This Texas Roadhouse-inspired smothered chicken is a winner! Tender chicken is topped with creamy gravy, melted cheese, and tasty mushrooms. Yum!
I love making this dish because it’s simple and filling. Pair it with some veggies or a side of mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a meal that’s hard to beat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs; just adjust cooking time slightly as they may take longer.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for a deeper flavor, but white button mushrooms work well too. If you’re not a mushroom fan, you could skip them altogether or consider using diced bell peppers for a different texture and taste.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or even whole milk that has been thickened with a bit more flour. You won’t get quite the same richness, but it will still be creamy!
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can mix it up with pepper jack for some spice or use mozzarella for a milder creaminess. A cheese blend can add more flavor complexity, too.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked Without Drying It Out?
To keep your chicken breasts juicy and flavorful, use these tips:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps the seasoning stick better and reduces excess moisture while cooking.
- Cooking on medium heat is key. Too high and you risk burning the outside before the inside is done. Searing for 4-5 minutes on each side usually does the trick.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after searing. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist when you slice into it.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Gravy?
For a smooth, delicious gravy, it’s all about the right technique:
- Start by letting the chicken broth simmer to cook off some of the liquid. This enhances the flavor.
- When adding your flour slurry, do it gradually while whisking. This prevents lumps and achieves a smooth texture. Keep stirring until it thickens to your liking!
With these tips and tricks, your Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken will be both delicious and easy to make! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
For Cooking:
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini)
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, sliced thin
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Gravy:
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend with Monterey Jack)
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 25-30 minutes to cook. So you’ll be enjoying your delicious meal in about 40 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice sear. Next, season both sides of each breast with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder, ensuring an even coating of spices.
2. Dredge the Chicken:
Lightly coat each seasoned chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess flour. This creates a lovely crust and helps the chicken stay moist as it cooks.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear each side for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the butter. When it has melted, toss in the sliced mushrooms and onions. Cook these for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until they are tender and nicely browned.
5. Add Garlic:
Once the mushrooms and onions are cooked, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring to prevent burning.
6. Make the Gravy:
Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer. Make sure to scrape up any bits that are stuck to the bottom of the skillet; this adds extra flavor to your gravy!
7. Stir in Cream:
Add the heavy cream to the mixture and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
8. Thicken the Sauce:
To thicken your gravy, mix the flour slurry (1 tablespoon flour mixed with 2 tablespoons water) into the sauce, slowly whisking it to prevent lumps. Let it simmer until your gravy reaches your desired thickness.
9. Combine and Melt:
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the gravy over each piece. Top each breast with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy this delicious Texas Roadhouse-inspired Smothered Chicken!
Enjoy this rich and comforting dish that brings the flavors of Texas Roadhouse right to your home!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure they are completely thawed beforehand. The best way to thaw them is in the refrigerator overnight, or you can use the quick method by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging them in cold water.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich. For a thicker alternative, mix plain Greek yogurt with milk to achieve a creamy consistency.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if necessary to restore creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and the gravy in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the gravy gently and add the chicken to warm through before topping with cheese and melting.
These FAQs should help clarify any common concerns while making your delicious Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken! Enjoy!
