You walk into Texas Roadhouse, and yeah, the place smells like heaven grilled steak, fresh bread, and that buttery, garlicky something floating through the air. You’re probably here for a ribeye or maybe some ribs, but hold up. Let’s talk about the Herb Crusted Chicken one of the most underrated things on the menu.
Texas Roadhouse Herb Crusted Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Cast iron skillet
- Meat thermometer
- Mixing bowl
- Baking tray
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp thyme
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Heat oven to 350°F. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness.
- Season: Mix rosemary, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Coat chicken evenly.
- Sear: Heat a cast iron skillet over 400°F. Add olive oil and sear chicken for 3 minutes per side.
- Oven Finish: Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until internal temp reaches 165°F.
- Butter Glaze: Remove and brush with melted butter. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
NOTES & MENU HACKS
- Extra Crispy? Request a double sear when ordering at Texas Roadhouse!
- Best Side Pairings? Try seasoned rice, steamed broccoli, or mashed potatoes.
- Money-Saving Tip? Order the early dine menu for a discount on weeknights.
Why This Chicken Deserves Attention
First off, it’s not your sad, dry “healthy option” grilled chicken. It’s juicy, coated in a crispy herb crust, and packed with actual taste not just some black pepper and a prayer. They take a fresh chicken breast (yes, fresh not frozen) and press a mix of rosemary, oregano, thyme, and garlic right into the surface before slapping it on the grill.
Here’s the trick: they don’t just grill it and hope for the best. They sear it hot (we’re talking 400°F) to get that crispy, golden crust, then finish it in the oven so it stays moist inside. No sad, overcooked chicken happening here.
The First Bite: What to Expect
You cut in, and the outside has this light crunch from the herbs, but the inside is still soft. It’s got a little buttery sheen on top (they brush it with a bit of melted butter at the end yeah, that’s why it tastes so good). The herbs actually stick to the chicken instead of flaking off everywhere, which tells you it was done right.
How’s it taste? Kind of like a backyard barbecue, but fancier. The garlic comes through first, then the herbs, then a little saltiness from the butter. It’s not spicy, just savory and herby. No sauce needed it holds its own.
Pro Tips & Menu Hacks Herb Crusted Chicken
- Best Sides? Get the seasoned rice and the steamed broccoli that combo soaks up the juices perfectly. Avoid fries unless you like ‘em soft (Texas Roadhouse fries tend to lean that way).
- Want More Flavor? Ask for extra seasoning. The kitchen doesn’t always go heavy on it, and a little extra garlic never hurt anyone.
- Need More Sauce? They won’t say it’s on the menu, but you can get a side of ranch or honey mustard. Try dipping trust me.
- Best Time to Order? When they’re slammed at dinner. That’s when the grill’s running full-speed, and the chicken comes off extra fresh.
When It’s a Hit & When It’s a Miss
Most nights? It’s solid. The crust is there, the chicken’s tender, and everything’s right with the world. But if you come in during mid-afternoon when the kitchen’s slow, you might get a drier piece. It happens.
Also, portion sizes can be hit or miss. Some nights you’ll get a thick, juicy piece. Other nights? You might wonder if they grabbed a smaller breast by mistake.
Pro move: If yours looks small, politely ask for a swap. The servers know.
What Regulars Say
- “It’s my go-to when I don’t want steak.” (Fair.)
- “Tastes better than the BBQ Chicken, but it’s not as messy.”
- “I wish they’d make a sandwich out of it.” (Honestly, same.)
Final Thoughts: Worth Ordering?
Absolutely. It’s one of the best non-steak options on the menu flavorful, filling, and a little crispy in all the right places. Just make sure you get the right sides, ask for extra seasoning, and don’t show up at 3 PM expecting it to be perfect.
Would I order it over a steak? Nah. But if I wasn’t in a steak mood? 100% yes.
FAQ: The Stuff You Really Want to Know
Q: How much does it cost?
About $12 to $15, depending on location. Not bad for a filling meal.
Q: Can you get it in a combo?
Nope, but you can add a side of shrimp if you want some variety
Q: Is it always fresh?
If you come in during peak dinner hours, yes. Off-hours? Maybe.
Q: Can you get it with extra butter?
Oh yeah. Just ask.
