Imagine yourself sitting in a cozy booth at Ruby Tuesday, surrounded by the warm ambiance of the restaurant. The smell of sizzling chicken and smoky barbecue sauce fills the air, making your mouth water in anticipation. You eagerly await the arrival of your favorite dish – the Smokey Mountain Chicken. The tender grilled chicken topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and tangy barbecue sauce is a flavor explosion that never fails to satisfy your cravings.
Tastes Just Like the Original
This homemade version of Ruby Tuesday’s Smokey Mountain Chicken tastes just like the original, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish in the comfort of your own home. With the right ingredients and cooking techniques, you can recreate the magic of this restaurant favorite and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.
Reasons to Make Smokey Mountain Chicken
- It’s a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings and dinner parties.
- The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible.
- It’s a quick and easy dish to make for busy weeknights.
- You can customize the toppings to suit your preferences.
Why My Family Loves This Meal
Every time I make Smokey Mountain Chicken for my family, it’s like a special occasion. The savory chicken, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon never fail to put a smile on their faces. It’s a dish that brings us together around the dinner table, creating lasting memories and moments of joy.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – provides the base for the dish
- 1 cup barbecue sauce – adds a tangy flavor to the chicken
- 8 slices of bacon – adds a crispy and smoky element
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – melts beautifully on top of the chicken
- Salt and pepper to taste – enhances the overall flavor
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure to season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This will ensure that the chicken is well-seasoned and flavorful. You can also pre-cook the bacon until crispy and shred the cheddar cheese for easy assembly later on.
Cutting Techniques
When cutting the chicken breasts, make sure to slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This will help the chicken cook more evenly and quickly on the grill. Additionally, you can cut the bacon into smaller pieces to ensure that each bite has a perfect balance of flavors.
Kitchen Tools Required
- Grill or grill pan – for cooking the chicken
- Skillet – for cooking the bacon
- Cheese grater – for shredding the cheddar cheese
- Tongs – for flipping the chicken on the grill
Common Issues and Solutions
If the chicken breasts are too thick, you can pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This will help the chicken cook more evenly and prevent dryness. If the cheese is not melting properly, you can cover the chicken with a lid or foil to create a steamy environment that will melt the cheese faster.
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the seasoned chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Top each chicken breast with barbecue sauce, bacon, and cheddar cheese.
- Cover the grill and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfect Results
Make sure to monitor the grill temperature to prevent burning the chicken. You can also baste the chicken with barbecue sauce while grilling for extra flavor. Serve the Smokey Mountain Chicken with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes or coleslaw, for a complete meal.
Alternative Ways to Customize
- Swap the barbecue sauce for honey mustard or ranch dressing for a different flavor profile.
- Use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon for a healthier twist on the classic recipe.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique twist.
Final Thoughts
By following this comprehensive guide, you can recreate the delicious flavors of Ruby Tuesday’s Smokey Mountain Chicken in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a taste of restaurant-quality dining at home. Bon appétit!
