Introduction
When it comes to a satisfying and elegant dinner, few dishes can compete with Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken. This recipe harnesses the rich flavors and textures typically found in a high-end restaurant right in your kitchen. Perfect for any night of the week, it's impressive yet surprisingly easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for family dinners or entertaining.
The combination of tender chicken breasts filled with a savory cheese mixture creates a mouthwatering experience. You'll find your taste buds delighted with each succulent bite, bringing a delightful touch of luxury to dinner. Whether you are a novice cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe guides you through crafting a flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
The chicken serves as the main protein, providing a hearty and filling base for the dish. Choosing high-quality meat ensures a juicy and tender result. - 1 cup cream cheese, softened
Cream cheese adds a rich, creamy texture to the filling, enhancing its overall mouthfeel and flavor. - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella provides a deliciously melty characteristic, allowing the filling to stretch and ooze, creating that comforting effect. - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Adding Parmesan contributes nuttiness and depth of flavor, elevating the dish beyond standard stuffed chicken recipes. - 1 tablespoon minced garlic
Garlic introduces aromatic undertones that deepen the flavor profile, making each bite ever so tempting. - 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
Parsley brightens the filling with a hint of freshness, and also adds a pop of color that visually enhances the dish. - Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning is crucial in enhancing all the other ingredients’ flavors, allowing each component to shine. - 1 tablespoon olive oil
Olive oil is essential for cooking the chicken to a golden brown and lends a subtle fruitiness to the dish. - 1/2 cup chicken broth
Broth adds moisture during the cooking process and infuses additional flavor, ensuring the chicken remains juicy.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Preheating the oven is a critical first step that ensures even cooking. By starting with a hot oven, the chicken will roast perfectly, achieving a beautifully golden exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
Step 2: Prepare the filling by mixing cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, and parsley in a bowl until well combined.
This step creates a flavorful filling that defines the dish. Incorporating the cheeses and seasonings thoroughly ensures that every bite will have a harmonious mix of flavors. For ease, soften the cream cheese beforehand to facilitate mixing.
Step 3: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Seasoning the chicken is essential for flavor development. Evenly coating both sides enhances the natural chicken taste, ensuring that every bite is well-seasoned.
Step 4: Using a sharp knife, carefully make a pocket in each chicken breast for stuffing.
Creating a pocket is crucial as it holds the delicious filling. Be gentle to avoid cutting all the way through, which could cause the filling to ooze out while cooking.
Step 5: Stuff each chicken breast with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly.
Evenly stuffing the chicken is key to ensure all the breasts cook uniformly with the same amount of flavor. You want each chicken breast filled generously but not overflowing, which keeps the filling intact.
Step 6: Secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling inside during cooking.
Using toothpicks is a practical way to seal the chicken pockets. This prevents the filling from leaking out, helping to maintain the integrity of the dish and achieving that creamy heart.
Step 7: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Searing the chicken adds a lovely color and caramelization, enhancing both the flavor and appearance. This step locks in moisture before the chicken finishes cooking in the oven.
Step 8: Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish and pour chicken broth around the chicken.
Transferring to a baking dish avoids any mess and allows the chicken to roast evenly. The broth adds moisture, preventing the chicken from drying out while providing additional flavor.
Step 9: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cooking until reaching the proper internal temperature is vital for food safety and flavor. The final bake ensures that the chicken is fully cooked, juicy, and safe to eat, while also allowing the filling to become melty and truly delightful.
Step 10: Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, then remove toothpicks before serving.
Resting the chicken allows the juices to redistribute, making every slice moist and flavorful. Removing toothpicks just before serving keeps the presentation clean and inviting.
An Ideal Pairing of Flavors
Each ingredient in the filling of this stuffed chicken harmonizes beautifully, creating an exquisite blend of flavors. The creaminess of the cheese counteracts the savory elements of garlic and herbs, providing a richness that complements the mild chicken perfectly. This ideal balance makes the dish versatile, pairing well with various sides, from roasted vegetables to creamy mashed potatoes.
Perfect for Special Occasions
Although it’s easy to make, this stuffed chicken looks and tastes gourmet enough to impress guests at any dinner party. The elegant presentation and layered flavors create an inviting atmosphere at the table, making it suitable for celebrations, anniversaries, or gatherings with friends. Bring restaurant-quality dining into your home without the fuss!
Healthy Alternatives to Personalize
This recipe is easily adaptable for health-conscious eaters. You can switch up the cheese for a lower-fat option, or incorporate spinach and mushrooms into the filling for added nutrients. Experimenting with herbs or spices can further customize the flavor profile, letting you tailor the dish to fit various dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.
FAQs
What should I do if my filling is too thick?
If the filling seems overly thick, add a splash of milk or cream to achieve a creamier consistency. This adjustment allows for easier stuffing and a richer texture.
Can I substitute chicken with turkey?
Yes, turkey works well as a substitute for chicken in this recipe. Just ensure that the turkey is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What if my chicken breasts are dry after cooking?
If the chicken turns out dry, it may have been overcooked. To prevent this in the future, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and consider brining the chicken beforehand for added moisture.
How can I make the chicken more flavorful?
Marinating the chicken in a mix of your favorite herbs, spices, and olive oil prior to stuffing can enhance the overall flavor. Additionally, experimenting with different herbs in the filling can also elevate the taste.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. If using frozen, ensure they are completely defrosted in the refrigerator prior to preparing to ensure even stuffing and cooking.
What if my chicken is burning on the outside before cooking through?
If the chicken is browning too quickly, lower the heat when searing and ensure that your skillet is not too hot. A gentle, medium heat will allow the chicken to cook through without burning.
Conclusion
Cooking Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken at home not only offers a luxurious dining experience but also empowers you as a cook. This straightforward recipe encourages creativity and personalization, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.
So the next time you're searching for a meal that impresses yet remains accessible, give this stuffed chicken a try. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it may just become your go-to dish for special occasions and family dinners alike.
Recipe Card
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
