Copycat Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan — Welcome to a culinary delight where we recreate the magic of Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan at home!
Famous for its rich flavors and succulent texture, this beloved dish from Carrabba’s Italian Grill has captured the hearts of many.
We’ll bring those distinct Mediterranean flavors into your kitchen in our Copycat Chicken Bryan recipe.
Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts topped with a vibrant, tangy sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and the unmistakable richness of goat cheese. This dish is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a journey to the heart of Italian cuisine with a twist. Whether you’re a long-time Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan fan or new to this culinary gem, this recipe will surely impress. Let’s get ready to turn your dining room into an Italian bistro with this simple yet exquisite dish!
What Is Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan
Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan is a popular dish from Carrabba’s Italian Grill, a well-known American restaurant chain specializing in Italian-American cuisine. This dish stands out for its rich and flavorful profile, combining several key ingredients that create a delightful and savory experience. Here’s what makes Chicken Bryan so special:
- Chicken Breasts: The base of the dish consists of grilled chicken breasts, known for their tenderness and ability to absorb flavors well.
- Goat Cheese: One of the defining features of this dish is the generous topping of soft, creamy goat cheese, which adds a rich and tangy flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These provide a sweet and slightly tart taste, adding a layer of complexity and a touch of Mediterranean flair to the dish.
- Basil Lemon Butter Sauce: The chicken is typically served with a basil lemon butter sauce, a combination of butter, garlic, onion, white wine, lemon juice, and fresh basil. This sauce adds a luxurious, bright, and aromatic element that complements the other components beautifully.
- Additional Seasonings: The dish is often enhanced with additional seasonings and garnishes, like garlic, onions, and spices, that contribute to its overall depth of flavor.
Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan is not just famous for its delicious taste but also for the harmonious way in which its ingredients come together. It’s a flavorful, comforting dish that’s become a favorite for many who enjoy Italian-American cuisine.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Bryan Copycat Recipe!
- Flavorful Combination: The dish masterfully combines the tenderness of grilled chicken breasts with goat cheese’s rich, tangy flavor, creating a delightful contrast in textures and tastes.
- Savory Basil Lemon Butter Sauce: The basil lemon butter sauce, infused with garlic and white wine, provides a luxurious and aromatic flavor that elevates the chicken to a gourmet level.
- Mediterranean Influences: Including sun-dried tomatoes adds a sweet, tart Mediterranean touch that complements the creamy goat cheese and herby sauce.
- Versatile Dining Experience: Chicken Bryan is perfect for various dining occasions, from a cozy family dinner to a special date night, offering a satisfying and elegant meal.
- Culinary Delight: This dish is a treat for anyone who enjoys Italian-American cuisine, combining familiar ingredients uniquely and deliciously.
- Comforting Yet Sophisticated: While comforting and familiar, Chicken Bryan also carries a certain sophistication, making it a dish sure to impress.
Ingredients Needed For Copycat Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan
Each ingredient in the Copycat Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan plays a pivotal role in recreating this beloved dish’s iconic taste and texture.
Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.
- Chicken Breasts: Serving as the main protein, chicken breasts are prized for their lean texture and mild flavor, which readily absorbs the rich seasonings of the dish.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These offer a chewy texture and a concentrated burst of sweetness and tartness, enhancing the dish with a Mediterranean flair.
- Goat Cheese: Creamy and tangy goat cheese adds a luxurious richness and a unique, slightly tart flavor that beautifully complements the chicken.
- Butter: Used as the base for the sauce, butter imparts a smooth, velvety texture and a rich flavor, binding all the sauce components together.
- White Wine: Typically used in cooking the sauce, white wine offers a subtle fruitiness and acidity, enhancing the sauce’s flavor and aroma.
- Lemon Juice: It provides a zesty, bright acidity that balances the richness of the cheese and butter, elevating the overall taste profile.
- Garlic: Garlic adds a pungent, earthy depth essential for the savory backbone of the sauce.
- Fresh Basil: Basil brings a fragrant, herbal aroma and a hint of sweetness, contributing to the freshness and complexity of the sauce.
- Salt and Pepper: These seasonings are fundamental for enhancing and balancing the flavors of the chicken and sauce.
How To Make Copycat Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan
Making a Copycat Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan at home is a delightful way to bring the flavors of the Italian grill to your kitchen. Here’s how to do it:
Chicken Preparation: Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
Cooking in the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 380 degrees F. Lightly brush the chicken with olive oil for a golden finish, and arrange them in the air fryer basket. Cook for 18-20 minutes, turning them once midway, until they’re thoroughly cooked and have developed a lovely golden-brown color.
Making the Lemon Butter Sauce: Begin by gently sautéing garlic in a medium saucepan until it becomes aromatic. Introduce sun-dried tomatoes and pour in the white wine, allowing the mixture to simmer and reduce by half. Follow this by adding lemon juice. Gradually whisk in butter cubes until the sauce achieves a rich, creamy consistency.
Assembling the Dish: Arrange each cooked chicken breast on a plate. Lavishly spoon over the homemade lemon butter sauce. Crumble fresh goat cheese atop for a tangy twist, and add a garnish of freshly chopped basil for an herbal touch. Serve this delightful dish promptly to savor its full flavor.
Recipe Variations For Copycat Chicken Bryan
Exploring variations of the Copycat Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan can add exciting twists to this beloved dish. Here are some creative ideas to try:
- Creamy Alfredo Twist: Replace the lemon butter sauce with a rich Alfredo sauce for a creamier version. Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Infuse the dish with heat by adding crushed red pepper flakes to the lemon butter sauce, or top the chicken with a spicy arrabbiata sauce.
- Herb-Infused Chicken: Marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a selection of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano before cooking.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic reduction over the finished dish for a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory goat cheese and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Mozzarella and Tomato Caprese: Top the chicken with fresh mozzarella and tomato slices, then broil until the cheese melts. Garnish with basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Mediterranean Style: Add olives, capers, and feta cheese to the sun-dried tomato topping for a Mediterranean flair.
- Pesto Sauce Variation: Use pesto sauce instead of lemon butter sauce for a fresh, herby taste. This pairs exceptionally well with the goat cheese.
- Artichoke Addition: Incorporate chopped hearts into the sauce or as a topping for an extra layer of flavor.
- Mushroom Delight: Sauté mushrooms in garlic and white wine, and add them to the sauce for a rich, earthy flavor.
- Prosciutto Wrapped: For an extra savory touch, wrap the chicken breasts in prosciutto before cooking.
Each variation adds a unique twist to the classic Chicken Bryan, allowing you to enjoy a different flavor experience every time.
Pro Tips Chicken Bryan Carrabba’s Recipe
Crafting a successful Copycat Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan at home can be a delightful culinary experience. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out as delicious as the restaurant version:
- Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh basil, ripe sun-dried tomatoes, and good-quality goat cheese can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Make sure your chicken breasts are not too thick; if they are, pound them to even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy.
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain the juices, making the chicken moist and tender.
- Balanced Lemon Butter Sauce: The lemon butter sauce is key. Balance the tartness of the lemon with the richness of the butter. Adjust according to your taste, and don’t let the garlic brown too much, as it can become bitter.
- Simmering the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer until it reduces to the right consistency. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Adding the Goat Cheese: Crumble the goat cheese and add it just before serving to melt slightly but retain its texture.
- Fresh Herbs: Use fresh basil for garnishing. It adds a burst of freshness and enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If you’re using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drain them well before chopping. This prevents the dish from becoming too oily.
- Wine Selection: Use good quality white wine for the sauce you enjoy drinking. The flavor of the wine is key to a great sauce.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the dish with a side that complements its rich flavors, such as a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple pasta.
Following these tips, you can recreate the beloved taste of Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan in your kitchen, making a dish that will impress your family and guests.
Copycat Carrabba’s Chicken Recipe Faq’s
What is Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan? Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan is a popular dish from Carrabba’s Italian Grill, featuring grilled chicken breasts topped with goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and a rich lemon butter sauce.
Can I make Chicken Bryan if I don’t have a grill? Absolutely. You can cook the chicken in a skillet, air fryer, or a grill pan over the stove. The key is to cook the chicken until it’s golden and fully cooked.
What kind of wine is best for the lemon butter sauce? A dry white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio is ideal for the sauce, adding depth without overwhelming sweetness.
Can I substitute the goat cheese? Yes, if goat cheese isn’t your liking, you can substitute it with feta cheese, which has a tangy flavor, or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Are sun-dried tomatoes in oil or dry-packed better for the recipe? Sun-dried tomatoes in oil are commonly used for their soft texture and rich flavor but drain them well. Dry-packed can also be used after rehydrating them in warm water.
Can the Chicken Bryan be made ahead of time? The chicken can be grilled ahead of time and then reheated gently. However, the sauce is best made fresh right before serving.
How can I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or the microwave, being careful not to overcook the chicken.
What sides pair well with Chicken Bryan? Classic Italian sides like garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad pair well with the rich flavors of Chicken Bryan.
Is Chicken Bryan a healthy dish? Chicken Bryan can be considered a balanced meal, especially with vegetables. The chicken provides protein, but be mindful of the butter and cheese content if you’re watching your fat intake.
Can I use bottled lemon juice for the sauce? Fresh lemon juice is preferred for its bright flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
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Copycat Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan
Description
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts,
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Chicken Preparation: Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
- Cooking in the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F. Lightly brush the chicken with olive oil for a golden finish, and arrange them in the air fryer basket. Cook for 18-20 minutes, turning them once midway, until they’re thoroughly cooked and have developed a lovely golden-brown color.
- Making the Lemon Butter Sauce: Begin by gently sautéing garlic in a medium saucepan until it becomes aromatic. Introduce sun-dried tomatoes and pour in the white wine, allowing the mixture to simmer and reduce by half. Follow this by adding lemon juice. Gradually whisk in cubes of butter, continuing until the sauce achieves a rich, creamy consistency.
- Assembling the Dish: Arrange each cooked chicken breast on a plate. Lavishly spoon over the homemade lemon butter sauce. Crumble fresh goat cheese atop for a tangy twist, and add a garnish of freshly chopped basil for an herbal touch. Serve this delightful dish promptly to savor its full flavor.
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Nutrition
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Thomas Channel
amazing.