Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat offers a delightful way to bring the upscale flavors of a restaurant favorite right into your kitchen. This recipe elevates the simple chicken breast into a mouthwatering dish bursting with creamy, cheesy goodness. If you’ve ever dined at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse and experienced their scrumptious stuffed chicken, you’re in for a real treat with this copycat recipe!
Why Make This Recipe
Recreating Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken at home not only saves you money but also brings the joy of a gourmet meal to your dining table. It’s an excellent choice for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you simply want to indulge in a comforting dish. The creamy spinach and cheese stuffing pairs beautifully with juicy, seared chicken, making it a satisfying entrée that is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, and you can customize it to suit your taste.
How to Make Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken
Creating this delectable stuffed chicken is straightforward, and the end result is undeniably delicious. Let’s gather our ingredients and get started!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut pockets in each chicken breast to prepare for stuffing.
- In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
- Generously stuff each chicken pocket with the creamy mixture, ensuring each is filled with the delicious stuffing. Secure the openings with toothpicks to keep everything in place while cooking.
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear both sides of the stuffed chicken for about 3–4 minutes or until they develop a golden-brown color.
- Once seared, pour the low-sodium chicken broth around the chicken in the skillet. Drizzle with lemon juice for extra flavor, and then bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- After removing the chicken from the oven, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Pro Tips for Success with Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and good-quality cheese to enhance the flavors of the dish.
- Be Gentle with the Chicken: When cutting pockets in the chicken breasts, be careful not to slice all the way through.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on the size of your chicken breasts, cooking times may vary. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Experiment with Stuffing: Feel free to add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or even bacon bits to create your own twist on the filling.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking keeps it juicy and flavorful.
Flavor Variations for Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken
- Southern Style: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the filling for an aromatic twist.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor profile.
- Add Some Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the filling for added texture.
- Mushroom Medley: Sauté some mushrooms before mixing them into the stuffing for an earthy flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken
Serve your Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken with sides that complement its rich flavors. Here are a few ideas:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting bed for the stuffed chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: Bright, roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the chicken.
- Risotto: For an indulgent touch, consider pairing it with creamy risotto.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken
Leftovers can be conveniently stored in the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to cool, then place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutritional Components | Per Serving |
|———————–|————-|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 550mg |
FAQ About Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper stuffing.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken breast is the best way to check for doneness.
Can I substitute the cream cheese with another cheese?
Certainly! You can substitute cream cheese with ricotta cheese or cottage cheese for a lighter filling. However, the texture may vary slightly.
What can I serve this dish with other than mashed potatoes?
In addition to mashed potatoes, this dish pairs well with steamed asparagus, quinoa salad, or a fresh garden salad to complement its richness.
How do I prevent the chicken breasts from drying out?
To keep chicken moist, don’t overcook it. Bake it until just reached the safe internal temperature, and allow it to rest after cooking to let the juices redistribute.
Final Thoughts
Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat is an elegant yet approachable dish that brings the excitement of fine dining into your home kitchen. Whether you are feeding a hungry family or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe will have everyone raving about your cooking skills. Indulge in the creamy, cheesy filling, and enjoy the delightful journey of flavors with each bite. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and recreate this restaurant classic for a meal to remember!
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Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Bring the upscale flavors of Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse right into your kitchen with this creamy, cheesy stuffed chicken breast recipe.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut pockets in each chicken breast to prepare for stuffing.
- In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
- Generously stuff each chicken pocket with the creamy mixture and secure the openings with toothpicks.
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear both sides of the stuffed chicken for about 3–4 minutes or until golden brown.
- Pour the chicken broth around the chicken in the skillet and drizzle with lemon juice. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- After removing from the oven, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for best results. Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American