This Easy Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken is a cozy dish featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with creamy, cheesy goodness. Perfect for dinner on a busy night!
I love how simple it is to whip up a restaurant favorite at home. Just grill the chicken, add toppings, and bake! It’s like having a Texas Roadhouse feast in my own kitchen! 🐔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless is best for a tender bite. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a delicious alternative! They stay juicy and have a richer flavor.
Cheese: Monterey Jack adds creaminess. If you don’t have it, cheddar or a cheese blend works well, too. For a twist, try pepper jack for a little heat!
Broth: Beef broth gives a rich depth. You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind, the flavor will change slightly.
Mushrooms & Onions: Fresh is always preferable but if you don’t have fresh mushrooms, canned ones can work in a pinch! You can also swap onions for shallots for a milder flavor.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken in This Recipe?
Cooking the chicken to perfection is key to this dish. Start by searing it in oil for a crispy, golden exterior. Here’s how:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps create a nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet—cook in batches if necessary, so each piece gets that beautiful sear.
- Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This keeps it juicy!
Following these tips will ensure your smothered chicken is not only tasty but also the star of your dinner table!
Easy 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 pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or mixed cheese blend)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes approximately 15-20 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for baking. In total, you should set aside about 40-45 minutes to make this scrumptious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), so it’s hot and ready for your amazing chicken.
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Rub this spice mixture evenly over the chicken breasts to infuse them with flavor.
3. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they become golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and diced onions, cooking them until they are tender and nicely browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. Make the Sauce:
Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and onions, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Then, gradually whisk in the beef broth and heavy cream, allowing the mixture to cook and thicken for about 3-5 minutes.
6. Combine and Top with Cheese:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, and spoon some of the sauce over the top of each piece. Next, sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over all the chicken breasts.
7. Bake the Dish:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a touch of color and flavor. Serve this delicious smothered chicken warm, with some yummy mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables to complete your meal.
Enjoy your Texas Roadhouse style smothered chicken—rich, cheesy, and bursting with flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While this recipe works best with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness of the meat.
Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
Yes! To lighten it up, you can use reduced-fat cheese and substitute the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative like milk or non-dairy cream. You can also load up on more veggies, such as bell peppers or spinach, to boost the nutrition.
What Should I Serve This Dish With?
This smothered chicken is delicious served over mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta to soak up the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, consider serving it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy. Enjoy it as a quick lunch or dinner option!
