Chicken Bella from Ruby Tuesday features tender grilled chicken breasts topped with sauteed mushrooms, melted mozzarella cheese, and a savory garlic basil sauce, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and fresh steamed broccoli, creating a delicious blend of hearty and flavorful components.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Sauté pan
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Potato masher
- Steamer basket
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sliced bella mushrooms
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 2 cups broccoli florets
When preparing Chicken Bella from Ruby Tuesday, choose fresh boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender, juicy results. Use high-quality bella mushrooms and freshly shredded mozzarella cheese to achieve authentic flavors and textures. Fresh basil and garlic are essential for the savory garlic basil sauce that enhances the dish's richness. Russet potatoes should be peeled and boiled to a soft consistency for creamy mashed potatoes, and fresh broccoli florets must be steamed until bright green and tender-crisp for the perfect side. Your homemade Chicken Bella copycat menu will capture Ruby Tuesday's signature blend of grilled chicken, sauteed mushrooms, melted cheese, and creamy sides.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- Grill chicken breasts until cooked through; set aside.
- Heat sauté pan and add olive oil.
- Sauté sliced bella mushrooms until tender.
- Add minced garlic and cook briefly.
- Stir in chicken broth and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add chopped fresh basil.
- Stir in half of the mozzarella cheese until melted.
- Spoon the sautéed mushroom mixture over the grilled chicken breasts.
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Let cheeses melt (cover pan if needed).
- In a saucepan, peel, cube, and boil russet potatoes until fork-tender.
- Drain potatoes and mash with potato masher.
- Add butter, whole milk, sour cream, salt, and black pepper to potatoes; mash until creamy.
- Steam broccoli florets until bright green and tender-crisp using a steamer basket.
- Plate grilled chicken with mushroom-topped mozzarella, creamy mashed potatoes, and steamed broccoli.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
When preparing a Chicken Bella copycat at home, you can easily substitute cremini or button mushrooms if bella mushrooms are unavailable. If you don't have fresh basil, dried basil in smaller amounts can still provide a pleasant flavor. Use any mild white cheese like provolone or Monterey Jack if mozzarella is not on hand, which will melt nicely over the chicken. For a dairy-free option, swap heavy cream with coconut milk, and replace sour cream with a plant-based yogurt alternative. Your mashed potatoes can be enriched with olive oil or chicken broth instead of butter and milk for a lighter texture without sacrificing taste.
Tips
Make sure to pat the chicken breasts dry before seasoning to achieve a better sear on the grill or grill pan. When melting mozzarella cheese over the mushrooms, cover the pan to help the cheese melt evenly without burning. To avoid watery mashed potatoes, drain them well after boiling and mash while still hot, adding butter and cream gradually to reach your preferred texture. Steam the broccoli just until tender-crisp to retain its vibrant color and nutrients for a fresh, crisp bite.
Nutritions
Chicken Bella provides a balanced meal rich in lean protein from grilled chicken breasts and essential vitamins and minerals from sauteed bella mushrooms and fresh steamed broccoli. The creamy mashed potatoes contribute carbohydrates for energy, while the mozzarella cheese adds calcium and healthy fats. Garlic and fresh basil enhance flavor and offer antioxidants, making this dish both nutritious and satisfying. Your meal supports muscle health, immune function, and overall wellness with its wholesome ingredients and well-rounded nutrient profile.
Storage
Store leftover Chicken Bella in an airtight container to preserve the grilled chicken, sauteed mushrooms, melted mozzarella, mashed potatoes, and steamed broccoli. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within 3-4 days to maintain freshness and food safety. For best reheating results, gently warm portions in a microwave or oven to retain moisture and flavor for your next meal.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute grilled chicken breasts with pan-seared turkey cutlets for a leaner protein option. Replace bella mushrooms with a mix of shiitake and cremini mushrooms to enhance earthier flavors. Instead of mozzarella, try using provolone or fontina cheese for a different melting texture and taste. To add more zest to your mashed potatoes, incorporate roasted garlic or grated Parmesan cheese in the mashing process.
Allergies
Chicken Bella contains common allergens such as dairy from mozzarella cheese, heavy cream, milk, and sour cream, which may cause reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The dish also includes garlic and basil, which can trigger sensitivities in some people. You should check all ingredients carefully if you have food allergies to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
Chicken Bella from Ruby Tuesday restaurant stands out for its tender grilled chicken breast topped with sauteed mushrooms and melted mozzarella, creating a rich, savory flavor profile. The dish's creamy Alfredo sauce and hearty penne pasta complement the chicken perfectly, offering a balanced and satisfying meal. Your attempt at making a copycat version allows you to customize fresh ingredients while enjoying the same comforting taste at a fraction of the cost. Fans appreciate Chicken Bella for its blend of textures and flavors that appeal to those seeking an indulgent yet familiar dining experience.