There’s a certain joy in recreating restaurant favorites right in your own kitchen, don’t you think? A few evenings ago, I found myself craving the luscious flavors of Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken. The blend of creamy goodness with a hint of fresh greenery had lingered in my thoughts like a tantalizing whisper. With a fridge stocked with ingredients, I decided to put a spin on this decadent dish, transforming it into something utterly delicious and easy to whip up on a weeknight.
Imagine your kitchen filled with the inviting aroma of searing chicken and melted cheese, as you stuff those tender breasts with a delightful concoction of cream cheese and fresh spinach. It’s an indulgent yet simple recipe that promises to impress your family or guests without spending hours at the stove. Plus, the added brightness from lemon juice and the savory notes of Parmesan make every bite a little celebration. Ready to recreate this delightful meal? Let’s get cooking!
Why Love This Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat?
Simplicity: The preparation process is easy, making it a perfect weeknight meal that anyone can tackle, regardless of cooking experience.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is packed with creamy, cheesy goodness balanced by the fresh spinach and zesty lemon.
Impressive Presentation: Stuffed chicken breasts look gourmet on the plate, making this dish an excellent choice for entertaining guests.
Versatile: Feel free to swap the spinach or cheese; this recipe adapts to your tastes and pantry staples!
Quick Cooking: On the table in just 30 minutes, this dish is a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you need something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family dinners or dinner parties, this dish consistently garners rave reviews, ensuring you’ll be asked to make it again!
Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star of the dish; ensure they’re pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
For the Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – This creamy base makes the filling rich and satisfying; you can use low-fat cream cheese if desired.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped – Adds a nutritious touch and vibrant color; feel free to substitute with kale for a bolder flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – Elevates the flavor profile; fresh minced garlic works too for an extra punch!
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully and adds that gooey texture we all love; can be replaced with cheddar for a different twist.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – Brings warmth and depth to the filling; mix in some fresh herbs if you have them for added freshness.
For Cooking
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Ideal for searing the chicken to a golden brown; avocado oil can be a healthy alternative.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – Keeps the chicken moist during baking and adds flavor; homemade broth works wonders for deeper taste.
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice – Brightens the dish and balances the richness; lime juice is a zesty substitute if you’re feeling adventurous.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Sprinkled on top for a savory finish; pecorino cheese can give a sharper flavor profile.
Dive into this Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat recipe and savor the delightful contrast of flavors and textures!
How to Make Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your chicken will bake evenly and reach a perfect juicy texture.
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Combine cream cheese, spinach, garlic powder, mozzarella cheese, and Italian seasoning in a bowl. Mix until creamy and well-blended—this delightful filling packs a flavorful punch!
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Cut a pocket in each chicken breast. Gently slice into the side to create a deep pocket, careful not to cut all the way through!
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Stuff each chicken breast with the cream cheese mixture generously. Ensure they’re filled well, allowing the creamy goodness to shine through every bite.
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Sear the stuffed chicken breasts in olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook until golden brown on both sides, approximately 4-5 minutes per side, creating a beautiful crust.
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Transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Pour the chicken broth and lemon juice over the top; this keeps the chicken moist while baking!
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Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for a savory finish. It adds a rich layer of flavor as it melts beautifully in the oven!
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. The perfect juicy result awaits!
Optional: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat breasts are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling (cream cheese, spinach, garlic powder, mozzarella, and Italian seasoning) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can stuff the chicken breasts and sear them, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer the chicken to a baking dish, pour the chicken broth and lemon juice over, sprinkle with Parmesan, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll still achieve that delicious, creamy goodness without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat?
Elevate your dining experience with heartwarming sides that complement the creamy, savory flavors of this delightful chicken dish.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes soak up juices beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying pairing.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender and flavorful, roasted asparagus adds a lovely crunch and vibrant color, balancing the richness of the chicken.
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Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty stuffed chicken.
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Zesty Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with fresh herbs and lemon zest offers a light, nutritious side that complements the dish’s flavors beautifully.
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Lemon Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans seasoned with garlic and a squeeze of lemon create a bright, zesty accompaniment to your meal.
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Chardonnay: This white wine pairs wonderfully with the lemon notes and creamy filling, enhancing the overall flavors of your delightful stuffed chicken.
Get ready to impress with these delicious side dishes that ensure a complete and satisfying meal!
How to Store and Freeze Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat
Fridge: Store any leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken moist and the flavors intact.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked stuffed chicken in airtight freezer bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the bags with the date for easy tracking!
Reheating: To reheat, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through (about 20 minutes). This ensures you retain that delightful texture.
Room Temperature: Always let the chicken cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents moisture buildup, which can make the chicken soggy over time.
Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to elevate your dish and cater to your cravings!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese and mozzarella with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cheese or coconut-based spread for a creamy texture without the dairy.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes to the stuffing mixture for a delightful heat that dances on your palate. It’s a simple yet tasty transformation!
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Extra Greens: Swap out spinach for kale or arugula, adding earthiness and nutrition to the filling. Both greens bring a unique character while still tasting fantastic.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the stuffing for an aromatic touch that brightens the flavor. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish to new heights!
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Stuffed with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the filling for a burst of tangy flavor that complements the creamy cheese. It’s a lovely addition that adds depth.
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Lemon Zest Addition: Sprinkling in some lemon zest into the filling can enhance the brightness, creating a refreshing flavor contrast that brings sunshine to your dish!
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Protein Twist: For a heartier option, add some cooked and crumbled sausage into the filling mix. This savory addition redefines the flavors while giving a satisfying bite.
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Mushroom Medley: Sauté some finely chopped mushrooms and mix them into the creamy stuffing for an earthy note that pairs beautifully with chicken. This adds a lovely texture as well!
Expert Tips for Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat
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Even Thickness: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness before stuffing. This ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy throughout the process.
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Avoid Overstuffing: Be generous but not excessive when filling the chicken. Overstuffing can lead to spills during cooking, making a mess and reducing the flavor concentrate!
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Searing Secrets: Sear the chicken in olive oil until golden brown; this locks in moisture and adds a beautiful crust. Don’t skip this step for the best Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken copycat result!
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality cheese truly elevate the flavors. Opting for fresh herbs or even homemade broth can take this dish to another level.
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Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C) internally. This ensures food safety while keeping your chicken tender and juicy.
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Rest Before Slicing: Let the stuffed chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing the overall flavor and texture!
Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken breasts should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts is essential for this recipe. It’s best if they are pounded to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking. This helps avoid dry spots while keeping your stuffed chicken moist and tender.
How long can I store leftover Stuffed Chicken Breasts in the refrigerator?
Very! You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the moisture and flavor of the chicken. Just make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up for storage.
Can I freeze the Stuffed Chicken Breasts?
Certainly! To freeze, place the cooked stuffed chicken in airtight freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months. I recommend labeling the bags with the date, ensuring you can enjoy them later without any confusion!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen Stuffed Chicken Breasts?
To ensure your chicken remains juicy and tender when reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the stuffed chicken loosely with foil and place it in the oven for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. This method prevents drying out, keeping all that delicious flavor intact.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of when making this dish?
Definitely! For those with dairy allergies, you can substitute the cream cheese and mozzarella with non-dairy alternatives like cashew cream or vegan cheese. Always check the ingredient labels to ensure they’re free from allergens. If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, ensure that all your ingredients, like the chicken broth, are gluten-free.
What should I do if the filling spills out while cooking?
No worries! To avoid spills, make sure you’re not overstuffing the chicken breasts. If it happens, just keep an eye on it while cooking. The melted cheese that escapes will still add flavor to your dish, and the juices will mix nicely in the baking dish!
Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Combine cream cheese, spinach, garlic powder, mozzarella cheese, and Italian seasoning in a bowl.
- Cut a pocket in each chicken breast.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the cream cheese mixture generously.
- Sear the stuffed chicken breasts in olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Pour the chicken broth and lemon juice over the top.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.