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Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken with Jack Cheese is a hearty, comforting dinner that brings bold restaurant flavor straight into your home kitchen. This popular steakhouse-inspired chicken recipe features juicy pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a rich garlic cream sauce and finished with melted Jack cheese for a satisfying, indulgent meal.
Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or casual entertaining, this dish uses simple ingredients while delivering big flavor. It pairs well with classic American side dishes and feels special enough for guests without requiring complicated cooking techniques or expensive ingredients.
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If you’re searching for an easy skillet chicken recipe that feels indulgent, creamy, and crowd-pleasing, this Texas Roadhouse–style smothered chicken is a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with straightforward steps
- Restaurant-quality flavor using pantry staples
- Creamy, cheesy, and comforting without being complicated
- Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
- Ready in under 45 minutes
- Budget-conscious alternative to dining out
Ingredients Breakdown
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The lean protein base of the dish. They cook quickly, stay juicy when seared properly, and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully. Chicken thighs can be substituted for extra richness.
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• Shredded Jack Cheese – Melts smoothly and adds mild, creamy flavor without overpowering the dish. Monterey Jack is ideal, but Colby Jack or mozzarella can work as substitutes.
• Olive Oil – Used for searing the chicken, adding richness and helping develop a golden-brown crust. Avocado oil or vegetable oil can also be used.
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• Garlic – Adds bold aroma and savory depth to the sauce. Fresh minced garlic delivers the best flavor, though jarred garlic works if needed.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Forms the base of the sauce while keeping it flavorful but not overly salty. Using low-sodium broth allows better control over seasoning.
• Sour Cream – Creates the creamy texture of the sauce with a slight tang that balances the cheese and garlic. Greek yogurt can be substituted for a lighter option.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing all other flavors in the dish.
• Green Onions – Add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color for garnish.
• Paprika – Provides subtle warmth and visual appeal without adding heat.
Tips and Tricks for Best Results
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking
- Sear chicken over medium-high heat to lock in moisture
- Do not overcrowd the skillet to ensure proper browning
- Stir sour cream gently to prevent curdling
- Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving
Variations and Customizations
This smothered chicken recipe is easy to adapt to your taste preferences.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or onions for a classic steakhouse twist
- Use pepper jack cheese for a subtle spicy kick
- Stir cooked bacon bits into the sauce for extra richness
- Swap sour cream with heavy cream for a milder sauce
- Add a splash of white wine to the broth for depth
- Make it low-carb by serving with vegetables instead of starches
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks.
Side Dishes
- Mashed potatoes or baked potatoes
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Buttered corn
- Rice or egg noodles
Drinks
- Iced tea
- Lemonade
- Sparkling water
- Light white wine
Occasions
- Weeknight dinners
- Family gatherings
- Comfort food nights
- Casual entertaining
Storage Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave
- Add a splash of broth when reheating to loosen the sauce
- Freezing is not recommended due to the sour cream sauce
Popular Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. You can sear the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead, then bake with cheese just before serving.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Boneless chicken thighs work well and provide extra juiciness.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat moderate when adding sour cream and stir continuously.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it is mild. You can add heat with cayenne pepper or spicy cheese if desired.
Can I make this recipe in one pan?
Yes. This is a one-skillet meal that transitions easily from stovetop to oven.
Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken with Jack Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an oven-safe skillet if needed.
- Rub chicken breasts with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, scraping the pan to release browned bits. Reduce heat and stir in sour cream until smooth.
- Top each chicken breast with shredded Jack cheese. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and chicken reaches 165°F.
- Remove from oven and garnish with chopped green onions and paprika. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use an instant-read thermometer; chicken is done at 165°F
- For extra sauce, double the broth and sour cream
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor
- Great option for meal prep lunches
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