Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat Recipe
Imagine bringing the luxurious flavors of a Ruth Chris dining experience straight to your dining table with the stuffed chicken copycat recipe. You've got the opportunity to recreate a dish that's not only rich and savory but also impressively straightforward. Starting with tender chicken breasts, you'll learn how to create the perfect pocket for a creamy cheese and herb filling that seals in flavor. But how do you guarantee that the filling doesn't escape during cooking, and what's the secret to achieving that golden crust? The answers lie just ahead, where culinary elegance meets simplicity.
Recipe
Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken is a delightful and savory dish that brings the flavors of a fine dining experience to your home kitchen. The dish features juicy chicken breasts filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture that's infused with aromatic herbs. This combination of textures and tastes makes it a perfect choice for a special occasion or a comforting meal at home. The richness of the cheese filling complements the tender chicken, while the herbs add a revitalizing element that enhances the overall flavor profile.
This recipe is both straightforward and elegant, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. The process involves creating a delicious cheese and herb filling, carefully stuffing it into the chicken breasts, and then baking the dish to perfection. The result is a beautifully seared and baked chicken that's both impressive and satisfying. Whether you're cooking for a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this stuffed chicken dish is sure to be a hit at the table.
Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
To prepare the Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, parsley, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well mixed.
Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast without slicing through completely, then stuff each pocket with the cheese mixture and secure the edges with toothpicks. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the filling is bubbly and hot.
For best results, make certain the cream cheese is well softened before mixing, as this helps in achieving a smooth filling texture. If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce into the filling for an extra kick.
When serving, remember to remove the toothpicks to avoid any surprises at the dinner table. Garnish with fresh parsley or a lemon wedge for an added touch of color and flavor, and pair the dish with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Steps
Let's get cooking with this mouthwatering Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken recipe!
Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 375°F, because we want that chicken to come out just right.
While the oven's warming up, mix your cheeses and herbs, then slice pockets into the chicken breasts, secure them with toothpicks, and sear those bad boys until they're golden and gorgeous—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 375°F
How do you guarantee your dish starts off on the right foot? By setting the stage perfectly, of course!
Preheating your oven to 375°F is like giving your chicken a warm, welcoming hug. It makes sure even cooking, so your stuffed chicken comes out juicy and delicious.
Don't skip this step—your oven needs time to reach the right temperature, just like when you warm up before a workout!
Step 2. Mix Cheeses and Herbs
Combining the cheeses and herbs is an essential step that sets the foundation for your stuffed chicken's rich flavor.
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl and adding your softened cream cheese. Trust me, trying to mix cold cream cheese is like wrestling a stubborn rubber band—impossible!
Next, toss in the shredded cheddar cheese, providing that gooey, melty goodness we all love.
Add the chopped fresh parsley for a pop of green and freshness, and don't forget the minced garlic—it's the secret weapon for an aromatic zing.
Sprinkle in onion powder, salt, and pepper, then mix it all together until it's as smooth as your best dance move.
This cheesy concoction will soon transform your chicken into a culinary masterpiece!
Step 3. Slice Pockets Into Chicken
To get started on the next essential step, take each chicken breast and carefully create a pocket by slicing into the thickest part with a sharp knife.
It's like performing delicate surgery, except the patient is delicious dinner! You want to aim for a pocket deep enough to hold a hearty amount of that cheesy herb filling but not so deep you've accidentally created a chicken pita.
Keep your fingers safe and steady; nobody wants an impromptu trip to the ER. Once the pocket is ready, give it a gentle wiggle to verify it can handle the upcoming stuffing.
This step is critical for flavor distribution, so don't rush it. Remember, a well-crafted pocket equals a happier, tastier chicken.
Step 4. Secure Chicken With Toothpicks
With your chicken pockets expertly crafted, it's time to secure them with toothpicks to keep all that delicious filling in place.
Grab a few toothpicks and gently weave them through the edges of the chicken breasts. Make certain to close any gaps, creating a snug barrier that holds the cheesy goodness inside.
Don't worry if it looks like a porcupine; it's all part of the process! As you poke the toothpicks in, be mindful not to overstuff the pockets, as the filling might escape.
This step guarantees every bite remains as delightful as the last. Remember, the toothpicks are your trusty sidekicks, preventing the filling from staging a great escape while cooking.
Afterward, you can easily remove them before serving.
Step 5. Sear Chicken Until Golden
A sizzling skillet awaits as you prepare to sear the chicken until golden perfection.
Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. As you place the chicken breasts in, listen for that satisfying sizzle—it signals you're on the right track!
Let the chicken sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, turning only when the surface turns a beautiful, golden brown. Resist the urge to poke or prod; patience is key here. You want that crispy, flavorful crust to develop just right.
Don't worry if a little cheese sneaks out—it's a sneaky chef's treat! Once both sides are seared to golden perfection, your chicken's ready for the next delicious step. Enjoy the anticipation!
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, creating the Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken at home is a rewarding experience that brings restaurant-quality elegance to your dining table.
You'll impress your guests, or maybe just yourself, with this delicious dish. The process is straightforward, even for kitchen newbies, and the results are oh-so-satisfying.
Remember, the key is in the details: make sure the cream cheese is soft, the sear is golden, and the chicken is cooked through.
Don't forget to remove those sneaky toothpicks before serving—nothing ruins a meal like an unexpected dental hazard!
Pair your masterpiece with some roasted veggies or a crisp salad, and you've got a meal that's both fancy and fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
You can use bone-in chicken breasts, but it's trickier. You'll need to adjust the cooking time since bone-in takes longer to cook evenly. Be careful when cutting pockets for stuffing to avoid hitting the bone.
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, skip any breadcrumbs or flour in the coating. Confirm all seasonings and cheeses are gluten-free. Opt for fresh herbs and double-check ingredient labels to avoid hidden gluten. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Is There a Recommended Substitute for Cream Cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like almond or cashew-based cream cheese. These options maintain the creamy texture while adding a nutty flavor. Verify it's softened before mixing for smooth blending. Enjoy experimenting!
What Wine Pairs Well With This Stuffed Chicken?
You should pair this stuffed chicken with a Chardonnay or a Sauvignon Blanc. These wines complement the dish's creamy filling and herbs beautifully, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them. Enjoy a glass for a perfect meal experience.
How Can I Store and Reheat Leftovers Properly?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, around 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain the chicken's texture and filling consistency.
