Texas Roadhouse Herb Crusted Chicken

If you’ve ever dined at Texas Roadhouse, you know that their Herb Crusted Chicken is a crowd favorite. It’s tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. The good news? You can recreate this restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen with just a few simple ingredients. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also brings the beloved taste of Texas Roadhouse into your home. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Herb Crusted Chicken that will impress your family and friends!

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Texas Roadhouse Herb Crusted Chicken recipe is a reliable choice for several reasons. First, it uses straightforward ingredients that are easily accessible, meaning you won’t have to scour specialty stores to find what you need. Second, the step-by-step instructions are designed for cooks of all skill levels. Lastly, this dish is incredibly versatile, allowing you to pair it with a range of sides, making it perfect for any meal. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe will not disappoint.

Ingredient Rundown

To create this mouthwatering Texas Roadhouse Herb Crusted Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts – The star of the dish, providing a juicy base for the herb crust.
• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning – This blend adds a fragrant depth of flavor.
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder – For that much-loved garlicky kick.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon MSG (optional) – This can elevate the umami flavor if desired.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper – A touch of heat and spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika – Adds color and a subtle smokiness.
• 1 tablespoon canola oil – Used for cooking the chicken to perfection.
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted – For a rich, buttery finish to the dish.
• 1 lemon, halved – For a fresh squeeze of citrus that brightens the flavors.
• Fresh parsley for garnish – Adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

To prepare your Texas Roadhouse Herb Crusted Chicken, gather the following equipment:

• Large skillet – For pan-searing the chicken.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin – To pound the chicken breasts for even cooking.
• Mixing bowl – To combine the seasoning mix.
• Measuring spoons – For accurate measurements of the spices.
• Spatula or tongs – To flip the chicken in the skillet.
• Serving plate – For presenting your beautiful dish.

Texas Roadhouse Herb Crusted Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the boneless skinless chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1 inch thick. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly.

Step 2: Make the Herb Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, MSG (if using), black pepper, and paprika. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Drizzle the chicken breasts with canola oil and melted butter. Then, generously sprinkle the herb mixture over both sides of the chicken, pressing it in gently to adhere.

Step 4: Heat the Skillet

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a little more canola oil if needed to coat the bottom of the skillet.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side, or until golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook for another 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Add Lemon

During the last minute of cooking, squeeze half a lemon over the chicken for added flavor. You can also toss the squeezed lemon halves into the skillet for extra zest.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

Seasonal Adaptations

You can easily adapt this Texas Roadhouse Herb Crusted Chicken recipe to suit the seasons or your personal taste preferences:

• Summer: Serve with fresh grilled vegetables and a light salad.
• Fall: Pair with roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts for a cozy meal.
• Winter: Add a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for comfort.
• Spring: Serve with a refreshing citrus quinoa salad for a light and bright dish.

Pro Tips & Notes

• Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a nice sear.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning amounts to suit your taste.
• If you don’t have canola oil, any neutral oil will work.
• For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix for a few hours or overnight.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you have leftover Texas Roadhouse Herb Crusted Chicken, here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Cooling: Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Storing: Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Rewarming: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Quick Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What can I substitute for Italian seasoning?

If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can create your own blend using equal parts dried basil, oregano, and thyme.

Is it necessary to pound the chicken breasts?

Pounding the chicken breasts helps them cook evenly and prevents dryness, but if you prefer not to, you can simply adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes! You can freeze the cooked chicken. Just make sure it is cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before storing it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
• Creamy Tuscan Chicken
• Honey Garlic Salmon
• Parmesan Crusted Tilapia

Next Steps

Now that you have the recipe for Texas Roadhouse Herb Crusted Chicken in your arsenal, it’s time to put it to the test in your kitchen. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this beloved dish. Your family will be asking for seconds, and you’ll feel proud to serve up a homemade version of a restaurant classic. Happy cooking!