Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken with Jack Cheese Recipe: Make It At Home!
If you’ve ever been to Texas Roadhouse, you know that their Smothered Chicken with Jack Cheese is one of the most satisfying items on the menu. Juicy grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms and onions, melted Monterey Jack cheese — all layered into one savory, mouthwatering dish. Whether you’re craving comfort food or planning a hearty dinner, this copycat Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken with Jack Cheese recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen.
In this article, you’ll learn how to recreate the iconic dish at home using fresh ingredients and easy steps. From marinade tips to topping tricks, we’ve got everything you need.
What is Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken?
Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken is a grilled chicken breast topped with sautéed onions, mushrooms, and melted Monterey Jack cheese. It’s flavorful, juicy, and filling — perfect for anyone looking for a low-carb, high-protein dinner option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
While the restaurant version is grilled to perfection and served with your choice of sides like mashed potatoes or seasoned rice, you can easily customize this copycat version to fit your dietary preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Smothered Chicken Recipe
- Restaurant-quality taste at home
- Simple ingredients and prep
- High in protein and low in carbs
- Customizable with different cheeses or veggies
- Great for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need for this Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken with Jack Cheese recipe:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for extra tenderness)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ons (Just Like Texas Roadhouse!)
- Crumbled bacon
- Jalapeño slices
- BBQ sauce drizzle
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken with Jack Cheese
This copycat recipe takes about 35–40 minutes total. Here’s how to get it just right:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add the chicken breasts and coat thoroughly.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for maximum flavor). If you’re short on time, even a quick 15-minute soak helps.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and mushrooms, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and sauté for 6–8 minutes until they are soft and slightly caramelized. Set aside.
Step 3: Grill or Pan-Sear the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can also grill the chicken outdoors for that smoky flavor.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed to get a nice sear.
Step 4: Smother and Melt
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place cooked chicken breasts in a baking dish. Top each with sautéed mushrooms and onions, then sprinkle a generous handful of Monterey Jack cheese over the top.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley or crispy bacon if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Best Sides for Smothered Chicken
Pair your smothered chicken with these Texas Roadhouse-inspired sides:
- Seasoned rice or garlic butter rice
- Mashed potatoes with brown gravy
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Texas-style dinner rolls
- Sweet corn or corn on the cob
- Side salad with ranch or honey mustard
Tips for Success
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for quicker, more even cooking.
- Use fresh mushrooms for the best flavor. Canned mushrooms can be used in a pinch but won’t deliver the same texture.
- Cheese swap: Monterey Jack melts beautifully, but you can substitute mozzarella, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicier version.
- Grill lovers: Fire up your BBQ and grill the chicken for those iconic grill marks and smoky flavor.
- Don’t skip the sautéed onions. They add sweetness and depth that make this dish restaurant-worthy.
How to Store Leftovers
Storage:
Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Microwave in 30-second bursts or reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
Freezing:
You can freeze cooked chicken (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Add fresh cheese and toppings when reheating for the best texture.
Is Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Healthy?
Absolutely! This dish is high in protein, moderate in fat, and low in carbs, making it keto-friendly and suitable for low-carb diets. Skip the butter and use olive oil for a lighter option, or pair with steamed veggies instead of starchy sides for a balanced meal.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken: FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier and work well. Just adjust the cooking time slightly (about 6–8 minutes per side).
What if I don’t have Monterey Jack cheese?
Try mozzarella, provolone, or Swiss. For a bolder flavor, go with sharp cheddar or pepper jack.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
You can cook the chicken in the air fryer, but for smothering with toppings and melting cheese, it’s best to finish in the oven or use the air fryer’s bake function.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a flavorful and satisfying dinner that tastes just like your favorite Texas Roadhouse dish, this Smothered Chicken with Jack Cheese recipe is the perfect solution. It’s packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and completely customizable. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes or steamed veggies, one bite will have you feeling like you’re dining out, right at your table.
So grab your skillet, fire up the oven, and treat your family to a restaurant-style dinner they’ll love!
