Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken with Jack Cheese

Ingredients

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 4–6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons chicken broth or water

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken:
   Pat the chicken breasts dry. If they are very thick, gently pound them to an even thickness so they cook evenly.
2. Season:
   Season both sides of the chicken with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
3. Cook the chicken:
   Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
4. Sauté the vegetables:
   Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Add the sliced onions and mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and lightly browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
5. Deglaze the pan:
   Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
6. Smother the chicken:
   Return the chicken to the skillet. Top each breast with the sautéed mushrooms and onions, followed by the crumbled bacon and shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
7. Melt the cheese:
   Place the skillet under a preheated broiler for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly. Alternatively, cover the skillet with a lid over low heat until the cheese melts.
8. Serve:
   Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or your favorite side dishes.

Tips

• Use chicken breasts of similar thickness so they cook evenly.
• Monterey Jack gives the dish a smooth, creamy melt, but Pepper Jack can be used for a little extra heat.
• Do not overcook the chicken; cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• For extra flavor, prepare the bacon ahead of time and use a little of the bacon drippings when sautéing the mushrooms and onions.