This Easy Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken is a winner! Juicy grilled chicken topped with creamy mushroom and cheese sauce makes it so tasty. You’ll love every bite!
Honestly, it’s hard to resist the yummy cheese! I always make extra so I can sip that sauce with a spoon. 😋 It’s super simple to whip up for dinner without any fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe because they stay juicy. If you need a change, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor, or even turkey cutlets!
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms bring a lovely earthy taste. If you’re not a fan, try using canned mushrooms or leave them out. You can also switch to spinach for a different twist.
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack create a creamy, cheesy topping. If you want to mix it up, use Pepper Jack for a spicy kick or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Heavy Cream: The cream makes the sauce rich and delicious. You can substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter version or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Get the Chicken Cooked Just Right?
Cooking the chicken evenly is crucial for a juicy result. Here are some steps:
- Start with a preheated skillet to ensure that chicken sears nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; this helps achieve a perfect golden color.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps the juices locked in.
Following these tips will give you chicken that’s cooked to perfection every time!
Easy Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and around 20-25 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at about 40-45 minutes to have this delicious dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Then, season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. This adds great flavor right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You want them to reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the butter, allowing it to melt. Then, toss in the sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re tender and caramelized. This is when they start smelling really good! Add in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Make the Sauce:
Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to coat everything. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream (or half-and-half) while stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken for about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add Cheese:
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is nice and smooth.
6. Smother the Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and generously spoon the creamy mushroom cheese sauce over them. Let it heat for a couple of minutes so everything gets nice and cozy together.
7. Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your smothered chicken immediately, and pair it with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Texas Roadhouse-style Smothered Chicken!
FAQs for Easy Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken
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 thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing. This ensures even cooking!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works great as a substitute. Additionally, for a dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut milk or almond milk; just note that the flavor may vary a bit.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Cool any leftovers to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, we recommend warming gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore creaminess.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or even zucchini. Just make sure to cook them until they are tender, adding them in with the onions and mushrooms for maximum flavor!
