This Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken is a tasty dish loaded with grilled chicken topped with savory mushrooms and creamy gravy. It’s quick to make and perfect for a cozy dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier flavor or even grill marinated chicken for a smoky twist.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their deeper flavor, but white mushrooms work just as well. If you’re looking for something different, try adding spinach or bell peppers.
Onions: A large onion adds sweetness; yellow onions are my go-to. If you’re short on onions, shallots can be a great substitute, offering a milder taste.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or even using unsweetened almond milk works in a pinch.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds delicious flavor. For variety, try Monterey Jack or a blend of your favorites. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor too!
How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Perfectly?
To ensure your chicken is cooked just right, follow these tips:
- Start with chicken at room temperature for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer – aim for 165°F internal temperature.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy before slicing.
Running through these steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time!
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
For the Mushroom Gravy:
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms (white or cremini)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to cook, giving you a total of around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely! Season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure to coat them well for great flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked (should reach an internal temperature of 165°F). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Gravy:
In the same skillet, add the butter. Once it’s melted and bubbly, toss in the sliced onions and mushrooms. Cook them together for about 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are nicely browned and the onions are soft and translucent.
4. Create a Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and onions. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes. This cooks the flour and helps thicken the gravy later.
5. Stir in the Liquid:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, mixing it well to avoid lumps. Next, pour in the heavy cream and keep stirring until the gravy thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.
6. Combine Chicken and Gravy:
Now it’s time to bring back the chicken! Place the cooked chicken breasts back in the skillet and spoon some of that flavorful mushroom gravy over the top. If you’re feeling cheesy, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over each piece of chicken!
7. Let it Simmer:
Cover the skillet with a lid, turn the heat down to low, and let everything simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt and all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is ready, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve your delicious smothered chicken hot, with mashed potatoes or your favorite steamed vegetables on the side. Enjoy your hearty homemade meal!
Bon appétit and enjoy your Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely first. The best way to do this is by placing the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also thaw it by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even unsweetened almond milk. Just note that the sauce may be slightly less rich, but still delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Sides Pair Well with Smothered Chicken?
This dish is perfect with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the gravy. It also pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a green salad, or even buttery bread for a complete meal!
