By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on December 31, 2023 | Last Updated on December 31, 2023
Texas Roadhouse smothered chicken is one of the most popular recipes at the Texas Roadhouse restaurant chain. The dish is comprised of juicy and tender chicken breasts that are smothered in a rich gravy made with flavorful ingredients.
This classic recipe is easy to make at home and is sure to become a family favorite.
What is Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken?
Texas Roadhouse is a popular American chain of casual dining restaurants that specializes in steaks and ribs. The first Texas Roadhouse location opened in Clarksville, Indiana, in 1993. The restaurant is known for its laid-back, Western-themed atmosphere, where patrons are greeted with buckets of peanuts and can throw the shells on the floor.
Texas Roadhouse smothered chicken is one of their classic dish that is popular in the American South. It consists of chicken breasts that are smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy.
The gravy is made with a mix of ingredients including butter, flour, chicken broth, garlic, onion, Worcestershire sauce, and a variety of herbs and spices. The result is a savory and comforting dish that is sure to please.
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What Does it Taste Like?
Texas Roadhouse smothered chicken is savory and comforting. The chicken is juicy and tender, while the gravy is rich and flavorful.
The herbs and spices provide an additional layer of complexity and flavor, making this dish irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 large chicken breast: The main protein source for the dish, providing a hearty and satisfying base.
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt (such as Lawry’s): Seasoned salt adds a flavorful blend of spices, enhancing the overall taste of the chicken and creating a well-seasoned and savory profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Black pepper contributes to the dish’s flavor by adding a mild spiciness and depth. It complements the seasoned salt in providing a well-rounded taste.
- 1/2 tablespoon butter (plus extra if needed): Butter is used for cooking the chicken and vegetables. It adds richness, helps with browning, and contributes a delicious buttery flavor to the dish.
- 1/2 medium onion, cut into 1/4-inch slices: Onions add a sweet and savory flavor to the dish. They also contribute a satisfying texture and aroma as they cook.
- A pinch of salt: This additional salt is used to season the onions and mushrooms, ensuring each component of the dish is well-seasoned.
- 1/4 pound button mushrooms, sliced: Mushrooms provide a savory and earthy flavor, adding depth to the overall taste of the dish. They also contribute a meaty texture.
- 2 tablespoons Monterey Jack cheese, shredded: The shredded Monterey Jack cheese is likely used as a smothering element, adding a creamy and cheesy layer to the dish. It helps bind the flavors together and provides a delightful gooey texture.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breast
Start by placing a large chicken breast on a clean cutting board. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is essential for achieving a crispy and golden-brown exterior.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of seasoned salt, such as Lawry’s, evenly over both sides of the chicken breast. Follow this with 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper, ensuring the seasoning is well-distributed for a balanced flavor profile.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Place a skillet over medium heat and add 1/2 tablespoon of butter. Allow the butter to melt and coat the bottom of the skillet evenly. If needed, you can add a little extra butter for richer flavor and to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Carefully lay the seasoned chicken breast in the hot skillet. Sear it for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side or until the chicken develops a golden-brown crust and cooks through. Use tongs to flip the chicken, ensuring both sides are cooked to perfection.
Step 5: Saute the Onions
While the chicken is cooking, cut 1/2 medium onion into 1/4-inch slices. After flipping the chicken, add the sliced onions to the skillet. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the onions to enhance their natural sweetness. Saute the onions until they become translucent and caramelized.
Step 6: Add Mushrooms
Once the onions are caramelized, add 1/4 pound of sliced button mushrooms to the skillet. Stir them into the onions, allowing the mushrooms to cook and release their moisture. This adds a delightful earthy flavor to the dish.
Step 7: Melt Monterey Jack Cheese
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the cooked chicken breast. Cover the skillet with a lid to allow the cheese to melt and become gooey. This step adds a creamy and cheesy element to the dish.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cheese has melted and the mushrooms are tender, your savory skillet chicken with mushrooms and onions is ready to be served. Plate the chicken breast with the sauteed mushrooms and onions on top, creating a delicious and visually appealing meal. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your homemade culinary creation!
Tips
– For a richer gravy, substitute half of the chicken broth with heavy cream or half-and-half.
– If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the gravy.
– To keep the chicken breasts from drying out, use a thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should be at least 165°F.
– Make the gravy in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
– To make the gravy ahead of time, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container and storing in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Information
What to Serve with Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken?
– Mashed potatoes
– Rice
– Baked beans
– Steamed vegetables
– Salad
– Biscuits
– Dinner rolls
How to Store Leftover Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken?
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The smothered chicken can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
What Other Substitute Can I Use in Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken?
– You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
– To make a lighter version, replace the butter with olive oil.
– For a dairy-free version, omit the butter and use a dairy-free alternative.
– You can use your favorite herbs and spices instead of the listed ones.
– To make a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with your favorite vegetables.
Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 large chicken breast
- 1/2 tablespoon butter plus extra if needed
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons Monterey Jack cheese shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt such as Lawry’s
- 1/2 medium onion cut into 1/4-inch slices
- 1/4 pound button mushrooms sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breast with seasoned salt and black pepper on both sides.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt the 1/2 tablespoon of butter. Add the seasoned chicken breast and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken breast. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook until the onions are softened and golden brown.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are tender.
- Place the cooked chicken breast back into the skillet with the onions and mushrooms.
- Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the chicken and vegetable mixture.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a richer gravy, substitute half of the chicken broth with heavy cream or half-and-half.
- If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the gravy.
- To keep the chicken breasts from drying out, use a thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should be at least 165°F.
- Make the gravy in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- To make the gravy ahead of time, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container and storing in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
Can I make Texas Roadhouse smothered chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Is Texas Roadhouse smothered chicken gluten-free?
Yes, it can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Can I make a lighter version of Texas Roadhouse smothered chicken?
Yes, you can make a lighter version by replacing the butter with olive oil.
Is Texas Roadhouse smothered chicken dairy-free?
Yes, it can be made dairy-free by omitting the butter and using a dairy-free alternative.
Conclusion
Texas Roadhouse smothered chicken is a classic dish that is popular in the American South. It consists of chicken breasts that are smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy.
The gravy is made with a mix of ingredients including butter, flour, chicken broth, garlic, onion, Worcestershire sauce, and a variety of herbs and spices.
The result is a savory and comforting dish that is sure to please. This recipe is easy to make at home and is sure to become a family favorite.
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more
