This Copycat Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken is a delicious dish packed with juicy chicken and topped with creamy gravy, mushrooms, and melted cheese. It’s like a warm hug on your plate!
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this cozy meal. I like to serve it with mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort dinner. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the base of this dish. If you prefer dark meat, boneless thighs work well, too—they add more flavor and tenderness.
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms are great for this recipe, but if you’re not a fan, you can substitute with bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream gives richness, you can use half and half for a lighter version or even a dairy-free cream if you’re avoiding dairy.
Cheese: Shredded Monterey Jack cheese is traditional, but mozzarella or cheddar will also melt beautifully, giving you similar delicious results.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Golden Brown?
Cooking the chicken to golden perfection is key for both flavor and presentation. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet! This helps to seal in the juices and ensures a nice crust.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; it can cause steaming instead of browning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Let it rest a few minutes after cooking for juicier bites!
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30-40 minutes for cooking and baking. So, you’re looking at a total of about 1 hour from start to finish. It’s a simple and satisfying meal perfect for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for the chicken later.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and season them on both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This combo adds great flavor!
3. Coat the Chicken:
Lightly coat each chicken breast with flour, shaking off any excess. This will help brown your chicken nicely.
4. Brown the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
5. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the remaining oil to the same skillet. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and onions, and sauté until they’re softened and golden, which will take about 5-7 minutes.
6. Make the Gravy:
Sprinkle approximately 2 tablespoons of flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook this mixture for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste.
7. Add Chicken Broth:
Gradually add the chicken broth while stirring constantly. This will help prevent lumps! Continue to cook until the gravy thickens.
8. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce is creamy and thickened beautifully.
9. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the browned chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the gravy over each piece.
10. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the chicken. Who doesn’t love cheesy goodness?
11. Bake:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
12. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve hot. Pair it with mashed potatoes or your favorite side dish for a fulfilling meal!
Enjoy your homemade Copycat Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken! It’s going to be a hit at your dinner table!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
You can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely before cooking. The best method is to place the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker option, you can submerge the sealed chicken in cold water for about an hour. Just remember to pat it dry before seasoning!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken with the gravy up to a day ahead. Just follow the instructions until the baking step, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake it as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
What Can I Serve With Smothered Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even steamed vegetables. For a lighter option, consider serving it over a bed of greens or with a side salad to balance the richness of the chicken.
