Ruby Tuesday Hickory Bourbon Chicken Recipe

Craving That Ruby Tuesday Magic?

There’s something about the Hickory Bourbon Chicken at Ruby Tuesday that keeps me coming back: the perfect blend of smoky sweetness, the hint of bourbon warmth, and that mouthwatering glaze that clings to every bite.

When I decided to make this at home, I wanted to recreate the same depth of flavor while keeping the process simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The secret? An overnight bourbon-soy marinade that infuses the chicken with rich, layered notes while keeping it perfectly tender.

Whether you’re cooking for family, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself, this recipe gives you all the restaurant indulgence without leaving your kitchen.

Marinade Preparation

The heart of this recipe is the sweet and smoky bourbon marinade, which soaks deeply into the chicken, making every bite flavorful and juicy. Here’s how I make it:

Mixing the Marinade

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, dried minced onion, ground ginger, onion flakes, garlic powder, and bourbon.
   
2. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and all the ingredients are well blended into a smooth, fragrant sauce.
   

Marinating the Chicken

1. Place the chicken breasts in a glass baking dish or a zip-top bag.
   
2. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated generously.
   
3. Seal or cover, then refrigerate overnight (or at least 8 hours) for maximum flavor.
   
4. Turn the chicken halfway through marinating to ensure even seasoning.

Baking the Hickory Bourbon Chicken

When your chicken has soaked up all that flavor, it’s time to bring it to life in the oven.

1. Preheat the oven to 365°F (185°C).
   
2. Remove the chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes.
   
3. Transfer the chicken to an oven-safe baking dish, reserving some marinade for basting.
   
4. Bake for 1 hour, basting the chicken with the reserved marinade every 20 minutes to achieve a sticky, glossy finish.
   
5. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.

Serving and Garnishing

When that golden, sticky chicken comes out of the oven, it’s almost impossible not to dive right in. But trust me,  a few thoughtful touches will elevate your Hickory Bourbon Chicken from “delicious” to restaurant-worthy.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Ruby Tuesday Style: Serve your chicken with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli, allowing the bourbon glaze to drip over the veggies for added flavor.
  
• Low-Carb Option: Pair with roasted asparagus or a fresh garden salad.
  
• Southern Comfort Twist: Add a scoop of creamy mac and cheese or sweet buttered corn on the cob.
  

Garnishing for Flavor and Presentation

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives for a fresh pop of green.
  
• Extra Glaze: Drizzle a spoonful of your thickened bourbon sauce over the top just before serving.
  
• Citrus Kick: Add a wedge of lemon or orange on the side for those who like a bright, tangy contrast.

Storage Instructions

One of the best things about this Hickory Bourbon Chicken is that it tastes just as amazing the next day,  perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

How to Keep It Fresh

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  
• Freezing: For longer storage, wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
  

Reheating Without Drying Out

• Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm for 15–20 minutes.
  
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, basting with leftover glaze if available, to lock in moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make Hickory Bourbon Chicken without bourbon?

Absolutely! If you prefer to skip alcohol, substitute the bourbon with apple juice or chicken broth for a similar depth of flavor without the kick.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate overnight (8–12 hours). If you’re short on time, aim for at least 2 hours to let the marinade work its magic.

3. Can I grill this instead of baking?

Yes! Grilling adds a smoky char that complements the bourbon glaze beautifully. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6–8 minutes per side, basting it often.

4. What type of bourbon works best?

A mid-range bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes (like Maker’s Mark or Wild Turkey) works wonderfully in this recipe. No need for an expensive bottle,  save that for sipping!

5. Can I use bone-in chicken instead?

You can, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in breasts or thighs may take 10–15 minutes longer to bake, so always check with a meat thermometer.

6. How do I make the glaze thicker?

Pour the leftover marinade into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it has reduced and thickened. This creates a rich, sticky glaze perfect for brushing over the chicken before serving.

Conclusion

Bringing the taste of Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken into your home is simpler than you think. With its sweet bourbon glaze, smoky undertones, and juicy chicken, this recipe hits all the right notes for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner.

The key is patience with the marinade. Whether you serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, crisp greens, or Southern sides, this dish delivers that same restaurant magic you love, without ever stepping out the door.

So grab your ingredients, pour yourself a splash of bourbon, and let’s make dinner unforgettable.