Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken

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I’ve always had a soft spot for comfort food, and Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken ranks high on that list. It’s everything you crave in one bite: juicy grilled chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, savory mushroom and onion gravy, seasoned just right, and perfect over a bed of mashed potatoes, rice, or even noodles. This dish gives off major restaurant-quality vibes, but it’s surprisingly easy to recreate at home—and trust me, once you do, you’ll wonder why you waited this long.

I’ve tested and tweaked this recipe until I got it just the way I like it—tender chicken that soaks up the rich, peppery sauce with every forkful. The key is in the balance: a hint of garlic, the earthiness of mushrooms, and a splash of cream to tie it all together. If you’re looking for a hearty dinner idea that feels like a warm hug, this is the one.

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Why You’ll Love This Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken

This dish delivers bold flavor and a cozy texture that makes it perfect for weeknights or when you’re feeding guests. It’s a satisfying, protein-packed meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. The creamy mushroom gravy is luscious without being heavy, and the seared chicken breast holds onto all its juicy goodness. Plus, it’s a one-pan recipe, making cleanup a breeze.

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What Kind of Mushrooms Should I Use?

You can’t go wrong with white button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms for this dish—they’re easy to find and hold their texture well. If you want to go a little fancy, baby bellas add a deeper, more robust flavor. Just make sure you don’t overcook them; you want them tender, not mushy.

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Options for Substitutions

No heavy cream? Try half-and-half or even evaporated milk for a lighter version. If you’re avoiding dairy, unsweetened coconut cream or a thick oat milk can give a similar texture. You can also use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor. For the gravy, a splash of white wine or chicken broth can elevate it even more.

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Ingredients for This Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – These are the main protein source and should be pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing flavor throughout.
• Garlic powder – Adds depth and a savory note to the chicken and gravy.
• Olive oil or butter – Used for searing the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
• Mushrooms – They bring an earthy flavor and meaty texture that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
• Onion – Sliced and cooked down to sweeten the sauce and add richness.
• All-purpose flour – Helps thicken the gravy to that classic creamy texture.
• Chicken broth – Acts as the base of the sauce, providing savory depth.
• Heavy cream – Adds richness and a silky texture to the mushroom gravy.
• Shredded mozzarella or jack cheese (optional) – For a cheesy topping if you want an extra indulgent finish.
• Fresh parsley – For garnish and a touch of color and freshness.

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Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. For even cooking, you can gently pound them to a uniform thickness.

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Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil or butter. Once hot, place the chicken in the pan and sear for about 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

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Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add a little more oil or butter if needed, then sauté sliced onions and mushrooms for about 6–8 minutes, until they’re soft, caramelized, and have released their moisture.

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Step 4: Make the Gravy

Sprinkle flour over the cooked mushrooms and onions, stir well, and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let it simmer and thicken.

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Step 5: Finish the Sauce

Stir in the heavy cream and continue simmering until the sauce is rich and velvety. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using cheese, stir it in now until melted and smooth.

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Step 6: Return Chicken to the Pan

Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning sauce and mushrooms over the top. Cover with a lid and let everything simmer together for 3–5 more minutes so the flavors meld.

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Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or rice to soak up all that delicious gravy.

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How Long to Prepare the Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken

Prep Time: Most of your time will go into prepping the ingredients and pounding the chicken evenly. This takes about 10–15 minutes, especially if you’re slicing mushrooms and onions from scratch.

Cooking Time: Searing the chicken and cooking the vegetables and sauce will take another 25–30 minutes. Altogether, you’re looking at a total of about 40–45 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.

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Tips for Perfect Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken

• Pound your chicken breasts to even thickness to ensure consistent cooking.
• Don’t rush the mushroom and onion sauté step—this brings out their full flavor.
• Deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth after searing to pull up all the flavor bits.
• If using cheese, add it at the very end and cover to let it melt without breaking the sauce.
• Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after simmering to keep it juicy.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the chicken: This will dry it out. Keep an eye on it and use a thermometer if needed (165°F internal temp).
• Using too much flour: A little goes a long way. Too much will make the sauce overly thick and pasty.
• Skipping the seasoning: Layering your seasoning from the start ensures depth of flavor throughout.
• Not simmering the sauce long enough: This can leave it tasting flat or floury.
• Crowding the pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed to avoid steaming instead of searing.

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What to Serve With Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken?

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Perfect for soaking up the flavorful mushroom gravy. Add garlic or sour cream for extra richness.

2. Steamed Green Beans

A crisp, fresh contrast to the rich and creamy chicken.

3. Rice Pilaf

Fluffy rice with herbs and a little butter complements the sauce without overpowering it.

4. Buttered Egg Noodles

A simple yet comforting option that catches the sauce beautifully.

5. Texas Toast or Garlic Bread

For mopping up every last drop of gravy—highly recommended!

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Let the chicken cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain the best texture.

Freezer: You can freeze the smothered chicken for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Warm gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: ~390 kcal
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to ensure my chicken doesn’t dry out?

Use an instant-read thermometer and remove the chicken once it hits 165°F. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook everything, store it in the fridge, and reheat it later. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini would be great additions. Just sauté them with the onions and mushrooms.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream?

It gives the sauce richness, but you can substitute with half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative.

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Conclusion

Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken is the kind of meal that hits all the right notes—flavorful, hearty, and surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a casual date night, it’s a recipe that promises comfort and satisfaction in every bite. The creamy mushroom gravy, tender seared chicken, and customizable sides make this dish a timeless favorite. Once you try it, you’ll definitely be coming back for seconds.

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