Introduction

Imagine savoring a dish that is as delightful as a night out at a fancy restaurant but made right in your own kitchen. Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken brings that luxurious dining experience to your dinner table with a beautiful blend of flavors and textures. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also guarantees a meal that will impress family and friends alike.

Perfect for a cozy family night or an elegant dinner party, this stuffed chicken is the epitome of comfort food. With its juicy chicken breast filled with cheesy goodness and the aroma of fresh herbs wafting through the kitchen, it's a meal that warms the heart. Let’s dive into the world of culinary delight with this irresistible stuffed chicken recipe!

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Chicken breasts serve as the perfect canvas for stuffing, providing a juicy and tender texture that easily absorbs surrounding flavors.
1 cup creamy ricotta cheese
Ricotta adds a rich creaminess to the filling, balancing the savory flavors with its mild, slightly sweet taste. It also helps to keep the stuffing moist.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella brings a delightful stretch and melt to the dish, enhancing the cheesy goodness of the stuffing while providing a lovely golden crust when baked.
1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped
Fresh spinach not only adds a splash of color but introduces a nutritious element and subtle earthiness that complements the rich cheeses.
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Sun-dried tomatoes contribute a tangy sweetness and a concentrated flavor that elevates the stuffing, making each bite incredibly flavorful.
2 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic is a key flavor enhancer, imparting a warm, aromatic essence that infuses the chicken and stuffing with depth.
1 teaspoon dried oregano
This herb offers a hint of Mediterranean flavor, which pairs beautifully with the chicken and complements the savory notes of the filling.
Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning is crucial for balancing flavors, allowing the ingredients' natural tastes to shine through while preventing blandness.
Olive oil for drizzling
Olive oil adds richness and aids in achieving that golden brown exterior, while also contributing a fruity undertone to the dish.
1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
Breadcrumbs are essential for creating a delightful crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy stuffing, adding texture to every bite.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Preheating the oven ensures an even cooking temperature from the start, allowing the chicken to cook thoroughly without drying out. This step is vital for achieving the perfect texture.

Step 2: Prepare the stuffing by mixing ricotta, mozzarella, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Combining these ingredients well ensures that every bite of your stuffed chicken is bursting with flavor. The rich cheeses, fresh veggies, and savory seasonings create a harmonious blend that will tantalize your taste buds.

Step 3: Make a pocket in each chicken breast using a sharp knife, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Creating a pocket is crucial for holding the stuffing securely. This technique allows the chicken to cook evenly while ensuring the stuffing doesn't spill out, resulting in a beautifully presented dish.

Step 4: Stuff each chicken breast with the filling, pressing gently to secure it inside. Use toothpicks to seal the openings if necessary.

Properly stuffing the chicken is essential for maximizing flavor. Making sure the filling is packed inside will help keep it juicy and ensure the flavors meld during cooking.

Step 5: Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added texture.

The olive oil helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust, while breadcrumbs provide that satisfying crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy filling.

Step 6: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Baking transforms the chicken into a juicy, flavorful dish. The key is to monitor the internal temperature, which ensures food safety and optimum texture, allowing the chicken to finish cooking perfectly.

Step 7: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Resting is a vital step that allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in a tender and succulent final product. Cutting too soon can lead to loss of moisture.

Step 8: Serve warm and enjoy your homemade Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken!

Serving the chicken warm enhances flavor and allows the stuffing to express its delightful aromas. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.

Mouthwatering Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken - An Easy Recipe for Dinner Night! step photo

The Perfect Cheese Blend for Flavor

When it comes to stuffing chicken, the choice of cheese can make or break the dish. Combining ricotta and mozzarella not only brings a creamy and stretchy texture, but also a rich flavor profile that harmonizes beautifully with the fresh ingredients. This cheesy mixture ensures every bite is indulgent and keeps the chicken moist during baking.

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Incorporating fresh ingredients like spinach and sun-dried tomatoes not only enhances visual appeal but elevates flavor complexity. Spinach offers a subtle depth, while sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of concentrated sweetness. Using fresh components in the stuffing helps you create a healthier dish that still feels indulgent, bringing a restaurant-quality meal straight to your home.

Expert Tips for Perfectly Stuffed Chicken

To ensure that your chicken cooks evenly, it’s essential to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before stuffing. This practice helps them cook uniformly and reduces the risk of dry edges. Additionally, securing the pockets with toothpicks prevents any delicious stuffing from escaping during cooking, ensuring the flavors stay locked inside.

FAQs

What should I do if the stuffing spills out during baking?

If stuffing spills out, it typically means the pocket wasn't secure enough. In the future, make sure to properly seal the opening with toothpicks or string to keep the stuffing contained.

Can I substitute the spinach with another green?

Yes, you can use kale or arugula instead of spinach. Both will impart unique flavors and maintain the dish's freshness.

What can I do if my stuffing is too dry?

If your stuffing turns out too dry, consider adding extra ricotta or a splash of olive oil next time. This will help maintain moisture and improve texture.

How can I make this dish spicier?

For added heat, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the stuffing. Adjust based on your heat preference.

Is there a way to prepare this recipe for a larger group?

Absolutely! To scale this recipe, simply increase the quantities of ingredients while ensuring you have enough baking dishes to accommodate all the stuffed chicken breasts.

What should I do if my chicken breasts are unevenly thick?

If your chicken breasts vary greatly in thickness, pound them with a meat mallet to an even thickness. This ensures they cook uniformly and avoid overcooking or drying out.

Conclusion

Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the feeling of dining out into your home. The combination of creamy cheese, fresh veggies, and perfectly cooked chicken creates a dish that delights every palate, transforming your dinner night into a special occasion.

Once you master this recipe, feel free to experiment with fillings and flavors to create your variations. Each time can be a new adventure, leading to delicious outcomes that you and your loved ones will enjoy for years to come.

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