This Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken is a real treat! Juicy grilled chicken is topped with crispy bacon, smothered in melted cheese and creamy gravy. Yum!
Making it is super simple! I love serving it with mashed potatoes or fresh veggies. It feels like a special dinner, but it’s quick enough for any night of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe as they cook evenly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for alternatives, you could use chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor or even turkey cutlets.
Bacon: I love the smoky flavor of bacon in this dish! If you’re avoiding pork, turkey bacon or even a vegan bacon alternative works well too. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure it crisps up nicely.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice here for its meltiness and flavor. If you prefer something different, Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses can add a unique twist. Vegan cheese can substitute if you’re keeping it dairy-free.
Gravy: Store-bought gravy is super convenient, but homemade gravy is often tastier. If you’re short on time, you can mix chicken or beef broth with a bit of flour or cornstarch to create a quick gravy.
How Do I Get Chicken That’s Juicy and Flavorful?
To achieve perfectly cooked chicken, follow these tips:
- Season the chicken generously with spices—don’t be shy!
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps create a nice sear.
- Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is super handy for this!
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
Taking these steps will ensure your chicken is bursting with flavor and delightfully tender! Enjoy your cooking!
Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe Made Easy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Toppings:
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup beef or chicken gravy (homemade or store-bought)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes for cooking, making the total time around 40-45 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, take the chicken breasts and season both sides generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This will give the chicken a tasty boost!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In that same skillet, add the bacon slices. Cook until crispy, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, remove the bacon, let it cool for a moment, and then chop it into bite-sized pieces. Leave some of the bacon grease in the pan for flavor!
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the sliced mushrooms and onions to the skillet with the leftover bacon grease. Sauté them until they’re soft and slightly caramelized, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This will add a wonderful flavor to your dish!
5. Assemble the Dish:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet, combining it with the mushrooms and onions. Pour the gravy over the top, making sure the chicken is well covered. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top followed by the chopped bacon.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, garnish your smothered chicken with fresh parsley if desired. Serve it hot with your favorite sides, like creamy mashed potatoes or crisp green beans, for a delightful meal!
Now enjoy your homemade Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken! It’s tasty and brings that restaurant feeling right to your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results. The best way to thaw is overnight in the refrigerator or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for a quicker option.
What Can I Use Instead of Bacon?
If you’re looking for a bacon alternative, turkey bacon or plant-based bacon work great! Just adjust the cooking time to ensure it crisps up nicely. You can also omit it entirely for a lighter dish.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything and store it in the refrigerator (before baking) for up to 2 days. Just cover it tightly. When ready to cook, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or while covered in the oven until heated through. Enjoy your meal again!
