet or the microwave, adding a little broth or water to keep the chicken moist and prevent it from drying out!
