This Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken brings all the flavor straight to your kitchen! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with creamy gravy, cheese, and tasty mushrooms.
If you ask me, smothering the chicken is the best part—it’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds! Serve it with some mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a meal worth sharing… or not! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide a tender bite. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work great as a juicy alternative.
Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add depth and flavor. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, diced bell peppers or zucchini make delightful substitutes.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese gives that comforting finish. You can swap it for Monterey Jack for a creamier texture, or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant.
Chicken Broth: Store-bought is fine, but homemade broth offers richer flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken perfectly is all about timing and temperature. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat oil in the skillet until it’s hot before adding the chicken.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side. You want a nice golden crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Remember not to overcrowd the pan. This helps each piece sear nicely instead of steaming! Once cooked, let the chicken rest before serving for juicier results.
Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Copycat Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (white or cremini)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take you approximately 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend about 15 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the chicken, followed by another 15 minutes to make the sauce and bring everything together. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this colorful seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, giving them lots of flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet, cooking until they’re golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Then, toss in the sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté them until they are softened and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. This will create a wonderful base for your sauce!
4. Add Garlic:
Now, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute. Stir frequently until the garlic is fragrant—watch carefully so it doesn’t burn!
5. Make the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat everything nicely. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes to remove any raw flour taste.
6. Add Chicken Broth:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps forming. Bring this flavorful mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken for about 3-5 minutes. You want it to be nice and pourable!
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure they are well coated in that delicious mushroom and onion gravy. Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over each chicken breast.
8. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the skillet with a lid, and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese is bubbly, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the chicken hot, and enjoy it with mashed potatoes or your favorite side dish. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this copycat Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken! Your taste buds will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If mushrooms or onions aren’t your favorites, feel free to substitute with bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. Just make sure to sauté them until they are tender before making the gravy.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No worries! You can easily use vegetable broth or even water, but keep in mind that using broth will enhance the flavor of your sauce. If using water, adding a splash of soy sauce or bouillon can help boost the taste.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance! Cook them up to 2 days prior, refrigerate, and reheat on the stove over low heat. Just add a little water or broth to loosen up the sauce when reheating.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally for even heating!
