Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken
Savor the comforting flavors of Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken, a hearty dish featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with caramelized onions, mushrooms, melted cheese, and a rich gravy. This easy-to-make recipe brings restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special meal.
Why Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken?
This dish combines tender, seasoned chicken with a savory onion-mushroom gravy and gooey melted cheese, creating a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. It’s simple enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough to serve guests, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Ingredients
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and lean.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory depth.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings warmth and color.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Enhances flavors.
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced: For sweet, caramelized flavor.
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Adds earthy richness.
• 4 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese: For melty goodness.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Creates a rich base for the gravy.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy.
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Forms the savory gravy.
Instructions
1. Season and Sear the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until soft and caramelized.
3. Make the Gravy: Sprinkle flour over the onions and mushrooms, stirring to coat. Cook for 1 minute. Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking constantly to create a smooth gravy. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
4. Assemble and Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange seared chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spoon the onion-mushroom mixture over the chicken. Place a slice of provolone or mozzarella on each breast. Pour the gravy over everything. Cover with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve: Remove from the oven, uncover, and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Tips for Perfect Smothered Chicken
• Even Searing: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking and a tender texture.
• Cheese Choice: Provolone adds a sharp, tangy flavor, while mozzarella offers a milder, stretchy melt. Choose based on preference.
• Thick Gravy: Whisk the broth in gradually to avoid lumps, and simmer until the gravy reaches your desired thickness.
• Caramelization: Cook onions and mushrooms slowly to bring out their natural sweetness.
FAQs
Can I Prepare Smothered Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes, sear the chicken and prepare the onion-mushroom gravy up to 1 day in advance. Store separately in the refrigerator. Assemble with cheese and bake when ready to serve, adding 5–10 minutes if cold.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Freeze the cooked chicken and gravy (without cheese) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat, add cheese, and bake as directed.
What Can I Serve with Smothered Chicken?
Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables like cauliflower or beets from Jean Baptiste’s late September planting guide. Serve with the Creamy Chicken and Carrot Spread or Perfect Cracker Recipe as appetizers, and complement with desserts like Cookie Butter Cheesecake Cups, Cherry Cheesecake Trifle, or Midnight Fudge Cake.
Can I Make It Dairy-Free?
Substitute butter with vegan butter or olive oil, and use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese entirely for a lighter dish. Ensure the chicken broth is dairy-free.
Can I Make It Gluten-Free?
Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (use 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) for the gravy.
Conclusion
Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken is a comforting, restaurant-inspired dish that combines juicy chicken, savory vegetables, and a rich gravy topped with melted cheese. Perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Serve it up and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal!