We’ve always been fans of Ruth’s Chris Steak House classics and their stuffed chicken breast stands out as a crowd-pleaser. This dish combines juicy chicken with savory fillings for a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
In our version we’ll walk you through the steps to recreate that signature flavor using simple ingredients. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions so join us as we bring this favorite to your table.
Ingredients
To bring our take on the Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Breast to life, we start with a curated list of simple, high-quality ingredients. These are organized in the order they are used in the recipe, with prep notes for precision and ease.
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 6 ounces each) – Butterfly each one to create a pocket for stuffing, ensuring even cooking and a juicy result.
- Fresh Spinach: 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped – We use this as the first layer of the stuffing for its vibrant green color and nutrient-rich profile that complements the chicken’s mild flavor.
- Cream Cheese: 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened at room temperature – This forms the creamy base of the stuffing; mix it well for a smooth, savory spread.
- Garlic: 3 cloves garlic, minced – Added next to the stuffing mixture, it infuses a bold, aromatic essence that elevates the dish’s taste.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – We incorporate this for a nutty, salty kick that mimics the restaurant-style finish.
- Herbs and Seasonings: 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – These are blended into the stuffing for enhanced flavor depth, with salt and pepper adjusted to taste for optimal seasoning.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil – Used for searing the chicken, it helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior while locking in moisture.
- Optional Additions: 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, diced – If desired, we include these in the stuffing for a tangy sweetness that adds a gourmet touch to the Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Breast.
This selection ensures a balanced, flavorful dish that’s simple to prepare at home.
Tools and Equipment
Before we dive into preparing our Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken breast, let’s gather the essential tools and equipment. Having the right items on hand ensures a smooth cooking process and helps us achieve that restaurant-quality result with minimal hassle.
We recommend these key tools, organized by their role in the recipe:
- Cutting board: A sturdy, non-slip cutting board is crucial for safely slicing and butterfying the boneless, skinless chicken breasts, allowing us to create the perfect pocket for our savory stuffing.
- Sharp knife: Use a high-quality chef’s knife to precisely cut into the chicken and chop ingredients like fresh spinach and garlic, ensuring clean edges and even cooking.
- Meat mallet: This tool helps us gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, which promotes uniform stuffing and a juicy, tender finish.
- Mixing bowls: At least one medium-sized bowl is necessary for combining the stuffing mixture, such as cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, to achieve that creamy, flavorful base.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for our ingredients, so we rely on these to portion out items like olive oil and garlic without guesswork.
- Baking dish or sheet: A 9×13-inch baking dish works best for roasting the stuffed chicken breasts, providing even heat distribution and easy cleanup.
- Oven thermometer: To guarantee precise baking, an oven thermometer helps us maintain the ideal temperature, ensuring our chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Tongs or spatula: These are indispensable for flipping and serving the chicken, allowing us to handle it safely without piercing the stuffing and losing those delicious juices.
By preparing these tools in advance, we set ourselves up for a seamless transition from mixing our ingredients to baking a mouthwatering dish.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through preparing our flavorful Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken breast step by step to achieve a juicy and savory result.
Prepare the Stuffing
First, we start by combining the stuffing ingredients to create a creamy and aromatic mixture that forms the heart of our Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken breast. In a medium mixing bowl, we add 8 ounces of softened cream cheese as the base for its rich texture. Next, we incorporate 2 cups of fresh spinach—chopped finely for even distribution—and mix in 2 cloves of minced garlic for a pungent kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.
We then stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to add a nutty depth, followed by 1 teaspoon of dried herbs such as thyme and oregano for an herby freshness. If desired, include 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy sweetness that elevates the stuffing. Using a spoon, we blend everything together until smooth—aim for about 2 minutes of mixing to ensure the ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture reaches a spreadable consistency that promises a delectable burst of flavor in every bite.
Stuff the Chicken Breasts
With the stuffing ready, we move on to preparing the chicken breasts for a secure and even fill that mimics the professional presentation of Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken breast. Begin by placing each boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 6 ounces each) on a sturdy cutting board and use a meat mallet to gently pound them to a uniform 1/4-inch thickness— this step ensures the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs the stuffing’s flavors without tearing.
Next, we season the flattened breasts lightly with salt and pepper on both sides for balanced taste. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the prepared stuffing mixture onto the center of each breast, then carefully fold the sides over the filling and secure with toothpicks to prevent any leakage during cooking—imagine the chicken enveloping the creamy stuffing like a warm, savory blanket. This technique guarantees a moist interior with a golden exterior that delights the senses upon serving.
Cook the Chicken
Finally, we bake the stuffed chicken breasts to achieve a tender and golden finish that captures the essence of Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken breast. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil for even browning. Arrange the stuffed breasts in the dish seam-side down, then drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to promote a crispy outer layer.
We bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F—use an oven thermometer for precision to ensure safety and optimal juiciness. Halfway through, we baste the tops with pan juices for added moisture and flavor, allowing the aroma of garlic and herbs to waft through your kitchen as the chicken develops a beautifully browned crust. Once done, let it rest for 5 minutes before removing the toothpicks, resulting in succulent slices that showcase the vibrant, creamy stuffing inside.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To simplify your meal prep and enjoy Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken breast on busy days, we recommend preparing components in advance. This approach allows flavors to meld, resulting in a tender, juicy dish with a creamy, savory filling that bursts with garlic and herb notes when reheated.
Preparing the Stuffing Ahead
We start by making the stuffing mixture up to 2 days in advance. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped fresh spinach, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried herbs until smooth and aromatic. For added zest, incorporate optional sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy burst. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. This step ensures the ingredients infuse with rich, earthy flavors, making your stuffing even more irresistible when you’re ready to assemble.
Assembling the Stuffed Chicken
Assemble the full stuffed chicken breasts up to 24 hours ahead for effortless cooking. First, pound the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet, then season with salt and pepper. Spoon the prepared stuffing into each breast, roll securely, and use toothpicks to hold them in place. Arrange the assembled breasts in a greased baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator. This method keeps the chicken moist and the filling creamy, enhancing the dish’s golden, flavorful outcome.
Storage and Reheating Tips
For longer storage, we suggest freezing the assembled stuffed chicken for up to 3 months. Wrap each breast individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn and maintain texture. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the toothpicks, place the chicken in a baking dish, and bake for 25-30 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baste with olive oil halfway through for extra moisture, yielding a succulent, golden-brown exterior that locks in the creamy stuffing’s essence. Always use a reliable oven thermometer to ensure safety and optimal results.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 2 days (stuffing) or 24 hours (assembled) | Keep airtight to preserve freshness and flavors. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Thaw slowly in fridge; avoid microwave thawing to prevent texture loss. |
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing how to bring Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken breast into your kitchen. It’s a simple way to create meals that impress without the fuss.
By trying this recipe, you’ll enjoy flavorful, nutritious dinners that feel special every time. Let’s make home cooking our go-to for restaurant vibes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Breast?
The key ingredients include boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh spinach, cream cheese, garlic, Parmesan cheese, herbs, and olive oil. Optional additions like sun-dried tomatoes enhance flavor. These simple, high-quality items ensure a nutritious and tasty dish, perfect for home cooking.
What tools do I need to prepare this recipe?
You’ll need a sturdy cutting board, sharp knife, meat mallet for pounding chicken, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a baking dish, oven thermometer, and tongs or a spatula. Having these ready ensures a smooth, safe process for achieving restaurant-quality results.
How do I make the stuffed chicken breast?
Start by mixing cream cheese, chopped spinach, garlic, Parmesan, herbs, and optional sun-dried tomatoes for the stuffing. Pound chicken breasts to even thickness, season, fill with stuffing, and secure with toothpicks. Bake in a preheated oven until it reaches 165°F internally, basting halfway for moisture.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, make the stuffing up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container. Assemble the stuffed chicken up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven to retain texture and flavor.
How long does it take to bake the stuffed chicken?
Bake at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Baste halfway through for extra juiciness. Total prep and cook time is around 45-60 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights or occasions.
Are there substitutions for the ingredients?
You can substitute fresh spinach with kale or arugula, cream cheese with ricotta for a lighter option, and add nuts or different herbs for variety. Sun-dried tomatoes can be omitted or replaced with roasted red peppers to keep the dish balanced and flavorful.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it’s nutritious thanks to spinach for vitamins, lean chicken for protein, and garlic for antioxidants. Using fresh ingredients keeps it balanced, but watch portions due to cream cheese. It’s a great option for a wholesome, restaurant-style meal at home.