Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat Recipe

Craving the famous Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken but don't feel like going out? Well, you're in luck! This copycat recipe brings the magic of that delicious stuffed chicken straight to your kitchen. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with a rich, creamy cheese filling, and baked to perfection, giving you restaurant-quality flavor at home. Get ready to wow your family or guests with this irresistible dish. Read on for the full recipe, tips, and tricks to make sure you nail it every time!

What is Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken?

Ruth’s Chris is known for their luxurious steakhouse experience, but their stuffed chicken has earned a devoted following. This dish features tender, boneless chicken breasts stuffed with a decadent cream cheese filling, spiced and seasoned to perfection. The result is a flavor-packed, juicy chicken dish with a creamy center that melts in your mouth. It's one of those show-stopping dishes that looks and tastes like it took hours to make, but with this step-by-step guide, you’ll find it’s easier than you think.

Ingredients List for Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken

The key to making this stuffed chicken is using the right combination of ingredients that mirror the flavors at Ruth's Chris. Here's what you'll need:

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for searing)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar preferred)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Seasoned Breading (optional):

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for a crunchy crust)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon melted butter

Substitutions and Variations

Want to switch it up a little? No problem. Here are some variations and substitutions to try:

1. Cheese Varieties: If cheddar isn’t your thing, you can use Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a pepper jack for a spicier kick.
2. Low-Fat Option: Swap out the regular cream cheese for a low-fat version, and opt for part-skim mozzarella to lighten up the recipe.
3. Gluten-Free: Skip the panko breadcrumbs if you're avoiding gluten, or use gluten-free breadcrumbs as a substitute for the crispy topping.
4. Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with herbs. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even dill can add a different but delicious flavor profile.
5. Bacon-Lovers Option: Add crumbled cooked bacon into the cheese filling for a salty, savory twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to cook? Let’s break this down step by step so you can master this stuffed chicken recipe on your first try.

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure the chicken cooks evenly and comes out juicy.

2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Carefully butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally but not all the way through. You want to create a pocket for the filling. After butterflying, season the inside and outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined and smooth. This filling should be thick but spreadable.

4. Stuff the Chicken

Using a spoon or small spatula, divide the cream cheese mixture between the two chicken breasts, filling the pockets you created earlier. Be generous, as this filling is the heart of the dish.

5. Secure the Chicken

If needed, use toothpicks to close up the chicken breasts to prevent the filling from leaking out while cooking.

6. Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken breast for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This will lock in the juices and add flavor. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.

7. (Optional) Add the Seasoned Breading

If you prefer a crunchy topping, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the Parmesan and melted butter. Sprinkle this over the top of the stuffed chicken breasts before baking.

8. Bake the Chicken

Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

9. Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes. This step is crucial to keep the chicken juicy. Remove the toothpicks before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making stuffed chicken isn’t hard, but a few common mistakes can affect the end result. Here’s how to avoid them:

1. Overstuffing the Chicken: While it’s tempting to load the chicken with filling, overstuffing can cause it to burst open during cooking. Stick to a moderate amount of filling to ensure the chicken stays intact.
2. Not Searing the Chicken: Skipping the searing step can lead to less flavorful chicken. Searing locks in moisture and gives the dish that professional, golden-brown look.
3. Under or Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Undercooking can be dangerous, while overcooking will dry out the chicken.
4. Skipping the Resting Time: Letting the chicken rest allows the juices to redistribute, making for a much juicier bite.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present your dish matters. Here’s how to elevate your Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken copycat recipe for a restaurant-worthy experience.

How to Serve Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken

Serve this rich, creamy stuffed chicken with sides that complement its bold flavors. Some great pairing options include:

• Mashed potatoes: A classic steakhouse side that goes perfectly with this dish.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables: Try asparagus, broccoli, or green beans for a fresh contrast.
• Rice or quinoa: These grains are a lighter option that soaks up the delicious flavors from the chicken.
• Garlic bread: Perfect for mopping up any extra cheese filling or sauce that may have spilled out during baking.

Presentation Ideas for Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken

• Slice and Serve: For an elegant presentation, slice the stuffed chicken breast on a diagonal, showing off the creamy filling inside.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, chives, or even a little grated Parmesan on top for extra flair.
• Plating Like a Pro: Serve the stuffed chicken atop a bed of mashed potatoes or with vegetables arranged around it in a visually pleasing way.

Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Recipe Tips

Here are a few expert tips to make sure your stuffed chicken is flawless:

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the stuffed chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a perfect option for dinner parties or busy weeknights.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, always use a meat thermometer. When it reads 165°F in the thickest part of the chicken, it's done.
• Let It Rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This ensures maximum flavor and juiciness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

While chicken thighs are juicier, they don’t hold the filling as well as chicken breasts. However, if you prefer thighs, you can still make this recipe by stuffing them and securing the filling with toothpicks.

How Do I Reheat Leftover Stuffed Chicken?

The best way to reheat stuffed chicken is in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the chicken juicy without drying it out.

Can I Freeze Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What Should I Do If My Filling Leaks Out?

If your filling leaks out, don’t worry! Simply spoon it back over the chicken before serving. It’ll still taste delicious.

Conclusion

There you have it: a complete guide to making Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken at home. This copycat recipe gives you all the luxurious flavors of the restaurant dish in a simple, approachable format. From the creamy cheese filling to the perfectly cooked chicken, you’ll be serving up a restaurant-worthy meal in no time. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get cooking! You won’t regret it.

Enjoy your Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken experience, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who love a good home-cooked gourmet meal!

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