Name: Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
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

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Slightly Indulgent Yet Comforting Delight

Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and creamy dish that takes inspiration from the classic steakhouse favorite. It’s all about juicy chicken breast stuffed with a rich mixture of cream cheese, spinach, mozzarella, and Italian seasonings, then baked until perfectly tender. The result is a comforting and satisfying meal with a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Serve it for dinner with friends or family, and it’s sure to impress!

This dish strikes a balance between indulgent and wholesome, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating your family to something special on a weeknight, this stuffed chicken will shine on your table.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time:

Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: 35 min

How to Make Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken

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

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken bakes evenly and thoroughly.
Prepare the chicken: Carefully cut pockets into each chicken breast. Make sure not to cut all the way through; you want to create a nice little pocket for stuffing.
Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy.
Stuff the chicken: Generously fill each chicken pocket with the cream cheese mixture. Secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling contained as it cooks.
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear the stuffed chicken for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step adds beautiful color and flavor.
Bake the chicken: Pour the chicken broth around the chicken, drizzle with fresh lemon juice, and take it to the oven. Bake uncovered for about 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Finish and serve: Once you remove the chicken from the oven, sprinkle the tops with Parmesan cheese. Let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving to hold in the juices.

Pro Tips

Choosing the right chicken: Opt for thicker chicken breasts if possible. They tend to hold the filling better and stay juicier during cooking.
Avoiding dry chicken: Be mindful not to overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
Seasoning the chicken: For extra flavor, season the outside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before searing them.
Alternative fillings: Feel free to experiment with different fillings! Sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, or artichoke hearts can elevate the taste further.
Make-ahead option: You can prepare the stuffing in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to stuff and cook the chicken. This saves time on busy nights.
Cooking variations: If you’re short on time, consider cooking the stuffed chicken in an air fryer or pressure cooker for a quicker result—just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stuffed chicken is packed with creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite, making it an indulgent yet comforting option for dinner. The combination of flavors from the spinach, garlic, and Italian herbs make it exciting and flavorful, while the melty cheeses provide a satisfying and cozy texture.

Moreover, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow. With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip it up for a weeknight meal without much fuss. It adapts beautifully to various diets and occasions too; you can serve it with a refreshing side salad for a lighter meal or pair it with garlic bread and pasta for a heartier family dinner.

How to Serve Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken

Presentation matters when serving this dish. Consider plating the chicken on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add a pop of color. A side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad can complement the rich flavors beautifully.

As for drinks, a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir works wonderfully with the richness of the stuffed chicken. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with lemon or basil to refresh your palate.

How to Store Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken

Storing any leftovers should be straightforward! In the fridge, the stuffed chicken can last for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you want to keep it for longer, it freezes well too. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When stored this way, it can last for up to 3 months.

For thawing, simply move it to the fridge overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken

Mix and match cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavor profiles.
Add spices: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the filling.
Cook with care: Monitor the temperature of your chicken carefully to achieve that perfect juiciness without drying it out.

Variation

Vegan: Substitute the chicken with eggplant or portobello mushrooms and use a cashew or tofu-based cream cheese alternative.
Low-carb: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and use a low-carb cheese option.
Spicy: Add jalapeños or crushed red chili flakes to the cream cheese mixture for a spicy kick.

Nutrition Information:

(Serving Size: 1 piece | Calories: 415 | Protein: 32g | Carbs: 5g | Fat: 30g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g)
This recipe is rich in protein thanks to the chicken and cream cheese, making it a filling option. However, it’s also higher in fat, mainly from the cheese and olive oil, so it may be best enjoyed in moderation.

Storage and Reheating

To reheat leftovers, the best approach is to ensure they remain moist. You can microwave the chicken on a microwave-safe plate with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warm. Alternatively, place it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. If using a skillet, reheat over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it from drying out.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to adjust the stuffing by adding other vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers for an added flavor burst. You can also vary the herbs and seasonings to suit your taste, using fresh herbs if available.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cutting pockets too deep: Ensure you only slice a pocket, as cutting through entirely will cause the filling to leak out during cooking.
Skipping the resting time: Always let the chicken rest after baking. Skipping this can lead to dry chicken as the juices haven’t settled.
Overcrowding the pan: If you’re making multiple chicken breasts, avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary so they can sear properly.
Neglecting to secure the openings: Make sure to secure the chicken pockets well; otherwise, the filling will ooze out during cooking.

Serving Occasions

This stuffed chicken is versatile and can fit perfectly into various occasions. It’s an ideal choice for family gatherings, intimate dinner dates, or festive celebrations. Serve it as part of a holiday meal or a cozy weeknight dinner—the options are endless!

Why Make This Recipe

What sets Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken apart from other stuffed chicken dishes is its creamy, flavorful filling combined with the convenience of baking. It not only looks stunning on the plate but also offers a flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of tastes. This is one of those dishes that can amaze your guests without being overly complicated to prepare, making it the perfect blend of simple yet sumptuous.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed before you begin. Cooking from frozen will significantly increase your cooking time.
How can I tell when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s cooked through safely.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for variety.
Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
This recipe can be modified to accommodate various diets, including gluten-free and low-carb diets, by using appropriate substitutes.
Can I make the stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing in advance and store it in the fridge. Just stuff the chicken right before cooking!

Disclaimer

Nutrition facts are approximate and can vary depending on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Adjustments can also change the nutritional information. Always double-check with specific brands and measurements for accuracy.