There’s nothing quite like the feeling of transforming a simple chicken breast into a gourmet delight right in your own kitchen. When I first discovered Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken, I was entranced by the enticing aroma of savory herbs and creamy cheese wafting through the air. Imagine pulling a perfectly stuffed chicken from the oven, its golden-brown exterior giving way to a meltingly tender filling that bursts with flavor. Best of all, this copycat version is so easy to make that any home cook can replicate the restaurant magic.

After a hectic day, the last thing I want to do is navigate a complicated recipe, which is why I love this one. It’s not only simplistic but an absolute crowd-pleaser! You can serve it beautifully for a special occasion or enjoy it on a cozy weeknight. So grab your aprons, and let’s dive into this creamy herb delight that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why is Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat irresistible?

Simplicity is key: This dish is approachable, perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks.
Creamy, Flavorful Filling: The blend of cream cheese, spinach, and herbs creates a luxurious stuffing that elevates chicken to gourmet status.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for dinner parties or family meals, everyone will be raving about this culinary delight!
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize the cheese and herbs based on your preferences; there’s no wrong way to enjoy this!
Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe guarantees satisfaction with minimal fuss, making it a staple in your cooking repertoire. Don’t forget to pair it with some garlic mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal!

Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The foundation of this dish; keep them evenly sized for uniform cooking.
• Olive Oil – Essential for searing and locking in moisture, elevating flavors like no other.

For the Creamy Filling
• Cream Cheese – Softened for easy mixing, it adds a delightful creaminess that makes the stuffing rich.
• Spinach – Fresh is best for taste and nutrition; wilted spinach can also work if that’s what you have on hand.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Provides gooeyness when baked; feeling adventurous? Try gouda for a smoky twist!
• Garlic Powder – A must-have for flavor enhancement that brings everything together beautifully.
• Italian Seasoning – A fragrant blend that lifts the dish; swap it for your favorite herbs to personalize it.

For Baking
• Chicken Broth – Low sodium is preferred to enhance flavor without added salt; it keeps your chicken moist as it cooks.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the entire dish with a splash of fresh zest; don’t skip this secret ingredient!
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds an extra layer of richness and complexity; sprinkle liberally for finishing touch.

This Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat is not only a satisfying meal but a delightful experience that transforms everyday chicken into something extraordinary!

How to Make Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken

Prep Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast, ensuring you don’t slice all the way through so the filling stays inside.
Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, fresh spinach, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until everything is well blended and creamy.
Stuff Breasts: Generously fill the chicken pockets with the creamy filling. Use toothpicks to secure the openings, ensuring no delicious filling escapes during cooking.
Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown both sides of the stuffed chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes, until they’re golden brown and irresistibly fragrant.
Bake: Transfer the chicken to a baking dish, pouring chicken broth around them. Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Garnish: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Let them rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices before slicing and serving.

Optional: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful, nutritious plate.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat?

Building a delightful meal around this creamy herb chicken can elevate your dining experience to new heights.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes soak up the savory chicken juices, creating a comforting side that’s always a hit.
Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and balsamic vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the stuffed chicken.
Roasted Vegetables: Vibrant roasted veggies add color and nutrition, giving your plate a well-balanced and hearty touch.
Herb-Infused Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with fresh herbs complements the chicken’s flavors while offering a delightful texture to the meal.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds a lovely crunch and a hint of smokiness that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the chicken.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts: These can be roasted to perfection, providing a satisfying crunch and a slightly nutty flavor that rounds out the meal delightfully.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink option balances the richness of the chicken and ties the meal together with a zesty finish.
Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a creamy chocolate mousse, offering a luxurious contrast to the savory main dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen on busy weeknights! You can prepare the creamy filling (cream cheese, spinach, mozzarella, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can stuff the chicken breasts a day ahead, ensuring they stay fresh and flavorful. When ready to cook, simply sear and bake as directed. To maintain the chicken’s juiciness, be sure to wrap it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to finish cooking. This makes enjoying a gourmet meal at home easy and delicious!

Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful tweaks that will make this dish uniquely yours, blending creativity with comfort!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew or almond cream for a creamy texture.
Spinach Swap: Use kale or arugula instead of spinach for a different green with a peppery bite. The richness of the filling will still shine through.
Cheese Variety: Change mozzarella to pepper jack for a spicy kick or feta for a tangy twist. Each cheese brings a new flavor dynamic!
Herb Explosion: Incorporate fresh basil or thyme into the filling for an aromatic lift. Their essence will elevate the stuffed chicken to another level.
Nutty Texture: Mix in some toasted pine nuts or crushed walnuts to the filling for added crunch and a delightful contrast to the creamy center.
Zesty Surprise: Add a splash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the filling for those who crave heat. This brings a tantalizing zing to each bite!
Mushroom Infusion: Sautéed mushrooms mixed into the stuffing create a deep umami flavor that complements the chicken beautifully. It’s a hearty addition!
Sweet Twist: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or cranberries for a hint of sweetness, giving a pleasing contrast to the savory notes.

Enjoy the process of making this dish your own while savoring every delicious bite!

How to Store and Freeze Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze stuffed chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To maintain texture and flavor, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may dry out the chicken.

Serving: When ready to serve, consider garnishing with fresh parsley or more Parmesan for a touch of elegance! Enjoy this comforting dish all over again.

Expert Tips for Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat

Don’t Rush Searing: Searing your chicken is crucial for enhancing flavor; take your time to achieve that golden-brown crust.
Check with Thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for juicy, tender chicken.
Rest for Juiciness: Allow the stuffed chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This step ensures that the juices redistribute, keeping every bite moist.
Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or herbs to create your perfect version of this stuffed chicken dish.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and herbs greatly enhance the flavor and texture of the creamy filling in your Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat.

Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting boneless, skinless chicken breasts, look for pieces that are plump and even in size. Choose breasts with a light pink color, avoiding any with dark spots. Fresh chicken should have little to no odor. It’s important to buy high-quality meat for the best flavor and texture in your stuffed chicken.

How should I store leftovers of Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat?
Very simple! Store any leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the chicken cool completely before sealing it up to avoid moisture buildup, which can affect its texture.

Can I freeze Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat?
Absolutely! For longer storage, wrap the stuffed chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight freezer bag or container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. After thawing, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed completely, ensuring it maintains its delicious flavor and texture.

What should I do if my filling is too runny or too thick?
Don’t worry, common issues happen! If your filling is too runny, consider adding a bit more cream cheese or shredded mozzarella to help thicken it up. Mixing in breadcrumbs can also help absorb extra moisture while adding texture. Conversely, if your filling is too thick to spoon easily into the chicken, add a little olive oil or lemon juice, mixing it in gradually until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can this recipe be made vegetarian-friendly?
Very much so! To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with large portobello mushrooms or even zucchini boats. You can also double the filling ingredients, using more spinach and adding chopped bell peppers or artichokes for a hearty, flavor-packed stuffing. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!

Is it safe to serve leftover stuffed chicken to my pets?
For the safety of your furry friends, it’s best not to share leftover Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken Copycat with them. While chicken is safe in moderation, the other ingredients may not be suitable for pets, especially cheese and seasoning. Always check with your veterinarian regarding what foods are safe to share with your pets.