This Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken is a tasty dish featuring juicy chicken topped with savory sautéed onions and creamy gravy. It’s comforting and oh-so-yummy!
The best part? It takes minimal prep, so you can enjoy a flavorful dinner without all the fuss. Grab some sides like mashed potatoes and enjoy a deliciously cozy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, boneless thighs can be a great substitute for added flavor.
Seasoned Salt: This adds lots of flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can mix your own using regular salt, garlic powder, and paprika. It still works beautifully!
Onions: Large onions are essential for that caramelized sweetness. If you want a milder flavor, you can use sweet onions or even shallots!
Mushrooms: These are optional, but they add nice texture and flavor. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, feel free to leave them out or substitute with bell peppers.
Milk or Cream: Whole milk gives a lighter sauce, but you can use heavy cream for a richer gravy. Non-dairy options like almond or oat milk could also work well!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken breasts just right can be tricky! Here’s how to ensure they stay juicy:
- **Dry First:** Patting chicken dry helps it sear better.
- **Don’t Overcrowd:** Cook in batches if needed, so they sear instead of steam.
- **Check Temperature:** Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) when done.
- **Rest:** Let cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting; this keeps the juices in.
How Can I Make the Gravy Smooth and Delicious?
Making gravy can be intimidating, but here are some tips:
- **Whisk Constantly:** Once you add the broth and milk, stir continuously to prevent lumps.
- **Simmer:** Let the gravy simmer until thickened, which gives it time to develop flavor.
- **Season Well:** Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving; everyone’s preference is different!
With these tips and insights, you’ll have a delicious Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken meal on the table in no time! Enjoy!
Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for gravy)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and about 25 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be looking at around 40 minutes to have your delicious dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them cook nicely without steaming. Then, season both sides of the chicken breasts with seasoned salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Make sure the seasonings cover every bit!
2. Dredge the Chicken:
In a shallow dish, spread out 1/4 cup of flour. Lightly dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess. This will create a lovely crust when they cook.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the butter. Once it melts, toss in the sliced onions (and mushrooms if you’re using them). Sauté for about 8-10 minutes until the onions are soft and caramelized. This step really builds a lot of flavors!
5. Make the Gravy Base:
Next, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the sautéed onions and stir well to coat them. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour flavor.
6. Add Liquids for Gravy:
Now, slowly pour in the chicken broth and the milk (or cream), whisking continuously to avoid any lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it cook until the gravy thickens up, about 3-5 minutes. Keep stirring and watch it get perfectly creamy!
7. Season and Taste:
Give your gravy a taste test and add salt and pepper as needed. Adjust according to your preference because everyone loves different levels of seasoning!
8. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon that yummy gravy and sautéed onions over the top of the chicken, letting it heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like, and serve your Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken hot. It goes perfectly with mashed potatoes or your favorite sides. Enjoy your delightful meal!
This homemade version of Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken is sure to become a family favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking! The best way to thaw is overnight in the refrigerator or by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for quicker results.
What If I Don’t Have Seasoned Salt?
No problem! You can create your own mix by combining regular salt with a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit of paprika. This will give you a similar flavor profile for the chicken!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk can help refresh the gravy!
Can I Make This Dish Without Mushrooms?
Absolutely! Mushrooms are optional in this recipe. If you’re not a fan, simply leave them out. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition!
