This Easy Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken is a tasty delight! It’s juicy chicken topped with savory mushrooms, onions, and a creamy sauce that just makes your taste buds dance.
You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up this comfort food. I love serving it with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up that yummy sauce. It’s a family favorite for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use chicken thighs, which stay juicy and flavorful.
Mushrooms: White or cremini mushrooms add a nice earthiness to the dish. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, you can replace them with bell peppers or zucchini for a twist.
Heavy Cream: This adds a creamy texture to the sauce. A good substitute is half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce might not be as rich.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred here to control the seasoning. If you’re in a pinch, you can use margarine or even olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds depth. If you need a low-sodium option, look for low-sodium broth, or use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken perfectly is key to this dish. Here’s how to keep your chicken tender and juicy:
- Start with room temperature chicken. Let it sit out for about 15 minutes before cooking.
- Don’t skip seasoning! Giving the chicken a good rub with salt, pepper, and spices will help lock in flavor.
- Cook over medium-high heat, and don’t crowd the skillet. This ensures even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temp of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute.
How Do I Achieve Creamy Mushroom Sauce?
To create a delicious, creamy sauce, follow these steps:
- Sauté the onions and mushrooms until they’re browned. This adds rich flavor.
- When you add flour, ensure it’s mixed well with the vegetables to avoid clumps. Cook it for a minute to remove the raw flavor.
- Gradually add the chicken broth while stirring continuously to keep the sauce smooth.
- Simmer until the sauce thickens, then add the cream for that rich, creamy finish!
Easy Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 8 oz white or cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious smothered chicken recipe will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and satisfying meal option for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Make sure to rub the seasoning into the meat for the best flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to keep warm.
3. Sauté the Onions:
Using the same skillet, add the butter. Once it’s melted, toss in the sliced onions. Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and start to become translucent.
4. Add the Mushrooms:
Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Continue to sauté for another 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and tender.
5. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. This will enhance the flavor of your sauce!
6. Create the Sauce Base:
Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom and onion mixture, stirring well to combine. Cook for another minute to get rid of the raw flour taste.
7. Make It Saucy:
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
8. Add Cream:
Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 2 minutes. This will make your sauce deliciously creamy and rich!
9. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, and spoon some of the mushroom and onion sauce over the top. Allow everything to simmer together for about 3-4 minutes, so the flavors meld beautifully.
10. Final Touch and Serve:
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve your easy Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or alongside your favorite side dish.
Enjoy your Easy Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken!
FAQ for Easy Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. For a quicker option, thaw in cold water, making sure they’re sealed in a bag. Cooking frozen chicken directly in the skillet can lead to uneven cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free substitute, consider using coconut cream or a non-dairy milk combined with a little cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to help restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat the chicken in the oven while warming up the sauce on the stovetop before serving. This way, your dish stays fresh and flavorful!
