When it comes to indulgent dining, Ruth’s Chris Steak House is a name that never disappoints. One of their standout dishes, the stuffed chicken breast, is a masterpiece of flavor and comfort. This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich, creamy cheese stuffing that feels like a warm hug for your taste buds. It’s the kind of dish that turns a regular dinner into something unforgettable.
Stuffed Chicken Breast Ruth Chris Recipe
We are bringing the indulgent signature Stuffed Chicken Breast from Ruth’s Chris Steak House to your table. With its tender chicken and rich, creamy cheese stuffing, this recipe will elevate any dinner gathering. Let’s walk through the steps to make this irresistible dish.
Ingredients
Here’s what we’ll need:
For the Stuffed Chicken Breast:
- 4 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 8 oz (1 cup) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing
Optional Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 lemon, sliced into wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are smooth and well combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Prep the Chicken Breasts
- Place each chicken breast on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the thickest side of each breast without cutting all the way through.
- Season both the outside and inside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
- Spoon an even amount of the prepared cheese filling into each chicken breast pocket.
- Use toothpicks to secure the edges of the chicken breasts, ensuring the filling remains inside during cooking.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the stuffed chicken breasts on each side for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the skillet with the seared chicken into the oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve alongside lemon wedges for a bright flavor boost.
Cooking Timing Table
| Step | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Prepping the stuffing | 5 minutes |
| Preparing the chicken breasts | 10 minutes |
| Searing the chicken | 6-8 minutes |
| Baking in the oven | 20-25 minutes |
| Resting | 5 minutes |
Ingredients
To recreate the indulgent Stuffed Chicken Breast Ruth’s Chris Recipe, we’ll need a combination of fresh, quality ingredients for the chicken, creamy stuffing, and optional garnishes. Below is the detailed list you need to get started:
For The Chicken Breast
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each, pounded to an even thickness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
For The Stuffing
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Optional Garnishes
- Extra chopped parsley
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- A drizzle of garlic butter
This ingredient list ensures your stuffed chicken breast will have the signature flavors and textures that make it a standout dish.
Tools And Equipment
To recreate the Stuffed Chicken Breast Ruth’s Chris Recipe at home, the right tools and equipment are essential. These will not only simplify the preparation process but also ensure the dish mimics the restaurant-quality flavors and textures. Here’s what we need in our kitchen arsenal:
Essential Tools:
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: For slicing and preparing the chicken breast with precision.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for safe preparation of the chicken and herbs.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine and mix the creamy cheese stuffing until it’s perfectly smooth.
- Plastic Wrap: Helpful for flattening chicken breasts evenly without tearing the meat.
- Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin: Use this to gently pound the chicken into a uniform thickness.
- Toothpicks or Kitchen Twine: To secure the stuffed chicken and prevent the filling from leaking while cooking.
Cooking Equipment:
- Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-bottomed Pan: Ideal for searing the chicken to golden perfection before baking.
- Baking Dish: Use this to finish cooking the stuffed chicken in the oven, ensuring even heat distribution.
- Aluminum Foil: Helps cover the chicken during baking to retain moisture.
- Tongs: For turning the chicken breasts without tearing the stuffing seam.
Optional Add-ons:
- Zester or Fine Grater: For freshly grated Parmesan or lemon zest garnish.
- Pastry Brush: To apply a thin, even layer of garlic butter or olive oil for added flavor.
- Thermometer: Ensures the chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Tools and Their Importance:
| Tool Name | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Precise cutting for chicken and stuffing ingredients. |
| Cutting Board | Safe, stable surface for chopping and slicing. |
| Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin | To tenderize the chicken for easy stuffing. |
| Toothpicks/Kitchen Twine | Secure stuffing and maintain shape during cooking. |
| Cast Iron Skillet | Creates a flavorful, crisp sear before baking. |
| Thermometer | Ensures chicken is fully cooked to 165°F. |
By utilizing these tools and equipment, we can replicate the iconic stuffed chicken breast with ease and precision, making our cooking process smooth and the results restaurant-worthy.
Directions
Recreating the Stuffed Chicken Breast Ruth Chris Recipe at home is an engaging and gratifying process when broken into manageable steps. Let’s prepare, assemble, and cook this dish to rival any restaurant experience.
Prep
- Prepare the chicken breasts: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts on a cutting board. Use a sharp chef’s knife to carefully slice a pocket into the thicker side of each breast without cutting through.
- Pound the chicken: Cover each chicken breast with plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the breasts gently until they are evenly thick, about ½ inch.
- Season generously: Sprinkle each breast with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, ensuring even coverage on both sides.
- Prepare the cheese mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix until fully incorporated.
Assemble
- Stuff the chicken: Spoon the prepared cheese mixture into the pocket of each chicken breast. Be careful not to overfill; about 2-3 tablespoons per breast should suffice.
- Seal the pockets: Close the opening of each breast and secure it with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
Cook
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sear the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the stuffed chicken breasts seam-side up. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer to oven: Place the skillet in the preheated oven or transfer the chicken to a baking dish if your skillet isn’t oven-safe. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and garnish: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, and a drizzle of garlic butter if desired.
| Step | Temperature/Time | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Sear | 2-3 min per side (medium-high heat) | Ensure even golden crust without burning. |
| Bake | 375°F for 20-25 min | Internal temp should reach 165°F for safe consumption. |
| Rest | 5 min | Resting locks in juices and ensures tender chicken. |
Enjoy this rich and indulgent dish, just like Ruth’s Chris Steak House. The creamy stuffing paired with tender, golden-baked chicken makes every bite unforgettable.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing this Stuffed Chicken Breast Ruth Chris Recipe ahead of time can simplify dinner gatherings or weeknight meals. Follow our make-ahead strategies to save time while ensuring this dish remains flavorful and perfectly cooked:
1. Preparing the Cheese Stuffing in Advance
The cheese stuffing can be prepped up to 2 days in advance. Combine the cream cheese, sharp cheddar, Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, minced garlic, and optional red pepper flakes. Transfer the mixture into an airtight container, and store it in the fridge until you are ready to assemble the chicken.
2. Prepping the Chicken
- Slice and pound: Slice pockets into the chicken breasts and pound them to an even thickness. Place the prepared chicken breasts in an airtight container or tightly wrap them in plastic wrap.
- Season strategically: You can season the chicken before refrigerating it. Use a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Store it in the fridge for up to 1 day.
3. Assembling in Advance
After preparing the chicken and stuffing, you can fully assemble the stuffed chicken breasts:
- Stuff each breast with the cheese mixture and seal the edges with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Lay the prepared chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
4. Storing Options for Short-Term vs. Long-Term
Depending on your timeline, here is how to properly store:
| Storage Method | Preparation Step | How Long to Store |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Fully assembled chicken or just stuffing prepped | Up to 1 day |
| Freezer | Fully assembled chicken (wrap individually) | Up to 3 months |
When freezing, wrap each stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
5. Cooking from Cold or Frozen
- From the fridge: Allow the chicken to sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- From the freezer: Thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator, then follow the standard cooking steps in the recipe.
Implementing these make-ahead tips provides flexibility without compromising the signature rich flavors and textures of this Ruth’s Chris-inspired dish.
Serving Suggestions
When serving the Stuffed Chicken Breast Ruth’s Chris-style, the goal is to elevate the dining experience to match the luxurious flavors of the dish. Here are some Serving Suggestions to complement the creamy, cheesy stuffing and perfectly tender chicken:
1. Pairing with Side Dishes
For a balanced meal, consider pairing the stuffed chicken breast with flavorful and well-textured sides. Here are our top recommendations:
- Creamed Spinach: A rich, velvety side akin to Ruth’s Chris, perfect for adding more indulgence.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The buttery and garlicky notes harmonize with the creamy filling.
- Roasted Asparagus: The crisp texture and slightly charred flavor provide contrast.
- Caesar Salad: A fresh and tangy touch to cleanse the palate.
To simplify the pairing process, we’ve created a quick reference table:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Creamed Spinach | Matches the richness of the dish. |
| Garlic Mashed Potatoes | Adds a hearty, comforting element. |
| Roasted Asparagus | Balances with crunch and light smokiness. |
| Caesar Salad | Refreshes the palate with acidity and freshness. |
2. Garnishing the Chicken
Garnishing ties the dish together, creating visual appeal and an extra flavor layer. Here’s how to garnish effectively:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Add a generous drizzle of garlic butter for extra richness.
- Grate a bit of fresh Parmesan cheese over the tops before serving.
3. Beverage Pairings
Adding the right beverage enhances the dining experience. For this dish:
- White Wine: A Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy flavors.
- Red Wine: A light Pinot Noir pairs effortlessly with the robustness of the chicken.
- Sparkling Water or Lemonade: Keep it simple and refreshing for non-alcoholic options.
4. Presentation Tips
- Serve the chicken on a warm platter to retain heat and showcase the dish beautifully.
- Arrange the sides alongside or in small bowls to keep the plate clean and elegant.
- Slice the stuffed chicken breasts before serving to reveal the vibrant cheesy filling. This adds a “wow” factor to the presentation.
These serving suggestions ensure that every element of the meal enhances the stuffed chicken breast, creating a well-rounded and memorable dining experience.
Conclusion
Recreating the stuffed chicken breast inspired by Ruth’s Chris Steak House allows us to bring a touch of indulgence to our own kitchens. With its creamy cheese filling and perfectly seasoned chicken, this dish transforms any meal into a special occasion.
By following the recipe, using the recommended tools, and incorporating thoughtful garnishes and sides, we can achieve a restaurant-quality experience at home. Whether it’s for a dinner party or a cozy night in, this stuffed chicken breast is sure to impress. Let’s savor every bite and enjoy the satisfaction of mastering such a flavorful masterpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken breast unique?
Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken breast stands out due to its creamy cheese filling made with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan, paired with perfectly seasoned, tender chicken. The combination of rich flavors and the golden crust create a restaurant-quality dish.
Can I make the stuffed chicken breast ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese stuffing 2 days in advance, season the chicken 1 day prior, and even fully assemble the stuffed chicken breasts. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 day or freeze for up to 3 months.
What are the essential tools for making the stuffed chicken breast?
Key tools include a sharp chef’s knife, meat mallet or rolling pin, mixing bowl, plastic wrap, toothpicks or kitchen twine, a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, baking dish, and aluminum foil.
How do I prevent the filling from spilling during cooking?
To keep the filling secure, use toothpicks or kitchen twine to seal the chicken pockets tightly. Ensure the edges are completely sealed before searing and baking.
What should the internal temperature of the chicken be when cooked?
The stuffed chicken breast should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Can I customize the cheese stuffing?
Yes, you can customize the cheese stuffing by adding herbs like basil or thyme, or spices such as cayenne or smoked paprika for additional flavor. Red pepper flakes can also add a bit of heat.
What are the best side dishes to pair with stuffed chicken breast?
Creamed spinach, garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, and Caesar salad are excellent side dishes that complement the rich, creamy flavors of the stuffed chicken.
Can I cook stuffed chicken breast from frozen?
Yes, if frozen, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator or bake it directly from frozen, adjusting the cooking time. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What beverages pair well with the stuffed chicken breast?
For a classic pairing, try Chardonnay or Pinot Noir. Non-alcoholic options like sparkling water infused with lemon or iced tea also work well.
How can I achieve a golden crust on the chicken?
Sear the stuffed chicken in a hot skillet with olive oil before baking. This step ensures a beautifully golden, crispy exterior while locking in juices.