Easy Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you need a leaner option, consider using turkey breast cutlets. For a vegetarian version, try firm tofu or portobello mushrooms, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

Paprika: This adds a lovely flavor and color. If you’re out, smoked paprika can give an extra depth, or you can use chili powder for a kick. I find it’s best not to skip it entirely, as it really enhances the dish!

Onions and Mushrooms: Yellow onions add sweetness, while mushrooms give richness. If you don’t have mushrooms, feel free to substitute with bell peppers or zucchini. For onions, sweet onions will work nicely if yellow ones aren’t available.

Heavy Cream: This gives a luscious, creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter option, use half-and-half or even whole milk. For a non-dairy option, unsweetened almond milk with a little starch can be a good substitute, though it may not be as rich.

How Do I Cook Chicken So It’s Juicy and Tender?

Cooking chicken breasts correctly is key to keeping them juicy and tender. Here are my favorite tips:

• Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half horizontally if they’re thick. This helps them cook evenly.
• Always preheat your skillet nice and hot before adding the chicken. This ensures a good sear, locking in moisture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want to give each piece room to sear. If you have more chicken, cook in batches.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Pull them off the heat when they reach 165°F (74°C).

With these tips, your chicken will turn out perfect every time. Enjoy your cooking! 🍽️

Easy 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 black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and satisfying meal option. Let’s get cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven:

First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the dish.

2. Season the Chicken:

Take the chicken breasts and season both sides with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, as well as salt and pepper. This gives the chicken fantastic flavor right from the start!

3. Sear the Chicken:

Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they’re golden brown. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

4. Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and mushrooms. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they’ve softened and turned a lovely brown color.

5. Make the Gravy:

Sprinkle the flour over the onions and mushrooms, stirring to coat them well. This helps to thicken our sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.

6. Add the Broth:

Now, slowly whisk in the chicken broth while scraping up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. This is where all the flavor lives!

7. Stir in the Cream:

Add the heavy cream to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to thicken slightly—this will take about 3-5 minutes.

8. Return the Chicken:

Next, place the chicken breasts back in the skillet and spoon some of that creamy gravy over the top of each piece.

9. Add the Cheese:

Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken and gravy. This is where the magic happens when it melts!

10. Bake to Perfection:

Carefully move the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The chicken should be fully cooked (165°F/74°C) and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.

11. Garnish and Serve:

Once out of the oven, garnish your smothered chicken with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve it hot with mashed potatoes or your favorite sides for a complete meal!

Enjoy a warm, delicious plate of Texas Roadhouse-style smothered chicken right at home! It’s sure to become a family favorite!

FAQ for Easy Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option if you prefer darker meat. They’ll add even more flavor and remain juicy. Just make sure to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked through.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream for moisture if needed.

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken, sauté the vegetables, and make the gravy in advance. Simply store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat everything before combining and baking with cheese on top.

What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?

If you’d like a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, unsweetened almond milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch can work as well, though the texture may not be as creamy.