This Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken is a tasty dish featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with creamy gravy, melted cheese, and savory mushrooms. It’s comfort food at its best!
What’s not to love about chicken smothered in yummy flavors? I like to serve it with mashed potatoes or a simple salad for a complete meal. It’s easy and always a hit with my family! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts keep it simple and tender. If you want to change it up, you can use thighs for a juicier bite or even grilled chicken if you’re short on time.
Mushrooms: White mushrooms give a nice earthiness to the dish. If you can’t find them, try using cremini or even dried mushrooms rehydrated in warm water for extra flavor.
Cheese: Monterey Jack is creamy and melts well, but mozzarella works too! For a sharper taste, consider using cheddar. Dairy-free cheese can substitute if you’re avoiding dairy.
Heavy Cream: This makes the gravy rich. If you want a lighter version, feel free to use half-and-half or almond milk, but the texture may change a little.
How Do You Get the Chicken Cooked Perfectly?
The key to juicy chicken is not to overcook it. Searing the chicken first helps lock in moisture. Here are some tips:
- Use medium-high heat to get a good sear, which takes about 4-5 minutes per side.
- After baking, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and the best texture.
- If you’re unsure, a meat thermometer is a great tool to avoid overcooking.
Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil)
- For the Gravy:
- 8 oz white mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes in total, including cooking and baking time. You’ll have everything ready to serve in about 40 minutes—perfect for a quick and hearty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, take the chicken breasts and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to infuse flavor. This will set the stage for a delicious dish!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. When hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them until they turn golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add your sliced mushrooms and onions. Sauté them until they soften and start to brown—this should take about 5-7 minutes. When they’re ready, add minced garlic and cook for another minute to bring out its flavor!
4. Make the Gravy:
Next, sprinkle the flour over the mushroom and onion mixture, stirring well to coat everything. Cook for 1-2 minutes to get rid of any raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid any lumps. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it thicken for about 3-5 minutes.
5. Add Cream and Seasoning:
Stir in the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. This will give you a rich and creamy gravy!
6. Assemble the Chicken Dish:
Take the seared chicken breasts and return them to the skillet, or simply transfer everything to an oven-safe dish. Spoon the delicious gravy over the chicken to coat it nicely.
7. Add Cheese and Bake:
Finally, evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over each chicken breast. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve hot. This smothered chicken is fantastic with mashed potatoes or your favorite veggies. Enjoy your hearty, homemade meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight or submerge it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for quicker thawing.
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 whole milk. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut milk or almond milk, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Smothered Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the gravy for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so everything is tender and delicious!
