Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat Recipe

If you've ever been to Ruth’s Chris Steak House, you know that their stuffed chicken is one of the most popular and delicious items on the menu. It's juicy, creamy, flavorful, and downright irresistible. What if I told you that you can make a copycat version of this beloved dish right at home? Yes, you heard that right! This Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken copycat recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it tastes just as amazing as the restaurant version, if not better.

In this article, we’ll walk you through every step of the process to ensure that your stuffed chicken is seasoned perfectly, cooked to juicy perfection, and filled with that creamy, cheesy goodness you crave. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this mouthwatering journey.

What is Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken?

Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken is a rich and decadent dish where juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with a flavorful combination of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and savory seasonings. The chicken is seared until golden brown and then baked to perfection. The result is a crispy exterior and a creamy, cheesy filling that bursts with flavor with every bite. It's a great recipe for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving a restaurant-quality meal without leaving home.

Ingredients List for Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken

To recreate this famous dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s a complete list:

• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, as they are easy to stuff and cook evenly.
• Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese makes the perfect base for the creamy filling.
• Cheddar cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar cheese adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the filling.
• Ranch seasoning mix: Adds a tangy, herby kick to the filling.
• Garlic powder: For a subtle hint of garlic flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
• Paprika: Enhances the flavor and gives a lovely color to the chicken.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the chicken.
• Olive oil: For searing the chicken and getting that golden brown crust.
• Fresh parsley (optional): To garnish and add a fresh, vibrant touch.

These ingredients work in harmony to give you a dish that’s cheesy, flavorful, and simply unforgettable. Keep in mind that the key to making a great stuffed chicken lies in balancing the flavors in the filling and ensuring the chicken is seasoned and cooked properly.

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of this copycat recipe is its versatility. If you need to make substitutions or want to add your own twist, feel free to experiment with these ideas:

• Cheese options: While cheddar is commonly used in this recipe, you can swap it for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick.
• Seasonings: Feel free to use Italian seasoning, Cajun spices, or your favorite herbs to give the filling a unique flavor profile.
• Low-fat alternatives: Use low-fat cream cheese or reduced-fat cheddar cheese if you’re looking to make a lighter version of this dish.
• Stuffed chicken with spinach: For a healthier variation, add fresh spinach leaves to the filling mixture. Spinach will complement the cream cheese nicely and add some extra nutrients to the dish.

These substitutions and variations will allow you to customize this stuffed chicken recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs, making it a flexible dish for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by making the filling. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth. Set the filling mixture aside.

Step 2: Butterfly the Chicken Breasts

Next, you’ll want to butterfly your chicken breasts. Place a chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Hold the chicken steady with one hand and, using a sharp knife, slice horizontally into the thickest part of the breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open the chicken breast like a book to create a pocket for the filling.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

Take the filling mixture and spoon it generously into each butterflied chicken breast. Spread the filling evenly, but make sure to leave some room at the edges so that the filling doesn’t spill out during cooking. Fold the chicken breast over to enclose the filling, and press down gently to seal.

Step 4: Season the Chicken

Season the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasonings all over to ensure even coverage.

Step 5: Sear the Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. This will help lock in the juices and give the chicken a beautiful crust.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken

Once the chicken breasts are seared, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be fully cooked, and the filling should be hot and bubbly.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

After the chicken is done baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, ensuring that it stays moist and flavorful. Once rested, slice into the chicken breasts and serve.

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

Cooking Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken at home may seem intimidating, but it’s actually quite straightforward. Here’s a quick recap of the key steps:

1. Prepare the filling: Combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and seasonings.
2. Butterfly the chicken: Create a pocket in the chicken breasts for the filling.
3. Stuff the chicken: Fill each chicken breast with the creamy mixture.
4. Sear the chicken: Get a nice golden brown crust by searing it in a skillet.
5. Bake the chicken: Finish cooking the chicken in the oven until it’s fully cooked.

Follow these steps, and you’ll have a perfect Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken copycat on your dinner table in no time!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overstuffing the chicken: Be careful not to overstuff the chicken, as this can cause the filling to leak out during cooking. Leave enough room around the edges.
• Undercooking the chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Undercooked chicken is not safe to eat.
• Not letting the chicken rest: Letting the chicken rest after baking is crucial for retaining its moisture and juiciness.
• Skipping the sear: Don’t skip searing the chicken—it locks in moisture and adds a delightful texture to the dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving and presenting your Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken, a little attention to detail can make all the difference. Here are some ideas:

How to Serve Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken

• Side dishes: Serve this stuffed chicken with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple garden salad for a balanced meal. Garlic mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto are great options as well.
• Sauce options: Drizzle a light cream sauce or pan sauce over the chicken for added richness. A lemon-butter sauce or a garlic cream sauce pairs beautifully with the flavors of the stuffed chicken.

Presentation Ideas for Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken

• Slicing: For a restaurant-quality presentation, slice the chicken breast at an angle to reveal the creamy filling inside.
• Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color and added flavor.
• Plating: Serve the chicken on a clean, white plate with the filling exposed for a dramatic and appetizing presentation.

Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Recipe Tips

• Prepping ahead: You can prepare the stuffed chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
• Use toothpicks: If you're worried about the filling spilling out, you can use toothpicks to hold the chicken breasts together while they cook.
• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach to the filling for even more flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A: It’s best to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe, as they are easier to stuff and cook evenly.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can stuff the chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Q: Can I freeze Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed chicken before or after cooking. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but the oven will help maintain the crispy texture.

Conclusion

There you have it—your very own Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken copycat recipe! This dish is perfect for impressing dinner guests or enjoying a special meal with your family. By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to recreate the restaurant-quality stuffed chicken in the comfort of your own home. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy filling paired with perfectly seasoned chicken for a meal that’s bound to become a household favorite. Happy cooking!

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