This Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken is a tasty dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with melted cheese and creamy gravy. It’s easy to make and full of flavor!
You’ll love how simple it is to cook at home! I often pair it with some mashed potatoes and steamed veggies. It’s like bringing the restaurant right to my kitchen! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. If you prefer dark meat, use boneless thighs instead. They stay juicy and have a richer flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or replace it with whole milk. If you’re avoiding dairy, try coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Cheese: I love using Monterey Jack because it melts beautifully. Cheddar is also a great choice for more flavor. If you’re lactose intolerant, dairy-free cheese options are widely available and can work just as well.
Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add great flavor, but if you’re not a fan, feel free to leave them out or substitute with spinach or bell peppers for a different taste.
How Do I Get My Chicken Golden Brown and Cooked Just Right?
Browning the chicken properly is key to flavor. Here’s how to ensure your chicken turns out perfect:
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high heat before adding oil. This keeps the chicken from sticking and promotes even cooking.
- Let the chicken cook without moving it for the first 5-6 minutes. This helps achieve that nice golden crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. It should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe.
Following these steps will help you get the best texture and flavor for your chicken!
Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for thickening)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes getting everything ready and about 20 minutes cooking the chicken and making that delicious gravy. It’s perfect for a quick dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this blend evenly on both sides of each chicken breast. This seasoning will give your chicken wonderful flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and fully cooked (check for an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm on a plate.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms are soft. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Gravy:
To the skillet, pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits that stuck to the bottom. These bits are packed with flavor! Stir in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer.
5. Optional Thickening:
If you’d like a thicker gravy, melt the butter in a separate small pan, then stir in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then whisk this roux into the simmering gravy. Continue to stir until it thickens up to your liking.
6. Assemble the Dish:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the creamy gravy, onions, and mushrooms over the top. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly across the chicken.
7. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything cook on low heat for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
8. Serve:
Remove from heat and garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with wild rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!
This recipe brings the creamy, cheesy goodness of Texas Roadhouse’s smothered chicken right into your home kitchen, so dig in and enjoy! 🍽️
FAQ for Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Monterey Jack is a great choice for its melting qualities, you can substitute it with cheddar, gouda, or even a blend of your favorites. Just make sure the cheese melts well for that creamy texture.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No problem! You can use vegetable broth or even water in a pinch, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor. For added richness, you could also mix in a little soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can! You can season and cook the chicken up to a day in advance, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and make the gravy fresh. Just be sure not to overcook the chicken during reheating!
How Do 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, adding a splash of cream or broth if the gravy thickens too much during storage.
