This tasty Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken features juicy chicken breasts topped with melted cheese and flavorful toppings like mushrooms and onions. It’s a simple dish that brings comfort and a bit of Texas flair to your dinner table!
There’s nothing better than a cheesy, hearty chicken meal on a busy night. I love serving it with mashed potatoes or a big side salad. It’s like a big hug on a plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you need a lower-fat option, turkey breasts work well too. Alternatively, you could use thighs for more flavor and tenderness.
Cheese: Pepper jack adds a nice kick. If you want something milder, Monterey Jack or even cheddar will work just fine. For a non-dairy option, try vegan cheese that melts well, or skip the cheese altogether!
Mushrooms: I used white or cremini mushrooms for the recipe. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, zucchini or bell peppers can be a delicious substitute, adding different flavors and textures.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness. If you’re vegetarian, replace it with vegetable broth. Homemade broth can elevate the flavor! Or simply use water in a pinch.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked Without Drying It Out?
To ensure juicy chicken, it’s key to monitor cooking times and heat. Start by browning the chicken in the skillet, which locks in moisture. Then, let it bake in the oven, covered if possible, to keep it from drying out. Always use a meat thermometer. Aim for 165°F to get it just right!
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) for even cooking.
- Brown each side of the chicken for about 4-5 minutes, but don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked in the skillet.
- Bake for just 10 minutes to finish cooking without overdoing it.
Easy Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 slices pepper jack cheese (or Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 35 minutes to get the dish ready. In no time, you’ll have a hearty and savory chicken dinner that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Season:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for the chicken later. While that’s heating up, grab a small bowl and mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This flavorful blend will be rubbed on both sides of the chicken breasts. Give them a good coating for maximum taste!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Now, take a large oven-safe skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned and almost cooked through. After that, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté them together for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions turn translucent and the mushrooms look browned and tender. This step adds fantastic flavor to your dish!
4. Add Garlic and Broth:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and allow it to cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth and add the butter. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet with a spoon to release any tasty browned bits—this is where a lot of flavor hides! Let this mixture simmer for about 2 minutes.
5. Combine and Top:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, gently laying them in the mushroom and onion mixture. Now, top each chicken breast with a slice of pepper jack cheese (or whichever cheese you’re using). This will melt beautifully while it bakes!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to hit an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and for the cheese to be all melty and delicious.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven and garnish the chicken with fresh chopped parsley. Serve this mouthwatering smothered chicken alongside mashed potatoes, green beans, or a crisp salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your homemade Texas Roadhouse delight!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can! Just make sure they are completely thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking. The best way to thaw chicken is overnight in the fridge or by placing them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a few hours.
What Can I Substitute for Pepper Jack Cheese?
If you prefer a milder flavor, Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese work great as alternatives. For a non-dairy option, look for a vegan cheese that melts well. The choice is yours based on your taste preference!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove. If the chicken seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help revive the moisture.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can get creative by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach along with the onions and mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the onions for a flavorful twist.
