If you've ever had the chance to dine at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, you’ve probably experienced the mouthwatering delight that is their stuffed chicken breast. This decadent dish is a savory mix of tender, juicy chicken filled with rich, creamy cheese and seasonings that keep you coming back for more. Lucky for you, this recipe guide will show you exactly how to recreate Ruth's Chris stuffed chicken right in your own kitchen! Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving something special for dinner, this copycat recipe is bound to impress.
Read on to get all the details on how to make Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken at home, including step-by-step instructions, ingredient lists, and essential cooking tips to perfect this delicious dish!
What is Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken?
Ruth's Chris stuffed chicken is a signature dish that features juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a cheesy filling made with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and flavorful seasonings. The chicken is carefully seasoned, baked to perfection, and served golden brown with a crispy, delicious exterior. The creamy, rich stuffing creates an irresistible contrast to the tender chicken, making this dish a standout on Ruth's Chris menu and a favorite among diners.
Ingredients List for Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken
To make this delectable stuffed chicken at home, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
For the Stuffing:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Coating:
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Substitutions and Variations
While the classic Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken is delicious as is, you can easily customize the recipe based on your dietary preferences or taste preferences. Here are a few substitution ideas:
- Cheese Options: While sharp cheddar is used in this recipe, you can swap it for other types of cheese like mozzarella, Gruyère, or pepper jack for a spicier kick. You could even mix in some blue cheese for a more intense flavor.
- Lower Fat Option: If you're looking to reduce the fat content, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and swap the sour cream with Greek yogurt.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the stuffing mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
- Breading Alternative: If you prefer a lighter option, you can skip the panko-Parmesan crust and bake the chicken without the breadcrumbs. You’ll still get a rich, flavorful stuffed chicken, just without the crispy coating.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it's time to dive into the cooking process. Follow these easy steps to recreate the famous Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken in your kitchen.
How to Cook Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is hot enough to cook the chicken evenly and get that perfect golden-brown finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and, using a sharp knife, cut a deep pocket into the side of each breast without slicing all the way through. This will be the cavity for your stuffing. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Stuffing
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This is your rich and creamy stuffing!
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken Breasts
Carefully spoon the cheese mixture into the pockets of each chicken breast. Use about 2-3 tablespoons of filling per breast, depending on the size of the chicken. Press the chicken breasts gently to seal the filling inside.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. This step helps lock in the juices and gives the chicken a nice, crispy exterior.
Step 6: Add the Coating
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Once the chicken breasts have been seared, sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture over the top of each breast to create a crispy topping.
Step 7: Bake the Chicken
Transfer the skillet with the chicken to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The breadcrumb topping should be golden brown and crispy by the time the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender and flavorful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overstuffing the Chicken: While it may be tempting to stuff as much filling as possible, overstuffing can cause the cheese to ooze out while baking. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons of stuffing per breast.
- Not Searing the Chicken: Skipping the searing step can result in a less flavorful and less crispy chicken exterior. Searing helps develop a golden-brown crust and locks in the juices.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to avoid drying out the chicken. Overcooked chicken can become tough and dry.
Serving and Presentation Tips
The way you serve and present Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken can elevate the entire dining experience. Here are a few tips:
How to Serve Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken
Serve the stuffed chicken breasts whole for an impressive presentation, or slice them diagonally to showcase the gooey cheese filling. You can serve this dish alongside a variety of side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad.
Presentation Ideas for Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, chives, or thyme can add color and freshness to the plate.
- Serve on a Bed of Greens: Plating the stuffed chicken on a bed of arugula or spinach adds a touch of elegance.
- Drizzle with Sauce: A light drizzle of balsamic glaze or a garlic butter sauce can add extra flavor and presentation appeal.
Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Recipe Tips
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the chicken and stuffing in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This is a great way to save time if you're entertaining guests.
- Check the Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients: For the best results, use high-quality cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and fresh herbs. Fresh ingredients will enhance the flavor of your dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?
A: While bone-in chicken breasts can be used, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are preferred for easier stuffing and even cooking.
Q: Can I freeze the stuffed chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken before baking. Wrap each stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as instructed.
Q: What should I do if I don’t have a skillet that can go in the oven?
A: If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish before placing them in the oven.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
Conclusion
With this Ruth’s Chris stuffed chicken copycat recipe, you can bring the luxurious flavors of a high-end steakhouse right into your own home. From the rich and creamy stuffing to the perfectly cooked, juicy chicken, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner for loved ones or just treating yourself, this stuffed chicken will never disappoint.
Ready to impress your guests or simply satisfy your cravings? Gather your ingredients and start cooking today!
PrintRuth Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat Recipe
This Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken copycat recipe features juicy chicken breasts filled with a rich blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and spices. Perfectly baked for a golden crust, this luxurious dish is ideal for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner. It's simple to make but tastes like a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the cream cheese mixture and secure the opening with toothpicks.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the cheese filling.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
Leave a Reply