Easy Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish because they stay juicy and absorb flavors well. You can use chicken thighs for an extra juicy option if you prefer.

Garlic Powder: This enhances the flavor easily. If you don’t have it, fresh minced garlic can work as a substitute—just use about 2-3 times the amount since it’s milder.

Mushrooms: Cremini or white mushrooms bring a nice earthy flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can swap them out for bell peppers or zucchini for a different twist!

Cheeses: Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese bring melting goodness. If you’re looking for lower fat options, you can use reduced-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if needed.

Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even Greek yogurt, but note that this will change the texture a bit.

How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Juicy?

Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can nail it! First, start by seasoning your chicken well; this enhances the flavor. Searing it on high heat creates a delicious crust while keeping the inside moist.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing; give each piece room to brown nicely.
• Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
• If using a skillet, you can finish cooking it in the oven, which ensures even cooking throughout.

Easy Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
• 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook, bringing your total to around 35-40 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough to impress guests!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is essential so the chicken bakes evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.

2. Season the Chicken:

In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with this flavorful mixture. This will add a lovely depth to your chicken.

3. Sear the Chicken:

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This creates a nice crust! Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

4. Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same skillet, melt the butter. When it’s bubbling, add the thinly sliced onions. Cook them until they are translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, cooking everything until the mushrooms are tender and browned, about 5-6 minutes.

5. Create the Creamy Sauce:

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring everything to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

6. Combine and Add Cheese:

Return the golden chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of that delicious sauce over the top. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the chicken, making it extra scrumptious!

7. Bake and Serve:

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it—when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly, it’s perfect! Once it’s done, take it out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions, and serve hot.

Enjoy your juicy, cheesy, and flavorful Texas Roadhouse style smothered chicken with your favorite sides like creamy mashed potatoes or steamed veggies!

FAQ for Easy Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?

Yes, you can, but it’s important to fully thaw the chicken first! Ideally, place it in the refrigerator overnight, or if you need it quicker, use the cold water method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water until thawed. Pat it dry before cooking to ensure a good sear.

What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind that yogurt will give it a tangy flavor, while half-and-half will slightly change the rich creaminess of the dish.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop gently, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it gets too thick!

Can I Add Other Vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the onions and mushrooms for added flavor and texture!