Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken – Recipe, Tips, and Variations

by

Ruth Chris Steak House is renowned for its luxurious dining experience, featuring a menu of indulgent dishes. Among its standout offerings is the Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken Recipe, a beloved dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy cheese filling, baked to golden perfection. This recipe has become a favorite not just in the restaurant but also for home cooks recreating the magic in their kitchens.

Ingredients Breakdown

The appeal of Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken comes from its simplicity and the role each ingredient plays in delivering rich flavor and creamy texture. Let’s take a closer look at these components and how you can enhance or modify them to suit your needs.

Essential Ingredients

  1. Chicken Breasts
    • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide the perfect foundation for this recipe. Their mild flavor allows the stuffing to shine, and they hold the filling securely when properly prepared.
    • For a juicier alternative, consider using boneless chicken thighs. You’ll need to flatten them slightly to ensure even cooking, but the extra effort often pays off.
  2. Cream Cheese
    • Cream cheese creates the creamy base of the stuffing. Its slightly tangy flavor perfectly complements the chicken’s mild taste.
    • If you prefer a lighter option, you can swap regular cream cheese for Neufchâtel cheese. This substitute maintains the creaminess without adding too many calories.
  3. Shredded Cheese
    • Cheddar or mozzarella adds gooey richness to the filling, which pairs beautifully with the cream cheese. Combining the two enhances both flavor and texture.
    • Alternatively, you might experiment with Parmesan, Gouda, or Monterey Jack to customize the dish further.
  4. Herbs and Spices
    • Fresh parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper infuse the stuffing with savory and aromatic notes. These spices elevate the dish from simple to gourmet.
    • If you want to get creative, substitute fresh herbs like chives or rosemary for a unique twist.
  5. Panko Breadcrumbs (Optional)
    • Breadcrumbs help bind the stuffing, making it slightly firmer while still creamy.
    • Gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers are great substitutes if you’re avoiding gluten.
  6. Butter and Olive Oil
    • These ingredients keep the chicken moist during baking and help create a golden, flavorful crust.
    • To mix things up, try using avocado oil or ghee for similar effects with a slight flavor variation.

Proportion and Balance

A well-balanced stuffing starts with a 2:1 ratio of cream cheese to shredded cheese. This balance ensures the filling remains creamy without being overly dense. Don’t forget to taste the stuffing before assembling the dish! Adjust the spices until you achieve the perfect flavor profile for your family or guests.

Additional Ingredients for Variation

Adding a few optional ingredients can transform the dish into something even more special. For instance:

  • Spinach: Toss in chopped spinach for a nutrient boost and a splash of color.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These bring a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that contrasts nicely with the richness of the cheese.
  • Bacon Bits: For those who love smoky flavors, mix in bacon bits to enhance the stuffing.

As you prepare the recipe, keep in mind that the right combination of ingredients ensures a stuffed chicken that tastes as good as the original.

Step-by-Step Recipe: Preparation, Stuffing, and Baking

Making Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken at home is straightforward if you break it into three main stages: preparing the chicken breasts, making the cream cheese stuffing, and assembling and baking. Each step is important for achieving a perfect dish.

Preparing the Chicken Breasts

  1. Choose Uniform Chicken Breasts
    • Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are similar in size. Uniform pieces help ensure even cooking.
  2. Create a Pocket in the Chicken
    • Lay each breast flat on a cutting board. Hold it steady with one hand and, using a sharp knife, cut into the thickest side to create a pocket. Avoid cutting through to the other side.
  3. Season the Chicken
    • Generously sprinkle the inside and outside of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Allow the chicken to rest as the flavors seep in while you prepare the stuffing.

Making the Cream Cheese Stuffing

  1. Gather the Ingredients
    • Use softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese, fresh parsley, and a dash of black pepper and garlic powder.
  2. Mix Until Smooth
    • In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients. Use a spoon or spatula to blend until the mixture is creamy and well-mixed.
  3. Customize the Filling
    • If desired, add chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or cooked bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.
  4. Taste and Adjust
    • Taste a small amount of the stuffing and tweak the seasoning to match your preferences.

Assembling and Baking

  1. Stuff the Chicken Pockets
    • Spoon the prepared cream cheese mixture into the chicken pockets. Be careful not to overfill, as the stuffing could leak out during cooking.
  2. Seal the Pockets
    • Close the edges of each pocket using toothpicks. This step helps keep the stuffing intact while the chicken cooks.
  3. Sear the Chicken (Optional)
    • Heat a skillet with a small amount of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear each side of the stuffed chicken for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. This adds color and seals in the juices.
  4. Bake the Chicken
    • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed chicken in a greased baking dish and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) by using a meat thermometer.
  5. Rest and Garnish
    • Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese, then serve with your favorite sides.

Nutritional Information

Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken is both indulgent and nutrient-packed, making it a versatile option for different diets. By understanding its caloric breakdown and exploring healthier alternatives, you can enjoy this dish without compromise.

Caloric Breakdown

  1. Chicken Breasts
    • Chicken breasts are a lean protein option, offering roughly 120–140 calories per 4-ounce serving. They are an excellent source of high-quality protein, which forms the foundation of this dish.
  2. Stuffing Ingredients
    • The cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese in the stuffing are calorie-dense components.
      • Full-fat cream cheese: ~100 calories per tablespoon.
      • Shredded cheddar: ~110 calories per 1/4 cup.
    • Extras like bacon, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes can add flavor and nutrients but also increase calorie content.
  3. Cooking Fats
    • Using butter or olive oil for searing and baking contributes about 40–50 calories per teaspoon. Consider alternatives for a lighter result.

Healthier Alternatives

  1. Swap for Low-Fat Cheeses
    • Replace full-fat cream cheese with Neufchâtel or reduced-fat cream cheese. Similarly, reduced-fat shredded cheese can lower the calorie and fat content.
  2. Incorporate More Vegetables
    • Add nutrient-dense vegetables like chopped spinach, kale, or zucchini into the stuffing. These ingredients boost fiber and vitamins without adding many calories.
  3. Use Lighter Fats
    • Instead of butter, use olive oil spray or a small amount of avocado oil to minimize added calories. These healthier fats still enhance flavor while being heart-friendly.
  4. Portion Control
    • Keep the stuffing to about 2–3 tablespoons per chicken breast to prevent overloading calories while maintaining the dish’s balance.

FAQs About Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken

If you’re curious about Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken or want tips for making it at home, these common questions and expert answers will help you master this iconic dish.

1. What is Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken?

Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken is a signature dish featuring juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a rich, creamy cheese mixture. The chicken is seared to create a golden crust and then baked to perfection. Its indulgent flavor and satisfying textures make it a standout menu item at the steakhouse.

2. What cheeses are used in the filling?

The cheese filling typically includes cream cheese, cheddar, and Parmesan. Cream cheese adds creaminess, cheddar provides a sharp flavor, and Parmesan contributes a salty, nutty note. You can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for variations.

3. Can I prepare the stuffed chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken up to the searing step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, bake the chicken in a preheated oven until it reaches the proper internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

4. Are there variations of this dish?

Absolutely! While the classic recipe uses cheese as the main filling, you can customize it by adding ingredients like chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or cooked bacon to the filling. Herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the flavor.

5. What sides pair well with stuffed chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. For a steakhouse-style meal, consider serving it with garlic butter asparagus or a loaded baked potato.

6. How can I keep the cheese filling from spilling out during cooking?

To prevent spills, secure the chicken edges with toothpicks after stuffing. Ensure the filling is evenly distributed and avoid overstuffing. A good sear before baking also helps seal the edges.

7. Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe to other proteins. Turkey breasts or pork chops are excellent alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat reaches a safe internal temperature.

8. Do I need a thermometer to cook this dish?

While not mandatory, a kitchen thermometer ensures the chicken is cooked through without overbaking. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

9. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.

10. Can this dish be made gluten-free?

Yes! Ensure all your seasonings and ingredients, like cheese and spices, are gluten-free. Skip any breadcrumb topping or replace it with a gluten-free alternative for a crunchy finish.

The dish is beloved for its balance of flavors, combining the savory taste of chicken with a rich and creamy filling. Its versatility and crowd-pleasing appeal make it a standout choice for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Conclusion

Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken offers the perfect combination of creamy filling and tender chicken, making it a favorite among diners and home cooks alike. Its customizable nature allows you to create a dish that fits any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to an elegant celebration.

By carefully selecting ingredients, following the detailed steps in this guide, and using thoughtful presentation techniques, you can recreate a restaurant-quality meal at home. Pair it with delicious sides and beverages for a complete dining experience that rivals any upscale restaurant.

Now is the time to take on this recipe and make it your own. Whether you stick to the classic preparation or explore creative variations, Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken will surely delight your guests and family.