Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken

Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken brings juicy golden chicken breasts wrapped in creamy mushroom and onion gravy all bubbling beneath a layer of melted provolone. It is a homey dish that gets rave reviews from both adults and kids whenever it hits the dinner table. Perfect for when you want something savory and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

I made this for my family after a tough day and the aroma alone lifted everyone's mood. It has since become our go-to request on cold nights or when someone needs a bit of comfort food magic.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: choose boneless skinless for even cooking and easy serving
• Olive oil: helps achieve a beautiful golden sear on the chicken
• Garlic powder and paprika: add warmth and subtle spice select fresh spices for deeper flavor
• Salt and pepper: balance the seasoning always taste and adjust
• Onion: choose a medium yellow onion for its natural sweetness when caramelized
• Mushrooms: white or cremini both work aim for firm smooth caps with no soft spots
• Provolone cheese: melts into a creamy blanket over the dish go for the deli-sliced variety
• Butter: starts caramelizing the vegetables and makes the roux
• All-purpose flour: thickens the gravy sift first for smoothness
• Chicken broth: forms the base of the savory sauce opt for low-sodium if you want more control over seasoning

How to Make It

Prep and Season the Chicken:

Season chicken breasts on all sides with garlic powder paprika salt and pepper. Make sure to coat each piece evenly. Let the chicken sit for a couple of minutes for the seasoning to soak in a bit.

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. When the oil shimmers add the chicken in a single layer. Cook on one side for about 4 to 5 minutes without moving so a golden crust develops. Flip and repeat for the other side then transfer chicken to a plate. It will finish cooking in the oven so do not worry about the center being fully done at this point.

Caramelize the Onions and Mushrooms:

In the same pan reduce heat to medium and add the butter. As it melts add the thinly sliced onions and mushrooms. Stir every couple of minutes and let them soften and take on a deep golden brown color. This step can take about 8 to 10 minutes. Patience here builds a rich base for your sauce.

Create the Gravy:

Sprinkle flour over the caramelized mixture and stir until everything looks coated and pasty this is the roux. Let it cook for a minute to remove any raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while constantly whisking. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Taste for salt and pepper and adjust if needed.

Assemble and Bake:

While the oven preheats to 375 degrees place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish. Cover each with a mound of the onion-mushroom mixture. Top with a slice of provolone cheese. Pour the prepared gravy over the top making sure each piece gets smothered. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese has melted into gooey perfection.

My favorite part is always the onions once they caramelize and mingle with the melted cheese they bring a sweet earthy flavor that makes the whole dish irresistible. Once my daughter declared this her birthday dinner wish and the memory never fails to make me smile.

Flavor Boosters

For deeper flavor use portobello or shiitake mushrooms or sprinkle fresh thyme or sage on top before baking. A dash of white wine in the gravy adds a restaurant-worthy touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over buttery mashed potatoes or garlic rice to soak up extra gravy. This also makes an indulgent sandwich when served on a toasted brioche bun and pairs beautifully with a simple side of green beans.

Creative Twists

Swap provolone for mozzarella or a white cheddar for a bold twist. Try using zucchini or bell peppers in place of mushrooms for a summery version, or add holiday herbs for festive flair. You can assemble up to the baking step and freeze for a future easy meal.

This crowd-pleasing meal brings steakhouse comfort to your kitchen with little effort. Take your time on caramelizing the onions, and every bite will taste like a special occasion.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ How do I get the chicken extra juicy?

Properly searing the chicken locks in moisture. Avoid overcooking and bake just until done for the juiciest results.

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

A blend of provolone and mozzarella works well, or try Monterey Jack for a different melt and flavor profile.

→ What sides go well with this dish?

Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for balance.

→ Could I substitute the chicken breasts?

Chicken thighs work as a tasty alternative, just adjust cook time to ensure doneness.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven covered with foil at 350°F until heated through to keep cheese melty and chicken moist.