Ruby Tuesday Bourbon Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful Twist On A Classic Dish

Welcome to the realm of flavors, where savory and sweet collide in a delightful dance of culinary delight. Today, we embark on a journey to recreate the iconic Ruby Tuesday Bourbon Chicken recipe, a dish that has captured the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts worldwide. As we explore the nuances of this recipe, you’ll discover the secrets behind its irresistible taste, making it a star in the world of chicken dishes.

Ingredients:

To embark on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Create the Bourbon Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
• Pour in the bourbon and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
• Add the chicken broth, brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and salt.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Thicken the Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
• Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the thickened sauce.
• Stir gently to coat the chicken evenly.
• Let the mixture simmer for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Transfer the Ruby Tuesday Bourbon Chicken to a serving dish.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for an extra pop of color.
• Serve over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite sides.

Tips for a Perfect Ruby Tuesday Bourbon Chicken:

• Chicken Selection: Use high-quality chicken breasts or thighs for the best flavor and texture.
• Cooking the Chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken until it’s golden brown on all sides before removing it from the skillet. This step adds depth to the flavor.
• Bourbon Whiskey: Choose a good-quality bourbon whiskey for the sauce. The quality of the bourbon will directly impact the overall taste of the dish.
• Simmering the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 10 minutes to develop a rich and flavorful taste.
• Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, adjust the amount of cornstarch and water used. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you reach the desired consistency.
• Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or green onions adds a vibrant touch and enhances the dish’s presentation.

Variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist.
• Vegetable Medley: Stir in a variety of chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli along with the chicken.
• Pineapple Delight: Add some diced pineapple chunks to the sauce for a sweet and tangy variation.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top of the finished dish for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions:

• Steamed Rice: Serve the Ruby Tuesday Bourbon Chicken over fluffy steamed rice for a classic pairing.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base for the savory chicken and sauce.
• Noodles: Try serving the dish over cooked noodles like ramen or egg noodles for a filling meal.
• Salad: Balance the richness of the chicken with a fresh and crisp salad on the side.

“A Culinary Symphony: The Ruby Tuesday Bourbon Chicken Experience”

As you savor each bite of this Ruby Tuesday Bourbon Chicken, let the symphony of flavors dance on your palate. The tender chicken, infused with the aromatic bourbon sauce, creates a harmonious blend that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, this dish is sure to impress and delight.

Popular Questions

1. Can I use a different type of whiskey instead of bourbon?

Yes, you can use other types of whiskey, such as rye or scotch, but the flavor profile may vary slightly.

2. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. Brown the chicken and cook the sauce according to the recipe, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

3. How can I make the sauce thicker?

You can add more cornstarch and water to the sauce, or you can simmer it for a longer period of time to reduce it.

4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or broccoli to the sauce along with the chicken.

5. What are some good side dishes to serve with this dish?

Steamed rice, mashed potatoes, noodles, or a fresh salad are all great options.