Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken (Copycat Recipe) Recipe

If you’re craving a restaurant-style entrée that dazzles with creamy, savory flavors and is surprisingly easy to whip up at home, the Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken (Copycat Recipe) is about to become your new obsession. This beloved dish mirrors the signature item from the famed steakhouse, featuring juicy, tender chicken breasts brimming with a rich, herby cheese filling and kissed with buttery citrus. Whether you’re impressing dinner guests or enhancing a family weeknight meal, this recipe feels like the ultimate indulgence — yet comes together with straightforward steps and pantry staples.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in the Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken (Copycat Recipe) brings something special, from depth and moisture to irresistible flavor. You’ll only need simple kitchen basics, each chosen to pack the most delicious punch into every forkful.

• Chicken breasts: Opt for large, boneless, skinless breasts as the foundation for juicy, plentiful stuffing — butterflying them makes a perfect pocket.
• Cream cheese: This is the star of the filling, lending a creamy, decadent texture that melts beautifully inside the chicken.
• Shredded parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty kick and helps the filling stay wonderfully rich and savory.
• Garlic powder or granulate: Brings sultry garlic flavor throughout without overwhelming the delicate chicken.
• Onion powder: Rounds out the filling’s taste with sweetness and warmth in every bite.
• Salt: Essential for enhancing every flavor and drawing out the natural juiciness of the chicken.
• Dried thyme: This herb adds an earthy note and subtle fragrance that pairs perfectly with poultry and cheese.
• Lemon (zested and juiced): The zest brightens the buttery crust, while the juice sharpens the cheese mixture and balances the richness.
• Butter (melted): Basting the stuffed chicken in butter ensures a golden, succulent finish you’ll love.
• Fresh parsley (optional): Chopped and sprinkled inside, parsley lends color and a burst of freshness right before baking.

How to Make Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken (Copycat Recipe)

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 425ºF and allow it to heat fully, which helps ensure the chicken cooks evenly and develops that crave-worthy, golden topping. Meanwhile, prepare a baking sheet or casserole dish by lining it with parchment or lightly greasing it with oil — this makes cleanup a breeze and guarantees zero sticking.

Step 2: Butterfly the Chicken Breasts

Place each chicken breast on a cutting board and, using a sharp, steady knife, carefully slice lengthwise about three-quarters of the way through the thickest side. Be gentle and precise so the breast opens like a book without cutting all the way through; this step is what creates the perfect cavity for that luscious, cheesy filling.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, shredded parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and fresh lemon juice. Stir until the mixture looks smooth and well-combined. You want a filling that’s thick but easily spreadable, infused with flavor in every spoonful.

Step 4: Stuff and Assemble

Spoon half of the cheesy mixture into each butterflied chicken breast, gently spreading it but leaving about a half-inch border around the edge to prevent overfilling. For a herbal touch, sprinkle some fresh parsley on the cheese if you’re using it. Fold the chicken back over and make sure the edges seal around the filling.

Step 5: Butter Baste and Aromatics

In a small bowl, stir the melted butter with the fresh lemon zest. Brush this buttery, citrusy glaze over the tops of the stuffed chicken breasts. This not only adds fabulous flavor but guarantees each bite is juicy and full of subtle zing.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the stuffed chicken pieces on your prepared baking sheet and slide them into the oven. Set your timer for 30 minutes. About 20 minutes in, check the tops and give them a quick baste with their own juices to encourage even browning. Use an instant read thermometer for best results: chicken is perfectly cooked when it hits an internal temp of 165ºF in the thickest section.

Step 7: Rest, Slice, and Serve

Once the Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken (Copycat Recipe) is golden and bubbling, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting time keeps all those lovely juices inside. For maximum wow factor and easier serving, slice each breast in half crosswise. Plate up and get ready for rave reviews!

How to Serve Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken (Copycat Recipe)

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a few additional lemon zest curls on top adds a vibrant, professional finish. Try a light dusting of extra parmesan for added decadence, or top with microgreens to impress your guests at first glance.

Side Dishes

The Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken (Copycat Recipe) shines alongside classic steakhouse sides. Think buttery mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, a simple green salad, or even garlicky sautéed spinach. The creamy filling and zesty crust love being matched with fresh, crisp, or starchy flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, serve the chicken sliced on a platter with lemon wedges and a drizzle of its own buttery pan juices. Or turn this recipe into a dinner party centerpiece by pairing it with a bold, colorful pilaf and a glass of chilled Chardonnay to round out the steakhouse vibe at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, cool the stuffed chicken to room temperature, then store pieces in an airtight container. They’ll keep in your refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, making lunchtime a breeze the next day with zero effort.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap each stuffed breast tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store in a freezer-safe bag. Lay them flat in the freezer and use within 2 months for best flavor and moisture. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken (Copycat Recipe) in a 350ºF oven, loosely covered with foil to preserve juiciness, until heated through (about 15-20 minutes). Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can make the filling watery and change the texture of the chicken.

FAQs

Can I make Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken (Copycat Recipe) ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the chicken and stuff it with the cheese mixture up to a day in advance. Store it, covered, in your fridge, then bake just before serving for a fuss-free dinner that feels special.

What’s the best way to butterfly a chicken breast?

Lay the breast flat and stabilize it with your palm; use a sharp knife to carefully cut horizontally into the side, stopping about a half inch before the other edge. Take your time to ensure you don’t cut all the way through — practice makes perfect with this step!

Can I use another type of cheese in the filling?

While parmesan and cream cheese give the Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken (Copycat Recipe) its signature taste, feel free to get creative! Asiago, fontina, or a touch of mozzarella can add different textures and flavors if you have them on hand.

How do I know the chicken is cooked through?

The safest and most accurate way is to use a digital instant read thermometer. The thickest part of the chicken should reach at least 165ºF to ensure it’s juicy, tender, and safe to eat.

Can I make this recipe with smaller chicken breasts?

You can, though you’ll get more mini stuffed portions rather than the show-stopping restaurant-size originals. Adjust the filling accordingly and bake for a slightly shorter time, checking with a thermometer as you go.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend making the Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken (Copycat Recipe) highly enough — it’s the kind of dish that makes any meal feel extraordinary, with a rich filling and a burst of citrus that just begs for second helpings. Whether it’s a cozy family night or a special dinner with friends, you’ll be amazed how easy and rewarding recreation of this steakhouse classic can be. Give it a try and let your kitchen fill with the aromas of something truly special!

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