When it comes to dining out, one of the most popular chain restaurants in the United States is Ruby Tuesday. Known for their extensive garden bar and wide variety of American classics, Ruby Tuesday has been a staple in the dining scene for decades. One of their signature dishes that has garnered a lot of attention and admiration is the Hickory Bourbon Chicken. This dish, marinated in a sweet and tangy bourbon sauce and grilled to perfection, has become a favorite among many Ruby Tuesday patrons. However, for those who are watching their calorie intake, the question remains: how many calories are in Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken?
Introduction to Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken
The Hickory Bourbon Chicken is a mouth-watering dish that features a chicken breast, marinated in a special blend of herbs and spices, and then grilled to perfection. The chicken is served with a side of their signature bourbon sauce, which is made with a blend of bourbon, honey, and spices. This dish is not only delicious, but it is also visually appealing, making it a popular choice among diners. However, with the rise of health consciousness, many people are now more mindful of the calorie content of the foods they eat. In this article, we will delve into the calorie content of Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken and explore ways to make it a healthier option.
Nutritional Information
According to Ruby Tuesday’s nutrition information, the Hickory Bourbon Chicken contains a significant amount of calories. A single serving of the dish, which includes a 6-ounce chicken breast and a side of bourbon sauce, contains approximately 740 calories. This calorie count is relatively high, especially for those who are watching their weight or managing certain health conditions. However, it is essential to note that this calorie count can vary depending on the size of the chicken breast and the amount of bourbon sauce used.
Breakdown of Nutrients
In addition to calories, the Hickory Bourbon Chicken also contains a significant amount of other nutrients. A single serving of the dish contains:
- 34 grams of fat, with 10 grams being saturated fat
- 40 grams of protein, making it an excellent option for those looking to increase their protein intake
- 40 grams of carbohydrates, with 10 grams being sugar
- 1040 milligrams of sodium, which is approximately 43% of the daily recommended intake
Health Considerations
While the Hickory Bourbon Chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish, it is essential to consider the health implications of consuming such a high-calorie meal. For those who are watching their weight, a single serving of the dish accounts for approximately 37% of the daily recommended calorie intake. Additionally, the high fat and sodium content of the dish can be a concern for those with certain health conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure.
Ways to Make it Healthier
However, there are ways to make the Hickory Bourbon Chicken a healthier option. Some suggestions include:
- Opting for a smaller chicken breast, which can reduce the calorie count of the dish
- Requesting less bourbon sauce, which can reduce the sugar and calorie content of the dish
- Choosing a side of steamed vegetables, which can increase the nutrient density of the meal
- Pairing the dish with a side salad, which can provide a boost of fiber and vitamins
Modifying the Recipe
For those who want to make the Hickory Bourbon Chicken at home, there are ways to modify the recipe to make it healthier. Some suggestions include:
- Using leaner protein sources, such as chicken breast or turkey breast
- Reducing the amount of sugar in the bourbon sauce
- Increasing the amount of herbs and spices, which can add flavor without adding calories
- Grilling the chicken, which can reduce the fat content of the dish
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish that contains a significant amount of calories. While it can be a concern for those who are watching their weight or managing certain health conditions, there are ways to make the dish healthier. By opting for a smaller chicken breast, requesting less bourbon sauce, and choosing a side of steamed vegetables, diners can reduce the calorie count of the meal. Additionally, modifying the recipe at home can also make the dish a healthier option. Whether you’re a health enthusiast or just a foodie, the Hickory Bourbon Chicken is a dish that is worth trying, and with a few simple modifications, it can be a guilt-free indulgence.
To provide a comprehensive overview of the nutritional content of Ruby Tuesday’s menu items, including the Hickory Bourbon Chicken, the following table summarizes the key nutritional information:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 740 |
| Fat | 34g |
| Protein | 40g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Sodium | 1040mg |
Ultimately, the key to enjoying the Hickory Bourbon Chicken, or any other high-calorie dish, is moderation. By being mindful of the calorie content and making a few simple modifications, diners can indulge in this delicious dish without compromising their health goals. Whether you’re a fan of Ruby Tuesday or just looking for a new recipe to try, the Hickory Bourbon Chicken is a dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
What is Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken?
Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken is a popular menu item at the American casual dining restaurant chain. The dish features a grilled chicken breast smothered in a rich and tangy hickory bourbon sauce, made with a blend of hickory smoke flavor, bourbon whiskey, and spices. The chicken is typically served with a side of two vegetables, such as mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli, or a salad. The combination of the juicy chicken, the flavorful sauce, and the accompanying sides makes for a satisfying and filling meal.
The Hickory Bourbon Chicken is one of Ruby Tuesday’s signature dishes, and its popularity can be attributed to the unique blend of flavors in the sauce. The hickory smoke flavor adds a deep, smoky taste, while the bourbon whiskey gives the sauce a slightly sweet and tangy flavor. The sauce is also made with a variety of spices, including garlic, onion, and paprika, which add depth and complexity to the dish. Overall, Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying meal option that is sure to please a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.
What are the nutritional facts of Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken?
The nutritional facts of Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken vary depending on the specific preparation method and the sides that are chosen. According to Ruby Tuesday’s nutrition information, a serving of the Hickory Bourbon Chicken without sides contains approximately 540 calories, 24 grams of fat, 35 grams of protein, and 30 grams of carbohydrates. The dish is also relatively high in sodium, with approximately 1,200 milligrams per serving. It’s worth noting that these nutritional facts can vary depending on the specific ingredients and preparation methods used at each Ruby Tuesday location.
To put these nutritional facts into perspective, a serving of the Hickory Bourbon Chicken WITHOUT sides accounts for approximately 27% of the recommended daily intake of fat, 58% of the recommended daily intake of protein, and 10% of the recommended daily intake of carbohydrates. The dish is also relatively high in calories, accounting for approximately 27% of the recommended daily intake. However, it’s worth noting that the nutritional facts can be mitigated by choosing healthier sides, such as a salad or steamed vegetables, and by being mindful of portion sizes. By making a few simple modifications, the Hickory Bourbon Chicken can be a nutritious and balanced meal option.
Is Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken a healthy meal option?
While Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken can be a part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation, it is not necessarily a healthy meal option on its own. The dish is relatively high in calories, fat, and sodium, which can be a concern for individuals who are watching their weight or managing certain health conditions. Additionally, the hickory bourbon sauce is high in sugar and refined carbohydrates, which can be detrimental to overall health when consumed excessively.
However, there are ways to make the Hickory Bourbon Chicken a healthier meal option. Choosing healthier sides, such as a salad or steamed vegetables, can help to balance out the nutritional facts of the dish. Additionally, being mindful of portion sizes and avoiding overconsumption of the hickory bourbon sauce can help to mitigate the negative health effects. It’s also worth noting that the chicken breast itself is a lean protein source, which can be beneficial for individuals who are looking to increase their protein intake. By making a few simple modifications and being mindful of nutritional facts, the Hickory Bourbon Chicken can be a relatively healthy meal option.
Can I customize Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken to suit my dietary needs?
Yes, Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken can be customized to suit a variety of dietary needs and preferences. For example, individuals who are watching their calorie intake can ask for the hickory bourbon sauce to be served on the side, allowing them to control the amount of sauce that is added to the dish. Additionally, individuals who are managing certain health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, can ask for modifications to be made to the dish, such as reducing the amount of sodium or sugar in the sauce.
Ruby Tuesday also offers a variety of sides that can be chosen to accompany the Hickory Bourbon Chicken, allowing individuals to customize their meal to suit their dietary needs. For example, individuals who are looking to increase their fiber intake can choose a side of steamed broccoli or a salad, while individuals who are looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake can choose a side of mashed potatoes or a side salad with a light vinaigrette. By customizing the dish and choosing healthier sides, individuals can make the Hickory Bourbon Chicken a nutritious and balanced meal option that suits their unique dietary needs and preferences.
How does Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken compare to other menu items in terms of calorie and nutrient content?
Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken is a relatively high-calorie menu item compared to other options on the menu. According to Ruby Tuesday’s nutrition information, the Hickory Bourbon Chicken contains approximately 540 calories per serving, which is higher than many other menu items, such as the Grilled Chicken Salad ( approximately 340 calories per serving) or the Chicken Quesadilla (approximately 440 calories per serving). However, the dish is also relatively high in protein and fiber, making it a more nutritious option compared to some other menu items.
In terms of nutrient content, the Hickory Bourbon Chicken is a good source of protein, fiber, and certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B6 and niacin. However, the dish is also relatively high in sodium and saturated fat, which can be a concern for individuals who are watching their weight or managing certain health conditions. Compared to other menu items, the Hickory Bourbon Chicken is a relatively balanced meal option that provides a good mix of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. By choosing healthier sides and being mindful of portion sizes, individuals can make the Hickory Bourbon Chicken a nutritious and balanced meal option that suits their unique dietary needs and preferences.
Can I make a version of Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken at home?
Yes, it is possible to make a version of Ruby Tuesday’s Hickory Bourbon Chicken at home. The dish can be replicated by marinating chicken breasts in a mixture of hickory smoke flavor, bourbon whiskey, and spices, and then grilling or baking the chicken until it is cooked through. The hickory bourbon sauce can also be made at home by combining a variety of ingredients, such as ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and spices, and then simmering the mixture until it is thick and syrupy.
To make a version of the Hickory Bourbon Chicken at home, individuals can start by marinating chicken breasts in a mixture of 1/4 cup of bourbon whiskey, 1/4 cup of hickory smoke flavor, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. The chicken can then be grilled or baked until it is cooked through, and the hickory bourbon sauce can be made by combining 1 cup of ketchup, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. By following these simple steps, individuals can make a delicious and flavorful version of the Hickory Bourbon Chicken at home that is similar to the restaurant version.