This Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken is a tasty dish featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with creamy gravy and melted cheese. It’s a flavor-packed meal that’s easy to love!
If you’re like me, the cheesy, saucy goodness makes every bite feel like a warm hug. I pair it with rice or a simple salad for a nice dinner—quick and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for keeping the dish lean. You can also use thighs for more flavor; just adjust cooking time slightly as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
Seasoned Salt: This adds great flavor! If you don’t have it, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to make your own seasoning blend.
Heavy Cream: While I love the richness of heavy cream, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version. If you’re watching calories, evaporated milk can work in a pinch too!
Mushrooms: They add earthiness, but if you’re not a fan, feel free to leave them out or substitute with zucchini for a different twist!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Juicy?
The trick to juicy chicken is not overcooking it. Start by seasoning well and dredging in flour to create a nice crust. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high and ensure the oil is hot before adding the chicken.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, checking for a golden brown color.
- If using thick breasts, you can cover the skillet to help them cook through without burning.
Letting them rest for a few minutes after cooking will also keep the juices in. Enjoy your cooking!
Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe Made Easy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons seasoned salt (like Cavender’s or a homemade blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Veggies and Sauce:
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes seasoning and cooking the chicken, followed by another 20 minutes making the sauce and completing the dish. Quick and so satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with seasoned salt and black pepper. This will give your chicken a flavorful base.
2. Dredge the Chicken:
Lightly coat each chicken breast in flour. Make sure to shake off any extra flour to keep it from clumping.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on their thickness. Once done, take the chicken out and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions, green bell peppers, and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and slightly caramelized, which brings out their natural sweetness.
5. Deglaze the Pan:
Sprinkle the garlic powder over the vegetables and stir them around. Then pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, making sure to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom.
6. Make the Sauce:
Add the heavy cream to the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes so that it thickens nicely.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Now, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure to spoon the gravy and vegetables over them. This will add flavor to the chicken, too!
8. Melt the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top of the chicken. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Yum!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your smothered chicken with chopped fresh parsley if you like. Serve it hot with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your homemade Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor. Just remember they might take a little longer to cook through, so check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they’re done.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even evaporated milk. This will give you a creamy texture with fewer calories.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with thick slices of eggplant or firm tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your substitute is cooked through.
