Ruby Tuesday Chicken And Broccoli Pasta Recipe Copycat

It’s time to embrace the comforting classic dish of chicken and broccoli. We’ll help you recreate a restaurant favorite at home: The Ruby Tuesday Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe!

This cherished dish, a staple from the beloved American casual dining restaurant chain, combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy pasta in a way that takes your tastebuds home. It’s a great way to bring a piece of Ruby Tuesday’s charm into your own kitchen.

Whether you’re a fan of the Ruby Tuesday menu or you just love a good pasta dish, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients

The Essential Ingredients
Every great recipe starts with a list of ingredients. For this Ruby Tuesday Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe, you’ll need chicken breasts or chicken tenders, fresh broccoli florets, penne pasta, parmesan cheese, heavy whipping cream, skim milk, garlic salt, black pepper, onion powder, chicken seasoning, and a few more pantry staples.

These ingredients ensure that each bite is packed with flavor, living up to the Ruby Tuesday recipes legacy.

Choosing Quality Ingredients
The quality of ingredients plays a huge role in the final taste of the dish. Always reach for grass-fed butter for richness, fresh broccoli for a crisp texture, and high-quality organic chicken breasts to ensure tenderness.

Even something simple, like using freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties can also improve the taste. 

Kitchen Tools

Must-Have Kitchen Tools
To bring this Ruby Tuesday Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe to life, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials. A large pot is crucial for cooking the pasta to al dente perfection. A large skillet is necessary for achieving that perfect pan-sear on the chicken. Measuring cups, spoons, and a colander will also play key roles.

Step by Step

Preparing the Ingredients
Begin by prepping your ingredients. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with garlic salt, pepper, onion powder, and chicken seasoning.

Chop the fresh broccoli into florets, ensuring they are small enough to cook quickly yet large enough to retain their texture.

Measure out your penne pasta and get your parmesan cheese ready for grating. This prep work is a key step in any great recipe!

The Cooking Process
Start by boiling a large pot of salty water. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente.

In the meantime, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a dash of olive oil. Pan sear the seasoned chicken pieces until golden and cooked through.

Once the pasta is done, use the same pot to lightly boil the broccoli, maintaining its vibrant color and crisp texture. These steps are all about timing and precision, ensuring each component of the dish is cooked perfectly.

Assembling the Dish
Finally, it’s time to bring it all together. In the large skillet with the chicken, add heavy whipping cream, skim milk, and grated parmesan cheese to create the luxurious parmesan cream sauce.

Let the sauce simmer until it thickens. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli, giving everything a good stir to ensure the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. Your kitchen smells amazing right about now!

Sidestepping Slip-ups

Pasta Pitfalls
A common mistake when making the Ruby Tuesday Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is overcooking the pasta. Pasta that’s too soft can ruin the texture of the dish. To avoid this, cook the pasta only until it’s al dente, and remember it will continue to cook slightly when added to the hot sauce. Also, be sure to use a large pot of boiling, salted water for the pasta to prevent sticking and to enhance its flavor.

Chicken Challenges
Another area where errors often occur is with the chicken. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough meat, while undercooking poses health risks. To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a thermometer to check that it’s reached the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Also, avoid crowding the chicken in the skillet; cook in batches if necessary. This ensures each piece is evenly browned and cooked through.

Sauce Issues
The parmesan cream sauce is the heart of this Ruby Tuesday Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe, so getting it right is everything. A common mistake is not allowing the sauce to thicken properly, leading to a runny consistency. Take your time and let it simmer until it reaches the desired thickness.

Also, remember to add the cheese gradually while continuously stirring to prevent clumping. If you follow these steps, your sauce will be velvety and rich, just like the original Ruby Tuesday recipes!

Sides and Sips for Your Ruby Tuesday Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

When it comes to complementing your Ruby Tuesday chicken and broccoli pasta recipe, the right sides and drinks can take this great dish to a whole new level. Think of sides that contrast with the creamy, savory notes of the pasta.

A crisp, fresh salad, perhaps inspired by the Ruby Tuesday salad bar, can offer a refreshing counterpoint.

Or, for something warm, garlic bread or steamed vegetables like asparagus or carrots make excellent companions.

As for drinks, the richness of the Ruby Tuesday chicken and broccoli pasta recipe pairs well with a variety of beverages. A light, crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay complements the creamy parmesan sauce beautifully.

For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling water with a twist of lemon to cleanse the palate between bites. This combination not only caters to the taste buds but also balances your daily diet with a mix of textures and flavors.

Recipe Remix: Variations on Your Ruby Tuesday Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

One of the joys of cooking restaurant-quality recipes at home is that you have the freedom to tweak and modify recipes to suit your taste needs. The Ruby Tuesday chicken and broccoli pasta recipe can be change up quite easily.

For a gluten-free version, simply switch out the penne pasta with your preferred gluten-free pasta. The taste and texture won’t hardly be changed, and it’s a great way to include everyone at the dinner table.

If you’re looking to add more protein or different flavors, consider using rotisserie chicken instead of chicken breasts. The seasoned, roasted flavor of the rotisserie chicken adds depth and can save time in the kitchen.

For vegetarians, take out the chicken and add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. This variation adds color, texture, and flavor to the dish.

Lastly, if you want to spice it up, adding a dash of chili flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the parmesan cream sauce can give it an exciting kick!

These simple tweaks can transform the Ruby Tuesday chicken and broccoli pasta recipe into your own version, catering to your family’s preferences and dietary requirements!

Storing and Reheating Your Pasta

To store leftovers, wait for the pasta to cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta, though this might slightly alter the texture of the broccoli and pasta.

When it comes to reheating, the key is to do it gently to maintain the dish’s creamy texture. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a little chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent the pasta from sticking to the pan.

If using a microwave, cover the dish and reheat in short intervals, stirring in between to distribute the heat evenly.

For a creative twist, try turning the leftovers into a whole new meal! The Ruby Tuesday chicken and broccoli pasta can be transformed into a creamy pasta bake. Just place the leftovers in a baking dish, top with some extra cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden. Mmmm! 

Now that you know the ins and outs of our copycat Ruby Tuesday chicken and broccoli pasta recipe, we hope you’re inspired to bring this comforting dish to your own kitchen table. Share your cooking experiences in the comments and let us know how it turned out!

Frequently Asked Questions About Ruby Tuesday Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

1. How many calories are in a chicken and broccoli pasta bake?

The calorie content can vary, but a typical chicken and broccoli pasta bake contains approximately 500-700 calories per serving. This estimate assumes the inclusion of cheese, a creamy sauce, and pasta. Lighter versions with less cheese or a lighter sauce can reduce the calorie count.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	650 kcal
Total Fat	28 g
– Saturated Fat	16 g
– Trans Fat	0.5 g
Cholesterol	125 mg
Sodium	780 mg
Total Carbohydrate	68 g
– Dietary Fiber	5 g
– Total Sugars	6 g
Protein	38 g
Vitamin D	0.2 µg
Calcium	220 mg
Iron	3 mg
Potassium	640 mg

2. How many calories are in chicken and broccoli noodles?

For a standard serving of chicken and broccoli noodles, you’re looking at about 350-500 calories. This depends greatly on the type of noodles used and the amount of oil or sauce added. Choosing whole wheat noodles or a lighter sauce can help reduce calories.

3. Is baked chicken and broccoli a healthy meal?

Absolutely! Baked chicken and broccoli can be a very healthy meal choice. It’s packed with protein from the chicken and is rich in vitamins and fiber from the broccoli. The key is to be mindful of the cooking method – baking is a great way to preserve nutrients without adding extra fat.

4. Is baked chicken and broccoli good for you?

Yes, it is. Baked chicken provides lean protein, while broccoli is a powerhouse of nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and fiber. It’s a balanced meal that offers a good mix of protein, essential vitamins, and minerals.

5. Is chicken and broccoli high in calories?

Chicken and broccoli by themselves are not high in calories. Chicken is a lean protein source, and broccoli is low in calories but high in fiber and nutrients. However, the calorie content can increase depending on how they are prepared and what additional ingredients are added.

6. How many calories in Alfredo pasta with chicken and broccoli?

Alfredo pasta with chicken and broccoli typically ranges from 600 to 850 calories per serving. The creamy Alfredo sauce tends to be high in calories and fat, contributing to the higher calorie count. Opt for a lighter Alfredo sauce or smaller portions to cut down on calories.

Craving more delicious recipes? Try our delicious Longhorn Steakhouse Spicy Chicken Bites