Indulge in Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat at Home!
There’s something truly magical about the aroma of a comforting meal wafting through your home, isn’t there? Imagine returning from a long day, your senses awakened by the inviting scent of herbs and spices sizzling away in the oven, calling you to the kitchen. As you step through the door, the familiar feeling of warmth envelops you, reminiscent of delightful evenings spent with cherished friends and family, sharing laughter around the table. Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that captures all of that essence, showcasing a beloved dish: Indulge in Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat at Home! This is the perfect comforting recipe to elevate your dinner routine into something special.
Why Make This Recipe
- Crowd-Pleaser: This tasty chicken dish is sure to impress family and friends during a casual gathering or a festive occasion.
- Comforting Flavors: With rich cheese, savory herbs, and delightful seasonings, it melds together to create a symphony of flavors.
- Quick Prep: You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it an easy meal for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Ingredients: Swap in your favorite veggies or cheeses to make it your own.
- Cozy Memories: Each bite will evoke warm memories of cherished dinners and good company.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Boneless Chicken Breasts (4): The star of the show, plump and juicy, ready to be stuffed. Choose organic for a richer flavor!
- Cream Cheese (8 oz): Adds creaminess and a subtle tang. You can even use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Spinach (1 cup, chopped): A nutritious addition that brings vibrant color and a fresh taste.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): The aromatic foundation of many great dishes; sautéing this will have your kitchen smelling heavenly.
- Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded): For that gooey, melty goodness that binds it all together.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): A sprinkle of this on top creates a delightful crust.
- Italian Seasoning (1 tablespoon): A blend of herbs that evokes Italian kitchens and adds depth.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for amplifying flavors.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the garlic and drizzling over the chicken.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
This dish feels like a warm hug that’s absolutely worth the preparation, and it’s sure to become a family favorite!
How to Make Indulge in Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat at Home!
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). The anticipation begins as the oven warms up, promising a delicious meal soon.
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Prep the Chicken: Slice a deep pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Be gentle to avoid cutting through completely — think of cradling a treasure!
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Sauté the Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant (about 1 minute). Trust me, the aroma will fill your kitchen like a warm embrace.
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Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sautéed garlic, chopped spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well-combined.
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Stuff the Chicken: Generously fill each chicken breast with the creamy mixture. Use toothpicks to secure the openings if needed, preventing any delicious filling from escaping.
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Sear the Chicken: In that same skillet, add a little more olive oil and sear the stuffed chicken breasts on each side until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side). This step brings an extra layer of flavor!
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Bake: Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish and place it into the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F (75°C)).
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Rest and Serve: Let the stuffed chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. As you cut, you will see the melty filling ooze out, revealing all its comforting glory!
Tips and Creative Variations
- Spinach Substitute: Try kale or even roasted red peppers for a colorful twist.
- Cheese Variations: Get creative with feta, goat cheese, or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Herbs: Add fresh basil or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor and an elegant touch.
- Festive Cooking: Serve on a bed of wild rice or with a light lemon butter sauce for an elevated dinner setting.
Serving Ideas
Picture this: your beautifully stuffed chicken nestled beside a vibrant salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette, or a warm bowl of garlic mashed potatoes stealing the spotlight. Pair it with a crisp white wine for a special occasion or homemade lemonade for a relaxing weeknight dinner. As your loved ones gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter, the delectable aroma of this dish will set the perfect mood.
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: Place leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze stuffed chicken before baking! Just wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, storing them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, simply transfer to the fridge to thaw overnight before baking.
- Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven for about 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C) or gently microwave until heated through, taking care not to dry it out.
Pro Tips for Success
- Choose Chicken Wisely: Look for chicken breasts that are even in thickness to ensure they cook evenly and don’t dry out.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your filling before stuffing to adjust flavors to your liking.
- Don’t Rush the Resting: Letting the chicken rest locks in those juicy flavors, creating the perfect bite.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: Consider marinating the chicken with lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs for an extra flavor boost!
FAQs
- Can I freeze this recipe? Yes, raw stuffed chicken can be frozen and baked later for a quick meal!
- What’s the best substitute for mozzarella? Try provolone or gouda for a fun twist.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble the chicken ahead of time and bake just before serving.
Conclusion
Cooking is an act of love, a way to connect with our loved ones through flavors, aromas, and cherished memories. Making and sharing this Indulge in Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat at Home! means bringing together comforting moments in a delicious way. I invite you to create this dish, savor every bite, and share it with those who mean the most to you. So, roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and relish in the joy that only a home-cooked meal can bring!
Contents
Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Boneless Chicken Breasts Choose organic for a richer flavor.
- 8 oz Cream Cheese You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- 1 cup Spinach, chopped A nutritious addition.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Sauté until fragrant.
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese, shredded For gooey goodness.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Sprinkle for a crust.
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Adds depth of flavor.
- to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for flavor enhancement.
- as needed Olive Oil For sautéing and drizzling.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice a deep pocket into the side of each chicken breast.
- In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- In a bowl, combine cream cheese, sautéed garlic, spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until mixed.
- Fill each chicken breast with the creamy mixture and secure openings with toothpicks if needed.
- In the skillet, add olive oil and sear the stuffed chicken breasts on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer chicken to a baking dish and bake for about 20 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Let the stuffed chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Notes
Written by khadija — founder of Dailypan, sharing easy, cozy homemade recipes for every occasion.