This Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken is an easy and cheesy delight! Imagine tender chicken topped with creamy gravy, mushrooms, and lots of melted cheese—how can you resist?
I love making this dish on a chilly evening; it warms you right up! Plus, it pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or a simple salad. Always a hit at my dinner table! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here for their tenderness. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work wonderfully too—they stay juicier during cooking!
Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack for extra creaminess. If you’re looking for a healthier option, reduced-fat cheese will still melt nicely.
Mushrooms: White or cremini mushrooms add depth to the dish. If you’re not a mushroom fan, try replacing them with bell peppers or spinach for a different taste.
Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken the gravy. To make this gluten-free, you can swap it for cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend—just follow their specific ratios for best results!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken Breasts?
Cooking chicken breasts evenly is key to a juicy dish! Here’s how to ensure they cook perfectly:
- Start by bringing the chicken to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking—this helps them cook more evenly.
- Keep your skillet on medium-high heat. Searing gets a nice crust, but don’t overcrowd the pan; it can lower the heat too much. Cook in batches if needed.
- Use a meat thermometer. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This prevents overcooking and keeps the chicken juicy!
Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (white or cremini)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick way to bring a bit of restaurant magic to your dining table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’ll be ready for your chicken once you’re done cooking it on the stovetop.
2. Season the Chicken:
In the meantime, take your chicken breasts and season both sides evenly with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This will add great flavor to the chicken!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them until they are golden brown on both sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Once they are nicely browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté them until they are softened and slightly browned, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
5. Make the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables and stir everything together well. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, which helps to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to make a smooth gravy. Allow it to simmer for about 3-5 minutes until thickened.
6. Add Chicken and Cheese:
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, and spoon some of that delicious gravy, mushrooms, and onions over the tops of each breast. Once they are all covered, generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over each chicken breast!
7. Bake:
Now it’s time to transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (it should have an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. If you like, garnish your smothered chicken with some chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or rice.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken! It’s a hearty meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s important to fully thaw the chicken beforehand! Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and immerse it in cold water for a quicker thaw. Pat it dry before seasoning to avoid extra moisture in the pan.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and gravy in advance. Cook the chicken and allow it to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, just reheat it gently in the oven until warmed through, and add fresh cheese on top if desired!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can use the microwave or stovetop. For stovetop reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to the skillet to keep the chicken moist.
What Can I Substitute for Mushrooms?
If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can easily substitute them with bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Each will add a unique flavor to your dish while keeping it delicious!
