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Ruth’s Chris Chicken and Green Bean Bake

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Ruth’s Chris Chicken and Green Bean Bake

Description

Ruth’s Chris Chicken and Green Bean Bake is a rich, comforting casserole inspired by the steakhouse’s creamy, buttery flavors. Tender chicken breasts are baked with fresh green beans in a savory Parmesan cream sauce and topped with melted mozzarella and crispy bacon. This easy one-pan dinner is perfect for weeknight meals, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50–55 minutes

Servings

  • Serves: 6 people

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 pounds chicken tenderloins)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Green Beans

  • 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Cream Sauce

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Topping

  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 3

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned (it doesn’t need to cook through).

Transfer to a baking dish.

Step 4

In the same skillet, melt butter.

Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Stir in green beans and cook for about 3 minutes.

Arrange around the chicken.

Step 5

In a bowl combine:

  • Cream cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Heavy cream
  • Parmesan
  • Dijon mustard
  • Garlic powder
  • Black pepper

Mix until smooth.

Step 6

Spread cream sauce evenly over the chicken and green beans.

Step 7

Sprinkle mozzarella over the top.

Add crumbled bacon.

Step 8

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 9

Broil for 2–3 minutes until the cheese becomes golden and bubbly.

Step 10

Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Chef’s Notes

  • Fresh green beans provide the best texture.
  • Chicken thighs can be substituted for juicier meat.
  • For extra richness, add a tablespoon of butter to the cream sauce.
  • Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.

Tips for Success

  • Pat chicken dry before seasoning for better browning.
  • Avoid overcooking the green beans before baking.
  • Use room-temperature cream cheese to prevent lumps.
  • Let the cheese brown slightly for extra flavor.
  • Cook bacon until crisp so it stays crunchy after baking.
  • Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Storage

Refrigerator

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

  • Freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

  • Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat individual portions for 2–3 minutes, stirring the sauce if needed.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

  • Calories: 560
  • Protein: 43 g
  • Fat: 39 g
  • Carbohydrates: 9 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Saturated Fat: 19 g
  • Cholesterol: 170 mg
  • Sodium: 760 mg
  • Calcium: 260 mg

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Health Benefits

  • High in protein: Supports muscle growth and helps keep you feeling full.
  • Green beans: Provide fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants.
  • Calcium-rich: Parmesan and mozzarella contribute calcium for bone health.
  • Low in carbohydrates: Suitable for many lower-carb eating plans.
  • Healthy fats: Olive oil provides mostly unsaturated fats.
  • Comforting and satisfying: A hearty meal that pairs well with a simple salad or roasted vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

  • Garlic mashed potatoes
  • Buttered rice
  • Roasted asparagus
  • Caesar salad
  • Dinner rolls
  • Steamed broccoli
  • Roasted carrots

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

1. Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes. Thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture.

2. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

3. Can I use chicken thighs?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs are flavorful and stay juicy during baking.

4. How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the thickest part should reach 165°F (74°C).

5. Can I make it without bacon?

Yes. The casserole is still flavorful without it, or you can replace it with turkey bacon for a lighter option.

6. Can I add mushrooms?

Yes. Sauté sliced mushrooms before adding them to the casserole for extra flavor.

7. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes. Monterey Jack, provolone, cheddar, or Gruyère all work well.

8. Why is my sauce too thick?

Whisk in a little extra heavy cream or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

9. Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be, provided all packaged ingredients (such as Dijon mustard and bacon) are certified gluten-free.

10. What leftovers pair well with?

Leftovers are delicious with pasta, rice, cauliflower rice, or even spooned over baked potatoes.

Recipe Summary

This Ruth’s Chris-inspired Chicken and Green Bean Bake combines juicy seasoned chicken, crisp-tender green beans, a creamy Parmesan sauce, gooey melted mozzarella, and crispy bacon in one comforting casserole. It’s easy to prepare, family-friendly, and ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions, delivering rich steakhouse-inspired flavors in a simple homemade dish.

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