Living in Texas, I ride a lot on the type of roads you describe, including lots of chip seal. Otherwise, I wouldn't get to ride at all.
Your best friend on no shoulder roads is your mirror and your ears. Chip seal is very noise so you can hear traffic way off. Be prepared to bale off to the side if conditions warrent, such as when it seems that two vehicles wil meet about where you are. Wear a colorful top and mount a slow moving vehicle sign, maybe even a blinking tail light. Be more cautious in sharp curves where a driver may not spot you from far off.
Not particularly relaxing if the traffic is heavy, but doable.
Riding frequently on chip seal, I purposely leave my tires a bit under inflated to smooth the ride a little.