This Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken is a tasty dish that features juicy chicken breasts topped with melted cheese and delicious gravy. It’s easy to make and sure to please!
You’ll love how simple it is to whip up. Just cook the chicken, add the toppings, and enjoy a hearty meal. I often serve it with mashed potatoes—perfect for soaking up the extra gravy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too! They stay juicier and have more flavor.
Onions: Yellow onions give a nice sweetness when cooked down. If you’re looking for a milder onion taste, try using sweet onions, like Vidalia. For a bolder flavor, red onions are a good choice.
Mushrooms: I use sliced mushrooms for their earthy flavor. Cremini or baby bella mushrooms are delicious alternatives. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, you can skip them entirely!
Cheese: Monterey Jack is my favorite for its meltiness. If you’re in the mood for something sharper, feel free to substitute with cheddar, or mix the two for extra flavor.
How Do I Make the Chicken Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy chicken is to avoid overcooking it. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a hot skillet to sear the chicken, creating a nice golden crust while keeping moisture inside.
- Cook the chicken in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of browning.
- Use a meat thermometer! The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Once removed from the skillet, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps redistribute the juices.
Follow these tips, and your Smothered Chicken will be both flavorful and moist! Enjoy your meal!
Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Toppings:
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms (white or cremini)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a blend of cheddar and jack cheese)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Smothered Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes of cooking time, making it a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This enhances the flavor of the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and mushrooms. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and start to brown. This develops their flavor.
4. Add Garlic:
Now, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute until fragrant, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
5. Make the Gravy:
Spoon the flour over the cooked vegetables, stirring well to coat everything. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to cook slightly.
6. Add Chicken Broth:
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let the gravy simmer and thicken for about 3-5 minutes.
7. Creamy Option:
If you like a creamier gravy, stir in the heavy cream at this point and heat it through.
8. Combine Chicken and Gravy:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the gravy over each piece. Generously sprinkle the shredded cheese over the chicken.
9. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for about 2-3 minutes over low heat.
10. Serve and Garnish:
Once the cheese is melted, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or chives. Serve your smothered chicken with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a hearty meal!
Enjoy your tasty homemade Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken!
FAQ for Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can make the dish even juicier since they have a bit more fat than chicken breasts. Just ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
How Can I Make This Dish Lower in Calories?
To lighten up the dish, you can skip the heavy cream and just use chicken broth for the gravy. You can also use less cheese or opt for a lower-fat cheese alternative. Serve with plenty of steamed vegetables on the side!
What Are The Best Ways to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. You can add a splash of chicken broth if the gravy thickens too much while storing.
Can I Prepare This Meal Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can season and cook the chicken ahead of time, as well as prepare the gravy. Just reheat everything in the skillet before serving, adding the cheese at the end so it melts fresh. Enjoy a quick and easy dinner!
