Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat Recipe

If you’ve ever had the pleasure of dining at Ruth's Chris Steak House, you know their famous stuffed chicken is a fan-favorite dish. Juicy, flavorful, and filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture, it’s the perfect main course for any dinner party or special occasion. The best part? You can recreate this iconic dish right in your own kitchen! Follow along with this Ruth's Chris stuffed chicken copycat recipe, and prepare to impress your guests with a restaurant-worthy meal. Read on to discover how to make it, along with essential tips, substitutions, and variations to suit your taste.

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What is Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken?

Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken is a decadent dish featuring a tender chicken breast filled with a rich, creamy blend of cheeses and seasonings. Baked to perfection, it’s served hot, often alongside sides like mashed potatoes, asparagus, or a fresh salad. The combination of crisp golden chicken skin, juicy meat, and a savory, cheesy filling makes this dish a real crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re familiar with the original dish or trying it for the first time, this copycat recipe will not disappoint.

Ingredients List for Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken

For the stuffed chicken, you’ll need:

• 4 large chicken breasts (skin-on, boneless)
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, depending on preference)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for color)

Ingredients List for Breading (Optional)

While Ruth's Chris typically does not use breading in their stuffed chicken, some home cooks prefer the added texture of a light breadcrumb coating. If you’d like to add a crispy exterior to your stuffed chicken, you’ll need:

• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (for dusting)

Substitutions and Variations

There are several ways to tailor this Ruth's Chris stuffed chicken copycat recipe to fit your dietary needs or personal preferences. Here are some common substitutions and variations:

• Cheese Substitutions: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, feel free to swap it for Gouda, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. You can also use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter option.
• Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives can be added to the filling for extra flavor.
• Spices: For those who like a little heat, you can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture.
• Bacon-Wrapped Version: Want to take it up a notch? Wrap the stuffed chicken breasts in bacon before baking for added flavor and texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Simply omit the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you’re avoiding gluten.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Ruth's Chris stuffed chicken at home may sound intimidating, but the process is simpler than you think. Just follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the cheese filling by combining the softened cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley in a mixing bowl. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally through the middle, creating a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through the chicken breast; you just want to create a space for the filling.
4. Stuff the chicken by spooning a generous amount of the cheese mixture into each chicken breast. Use toothpicks to close the opening and secure the filling inside.
5. Optional breading: If you are using the breading method, coat each stuffed chicken breast in flour, dip in the beaten egg, and then roll in the Panko breadcrumb mixture.
6. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the stuffed chicken breasts skin-side down and sear for 3-4 minutes, until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
7. Bake the chicken: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to your prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Rest and serve: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before removing the toothpicks and serving.

How to Cook Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 375°F to ensure your chicken cooks evenly without drying out.
2. Prepare the Filling: Mix cream cheese, shredded cheeses, and herbs into a smooth, flavorful filling.
3. Prepare the Chicken: Slice a pocket into the thickest part of each chicken breast, careful not to cut through the other side.
4. Stuff the Chicken: Generously fill the pocket of each chicken breast with the cheesy mixture.
5. Sear the Chicken: A quick sear in a hot pan ensures the outside of the chicken is crispy while keeping the inside moist and juicy.
6. Bake Until Perfect: Finish the chicken in the oven until fully cooked through and golden brown.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overstuffing the Chicken: While it may be tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, overstuffing can cause the cheese to spill out during cooking.
• Not Searing the Chicken: Skipping the searing step can leave you with rubbery skin. The sear gives it that perfect crispy texture.
• Undercooking: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to avoid serving undercooked poultry.
• Not Letting the Chicken Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps keep the juices inside, making for a more succulent bite.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving, the Ruth's Chris stuffed chicken is the star of the plate. However, pairing it with the right sides and presenting it well can elevate the dish even more.

How to Serve Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken

• Classic Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp Caesar salad. The richness of the stuffed chicken pairs well with fresh, lighter sides.
• Low-Carb Options: If you’re watching carbs, try serving this stuffed chicken alongside roasted cauliflower or a zesty lemon asparagus.

Presentation Ideas for Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken

• Slice Before Serving: Slice the chicken diagonally to reveal the delicious, cheesy stuffing inside. This not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also makes it easier for your guests to eat.
• Drizzle with Sauce: For added flavor and a restaurant-style presentation, drizzle the chicken with a light herb butter sauce or a balsamic glaze.
• Garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add a pop of color to your plate.

Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken Recipe Tips

• Softening the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Securing the Filling: Use toothpicks to seal the chicken breasts securely, preventing the filling from spilling out.
• Cooking Time: Be mindful of the size of your chicken breasts—larger breasts may need a few more minutes in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the stuffed chicken up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready, sear and bake as directed.

Q: Can I freeze Ruth's Chris stuffed chicken?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed, uncooked chicken breasts in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and cook as instructed.

Q: What cheese works best for the filling?
A: A combination of cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan offers the perfect balance of creaminess and flavor, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Swiss or Gruyère.

Q: Can I make this recipe without skin-on chicken?
A: While skin-on chicken gives a crispy, flavorful exterior, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts as well. Just be sure to sear them for a golden-brown finish.

Conclusion

Ruth's Chris stuffed chicken is a timeless, mouth-watering dish that's surprisingly easy to make at home. With this copycat recipe, you’ll be able to serve up a restaurant-quality meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you stick to the classic version or try a fun variation, this stuffed chicken is perfect for any occasion. Now it’s your turn—grab your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade version of Ruth's Chris stuffed chicken!

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