There’s nothing quite like the tantalizing aroma of a home-cooked meal filling your kitchen, especially when that meal brings the comfort of restaurant quality right to your dinner table. After a long week of quick takeout dinners, I was searching for something to reignite my love for cooking, when I decided to recreate a dish reminiscent of the famous Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken. Little did I know, a simple blend of cream cheese, parmesan, and herbs could transform humble chicken breasts into a culinary delight!

This Cream Cheese Chicken is the answer to your weeknight dinner dilemmas—effortlessly elegant yet completely approachable. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy topping baked to golden perfection, making your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone just looking to break free from the monotony of fast food, this recipe offers a delightful mix of flavors and comfort, guaranteed to impress even the pickiest of eaters. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s whip up a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why is Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken so irresistible?

Simplicity at its best: This Cream Cheese Chicken recipe requires only a few easy-to-find ingredients and minimal prep time, making it perfect for any weeknight.

Creamy, dreamy flavors: The blend of cream cheese and parmesan creates an irresistible topping, enhancing the chicken’s natural taste while adding a rich creaminess.

Hearty comfort food: It’s a satisfying dish that offers the cozy warmth of home-cooked meals without the fuss!

Quick and easy: With straightforward baking instructions, you can have a glorious dinner on the table in no time!

Versatile enough for any occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering, this dish is sure to impress all your guests!

With this Cream Cheese Chicken dish, you’ll never have to settle for boring fast food again. Dive into more culinary creativity by exploring our other delightful recipes!

Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken Ingredients

Get ready to delight your taste buds!

For the Chicken

Boneless skinless chicken breasts – perfect for a tender and juicy bite.
Cream cheese – adds a creamy texture and rich flavor that ties the dish together.
Shredded parmesan cheese – brings a nutty taste that elevates the creamy filling.

For the Seasoning

Garlic powder – infuses a warm aroma and depth of flavor into the chicken.
Onion powder – complements the garlic, enhancing the overall savory experience.
Salt – boosts the flavors, making each bite more satisfying.
Dried thyme – adds a lovely herbal note that brightens the dish.

For the Zest and Juice

Lemon – zest and juice will cut through the richness, providing a fresh, tangy contrast.

For the Topping

Butter – drizzling melted butter adds a golden finish and extra flavor.

This Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken recipe is designed to transform your weeknight meals into something special!

How to Make Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray. This will ensure your delicious chicken doesn’t stick!
Mix together the cream cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, dried thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a bowl until it’s smooth and well combined. The mixture should be creamy and full of flavor.
Place the chicken breasts flat in the prepared baking dish and take a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture to spread over the tops. Make sure each breast is fully coated to trap in that cheesy goodness!
Drizzle the melted butter generously over the chicken. This will help achieve that beautiful golden-brown color while enhancing the flavors.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. It should look golden and smell absolutely divine!

Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen and make this recipe your own!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a tasty alternative.
Transforming this dish into a dairy-free delight doesn’t mean you sacrifice flavor!
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream cheese mixture for a zesty twist.
A little heat brings excitement to every bite and liven up your dinner table!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley mixed into the creamy filling for a fragrant upgrade.
Herbs can elevate the taste, providing freshness that dances on your palate.
Stuffed Variation: Add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the cream cheese filling for added texture and flavor depth.
This combination creates a delightful burst of flavor while being beautifully colorful!
Citrus Zing: Swap lemon for lime or orange zest and juice to create a brighter, fruitier version of the dish.
The gentle acidity brings a fresh dimension, making it even more refreshing.
Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed nuts over the chicken before baking for added crunch.
A textural contrast always elevates a dish, making it even more satisfying!
Different Proteins: Swap the chicken for pork chops or salmon fillets for an unexpected twist that’s equally delicious.
Each protein offers a unique experience, allowing you to enjoy this dish in various delightful ways!
Vegetarian Option: Use thick slices of eggplant or zucchini as a base instead of chicken for a hearty plant-based meal.
Veggies can shine beautifully in this recipe, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy it!

Storage Tips for Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will maintain its flavor and moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through; this keeps the creaminess intact while warming it up nicely.

Room Temperature: Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing; leaving it out for more than 2 hours can increase the risk of bacteria growth.

Expert Tips for Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken

Perfect Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches at least 165°F for safety; undercooking can result in dryness.
Even Mixing: Be thorough when mixing the cream cheese filling; lumps can create uneven flavors and textures in your Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken.
Flavor Boost: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the cream cheese mixture for an extra layer of freshness; just a small handful can make a huge difference!
Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps retain juices and enhances flavor, making every bite delightful.
Simple Substitutions: If you don’t have parmesan, goat cheese works beautifully too, adding a unique tanginess that pairs well with lemon.

What to Serve with Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken?

Looking to create a well-rounded meal that pleases everyone at the table?

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These rich and buttery potatoes are the perfect vessel for soaking up the savory juices from the chicken, making each bite a delightful experience.
Garlic Roasted Asparagus: The bright crunch of asparagus paired with roasted garlic brings a fresh, earthy balance to the creaminess of the chicken.
Garden Salad: A light salad drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, helping to cleanse the palate between bites of rich and creamy chicken.
Sautéed Spinach: This lightly wilted spinach, laced with a touch of olive oil and garlic, introduces a warm, vibrant touch that complements the dish beautifully.
Lemon Rice Pilaf: The citrusy notes in the rice will heighten the lemony brightness of the chicken, creating a cohesive and uplifting meal.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay offers a crisp fruitiness that elevates the meal while harmonizing with the creamy flavors of the stuffed chicken.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a luxurious chocolate mousse serves as a decadent finale, contrasting the savory main dish with its smooth and rich sweetness.

Combining these pairings creates a symphony of flavors and textures, ensuring your dining experience is as unforgettable as the Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken itself!

Make Ahead Options

These Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the creamy cheese mixture and spread it over the chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight to maintain freshness and prevent drying. When you’re ready to bake, just drizzle with melted butter and pop it into the oven, cooking as directed. This way, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort when it’s time to serve dinner! Enjoy your time-saving masterpiece that still tastes just as delicious!

Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken, boneless skinless chicken breasts work best. They’re tender and quick to cook, absorbing the flavors of the creamy filling beautifully. Always choose breasts that are plump and free from dark spots or discoloration for the best results.

How long can I store leftovers?
I recommend storing any leftover Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help retain its moisture and flavor. Be sure to let it cool completely before packing it away, as this will prevent condensation, which could make the chicken soggy.

Can I freeze the stuffed chicken?
Very! To freeze your Ruth Chris Stuffed Chicken, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight, and then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through.

What if the chicken doesn’t cook through?
If the chicken isn’t cooking through in the time specified, don’t fret! Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach at least 165°F. If it’s not done yet, place it back in the oven and keep an eye on it, checking every few minutes until the temperature is safe. Also, ensure the oven is at the correct temperature!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! If you or your loved ones have dairy allergies, consider using plant-based cream cheese and nutritional yeast as a substitute for the parmesan. This maintains the spirit of the dish without compromising on flavor. Moreover, always check labels for any hidden allergens if you’re cooking for someone with sensitivities.

Can pets eat this chicken?
While plain, cooked chicken is generally safe for pets, the creamy filling may not be suitable due to ingredients like garlic and onion, which can be harmful to them. Always stick to a plain, unseasoned portion of chicken for your furry friends, and avoid sharing the leftovers from this recipe!