There’s something truly irresistible about crispy chicken drenched in a savory mushroom and onion gravy, topped with melting Monterey Jack cheese. If you’ve ever craved that comforting Texas Roadhouse experience but prefer to savor it at home, you’re in luck! This Copycat Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe captures all those hearty flavors with simple ingredients and easy steps. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll be a new favorite on your dinner rotation!
Why You Should Make This Recipe
- Authentic restaurant taste at home: Recreate the iconic smothered chicken flavor without stepping foot outside your kitchen.
- Quick and easy prep: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish comes together faster than you’d expect.
- Comfort food classic: The rich buttery mushrooms and melting cheese make it satisfyingly cozy and soul-warming.
- Versatile and family-friendly: It pairs well with so many sides and is sure to please all ages, making weeknight dinner a breeze.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Every ingredient in this Copycat Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe plays its part to bring out layers of flavor and mouthwatering textures. From the juicy seasoned chicken to the buttery mushrooms and melty cheese, these simple essentials work harmoniously to create that unforgettable taste.
- Chicken breasts: Using large breasts sliced and pounded ensures even cooking and a tender bite every time.
- Seasoned salt: Adds a subtle savory kick; Lawry’s seasoned salt is a classic choice but feel free to use your favorite blend.
- Butter: It’s key for sautéing and adding rich flavor to the mushrooms and onions.
- Onions: Thinly sliced for sweet, caramelized notes that balance the dish wonderfully.
- Button mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add earthiness and a tender texture – brown them just right for extra depth.
- Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully over the chicken, creating that signature creamy finish; you can swap for cheddar, Swiss, or provolone if you like.
How to Make Copycat Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Placing each piece between sheets of plastic wrap and gently pounding them ensures an even thickness, which is the secret to perfectly cooked, tender chicken. Don’t forget to season generously with seasoned salt and ground black pepper—this simple seasoning builds the foundation of flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Mushrooms
Warm butter in a skillet over medium-low heat and add thinly sliced onions with a pinch of salt. This little trick helps draw out their natural sweetness as you sauté them gently for 3 to 4 minutes. Toss in the button mushrooms and cook until they start to brown and shrink down—those golden edges are packed with umami that elevates the entire dish. Once done, set them aside but keep their delicious pan juices handy.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
If your skillet needs a bit more fat, add a teaspoon of butter before adding your seasoned chicken. Cook the breasts without crowding the pan, so each piece gets a beautiful golden sear—about 6 to 8 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for 3 to 4 more minutes. This method locks in the juices and keeps the meat tender and flavorful.
Step 4: Top and Melt the Cheese
Now for the grand finale — pile the sautéed onions and mushrooms on top of each chicken cutlet, then generously sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese over everything. Turn off the heat and cover the pan briefly to allow the cheese to melt perfectly over that savory topping. You’re so close to a slice of smothered chicken heaven!
How to Serve Copycat Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives to brighten the rich flavors and add a pop of color. A little cracked black pepper on top compliments the seasoning beautifully and gives it that perfect restaurant-quality look and taste.
Side Dishes
This smothered chicken loves company! Classic mashed potatoes are a natural pairing to soak up all that buttery mushroom goodness. You could also serve with steamed green beans, a fresh garden salad, or even roasted corn on the cob for a complete, hearty meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken over creamy polenta or buttered egg noodles to soak up those savory juices. You can also slice the chicken and layer it on toasted baguette slices for a deconstructed smothered chicken crostini appetizer that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover smothered chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools down a bit before sealing to keep everything fresh and tasty.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance, you can freeze cooked smothered chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Just defrost overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover copycat Texas Roadhouse smothered chicken gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through. This helps keep the chicken juicy and prevents the cheese from drying out.
FAQs
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Can I use other types of cheese than Monterey Jack?
Absolutely! While Monterey Jack melts beautifully and has a mild flavor, you can substitute it with cheddar, Swiss, or provolone depending on your preference and what you have on hand.
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Is it necessary to pound the chicken breasts?
Pounding the chicken helps create an even thickness, which means it cooks more evenly and stays tender rather than drying out. It’s a simple step that really makes a difference in texture.
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Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it contains no flour or breading. Just double-check the seasoning blends you use to ensure no gluten-containing additives.
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What’s the best way to prevent overcooking the chicken?
Cooking the chicken in batches if needed and monitoring the time carefully—6 to 8 minutes per side on medium-low to medium heat—helps keep it juicy. Use a meat thermometer if you want to be precise; 165°F (74°C) is perfect.
Final Thoughts
When you want that cozy, mouthwatering feeling from a restaurant classic without leaving your home, this Copycat Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe delivers in spades. It’s easy, packed with flavor, and the kind of meal that makes everyone ask for seconds. Dig in, enjoy, and don’t be surprised if this one becomes an instant family favorite!
Print
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Copycat Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken recipe features tender, buttery chicken breasts topped with savory sautéed onions and mushrooms, finished with melted Monterey Jack cheese. It’s a flavorful, hearty dish perfect for a comforting dinner inspired by a classic steakhouse favorite.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt (such as Lawry’s)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter plus extra if needed
- Salt, to taste
Vegetables & Toppings
- 1 medium onion, cut into 1/4-inch slices
- 1/2 pound button mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 pound Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half horizontally to make them thinner. Place each piece between sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet until the thickness is uniform. This ensures even cooking. Season each piece with seasoned salt and ground black pepper on both sides.
- Sauté Onions and Mushrooms: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions with a two-finger pinch of salt and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until they begin to brown. Remove the cooked onions and mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: If the skillet is dry after removing the vegetables, add an additional teaspoon of butter. Place the chicken pieces into the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Cook the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes on one side without moving it to allow a nice sear. Flip and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Add Toppings and Melt Cheese: Once the chicken is cooked, top each piece with the sautéed onions, mushrooms, and a generous amount of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet or turn off the stove to allow the cheese to melt slowly without burning the chicken.
- Serve: Serve the smothered chicken hot, ideally with a side of mashed potatoes or fresh vegetables to complete the meal.
Notes
- To achieve juicier chicken, avoid overcooking; cook just until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Monterey Jack cheese can be substituted with cheddar, Swiss, or provolone cheese according to preference.
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin gently to avoid tearing the chicken when pounding it.
- If you prefer, deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth or white wine after cooking the chicken for extra flavor before adding the vegetables back.
