Before diving into the mouthwatering details of Carrabba’s Bryan Chicken, let’s explore what you can pair this delectable dish with. It’s always exciting to think about the complete dining experience, isn’t it?
For sides, consider a fresh garden salad. A mix of greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can elevate the meal’s overall freshness. Another excellent choice is a side of garlic mashed potatoes. The creaminess of the potatoes harmonizes beautifully with the rich flavors of the chicken.
Steamed asparagus or roasted vegetables add a colorful and nutritious element to your plate. If you’re feeling adventurous, a side of risotto can provide a luxurious touch. Each of these options complements the Bryan Chicken while adding a unique flair to your meal. Now, let’s dig into the star of the show!
Most nights, I crave something comforting, something that invites me to gather around the dinner table with family and friends. And then there’s Carrabba’s Bryan Chicken. When I first tasted this dish at Carrabba’s Italian Grill, it struck a chord.
The combination of tender chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy goat cheese created a flavor explosion that sent my taste buds on a delightful journey. After trying it a few times, I decided: I need to replicate this dish at home. Here’s how you can, too.
What is Carrabba’s Bryan Chicken?
Carrabba’s Bryan Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience. It features grilled chicken breasts stuffed with goat cheese, topped with a vibrant sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a splash of white wine.
The balance of tangy and savory flavors, coupled with the creamy melt of goat cheese, creates a dish that’s both satisfying and impressive.
What Makes This Recipe Different from Other Carrabba’s Bryan Chicken?
You might wonder, “What sets this apart from other chicken dishes?” The secret lies in the layers of flavor and careful preparation. While many chicken recipes focus solely on seasoning, Bryan Chicken presents a delightful variation through its filling and sauce. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes and a drizzle of white wine gives the dish a unique flair that isn’t found in your typical chicken breast recipe.
Moreover, this recipe can be adapted with various ingredients, allowing for personalization. Whether you’re a goat cheese fanatic or you’re still warming up to it, there’s flexibility here. It’s truly a dish that speaks to a variety of palates.
How Does It Taste?
Describing the taste of Carrabba’s Bryan Chicken is like trying to eloquently describe a sunset. You can’t quite capture the beauty of it, but I’ll give it a shot. The first bite reveals the juicy, tender grilled chicken.
Then, the creamy goat cheese brings a depth that’s beautifully complemented by the sun-dried tomatoes’ tangy sweetness. The light acidity from the white wine sauce balances the richness, making each bite a true delight.
It’s comforting and indulgent without feeling heavy. In essence, it’s a comforting hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Let’s gather our culinary tools and ingredients. Below is what you’ll need to create this masterpiece:
For the Chicken:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved)
- Extra virgin olive oil for brushing
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon finely minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon finely minced yellow onion
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup dry white wine
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ⅔ cup cold butter, cut into slices
- 1 ½ cups chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon white pepper
For the Goat Cheese Filling:
- 8 ounces Caprino goat cheese (or your preferred goat cheese variety), softened at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional, for an earthy note)
Step by Step Instructions
Ready to get started? Let’s cook!
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Begin with your chicken. Halve the boneless, skinless breasts if they aren’t already. Make sure they’re even in thickness for uniform cooking. Brush both sides with extra virgin olive oil and season with pepper and kosher salt.
Step 2: Making the Goat Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese with honey and thyme (if using). Mix until it’s smooth and spreadable. This delightful mixture will be stuffed inside the chicken.
Step 3: Stuffing the Chicken
Take a spoonful of the goat cheese filling and place it in the center of each chicken breast. Fold the chicken over, encasing the filling securely. Use toothpicks to hold them closed, ensuring the filling doesn’t escape while cooking.
Step 4: Grilling the Chicken
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Preparing the Sauce
While the chicken cooks, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and onion, sautéing until they’re fragrant. Pour in the dry white wine and lemon juice, allowing it to reduce slightly (about 5 minutes). Stir in the cold butter, letting it melt smoothly into the sauce.
Step 6: Completing the Sauce
Once the butter has been incorporated, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. Season with sea salt and white pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 7: Plating the Dish
Once the chicken is done, remove the toothpicks and plate the chicken. Generously ladle the sun-dried tomato sauce over the top. A sprinkle of fresh basil or a lemon wedge can make for a charming presentation.
Tips & Tricks on Making Carrabba’s Bryan Chicken
- Use Room Temperature Cheese: Allow the goat cheese to soften at room temperature. This makes it easier to spread and stuff into the chicken.
- Don’t Rush Cooking: Give the chicken time on each side. Rushing can lead to dry chicken. Remember, patience equals flavor.
- Experiment with Wine: Use your favorite dry white wine for cooking. The flavors will come through in the sauce, enhancing the dish.
- Baste While Cooking: If you’re grilling, try basting the chicken with a little extra olive oil to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Let It Rest: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, keeping the chicken juicy.
How Do I Store This Dish?
Let’s say you’ve done a fantastic job and now have leftovers (or you’re preparing it ahead of time). To store your Bryan Chicken, follow these simple steps:
- Cool Down: Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature.
- Airtight Container: Place the chicken in an airtight container. This will keep it fresh for future meals.
- Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat Gently: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in the oven (or microwave) until warmed through.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Carrabba’s Bryan Chicken?
So, you’re perhaps not a fan of goat cheese or want to switch things up? Here are alternatives to consider:
- Feta Cheese: Feta provides a tangy flavor similar to goat cheese. Crumble it and mix it with the same herbs for a different spin.
- Ricotta Cheese: For a creamier texture, ricotta can work well. Just blend it with some fresh herbs to add flavor.
- Cream Cheese: If you love the richness, softened cream cheese can be a great substitute. Add herbs and lemon to enhance the flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully. Use fresh or shredded mozzarella, adding a touch of basil for that Italian twist.
- Spinach and Cheese Filling: Mix spinach with cottage cheese or a cheese of your choice. This adds nutrients while keeping it delicious.
Carrabba’s Bryan Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- grill or skillet
Ingredients
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts (halved)
- Extra virgin olive oil for brushing
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon finely minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon finely minced yellow onion
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup dry white wine
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ⅔ cup cold butter cut into slices
- 1 ½ cups chopped sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon white pepper
- 8 ounces Caprino goat cheese or your preferred goat cheese variety, softened at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon honey optional, for added sweetness
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme optional, for an earthy note
Instructions
- Begin with your chicken. Halve the boneless, skinless breasts if they aren’t already. Make sure they’re even in thickness for uniform cooking. Brush both sides with extra virgin olive oil and season with pepper and kosher salt.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese with honey and thyme (if using). Mix until it’s smooth and spreadable. This delightful mixture will be stuffed inside the chicken.
- Take a spoonful of the goat cheese filling and place it in the center of each chicken breast. Fold the chicken over, encasing the filling securely. Use toothpicks to hold them closed, ensuring the filling doesn’t escape while cooking.
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken cooks, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and onion, sautéing until they’re fragrant. Pour in the dry white wine and lemon juice, allowing it to reduce slightly (about 5 minutes). Stir in the cold butter, letting it melt smoothly into the sauce.
- Once the butter has been incorporated, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. Season with sea salt and white pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
- Once the chicken is done, remove the toothpicks and plate the chicken. Generously ladle the sun-dried tomato sauce over the top. A sprinkle of fresh basil or a lemon wedge can make for a charming presentation.
Notes
- Use Room Temperature Cheese: Allow the goat cheese to soften at room temperature. This makes it easier to spread and stuff into the chicken.
- Don’t Rush Cooking: Give the chicken time on each side. Rushing can lead to dry chicken. Remember, patience equals flavor.
- Experiment with Wine: Use your favorite dry white wine for cooking. The flavors will come through in the sauce, enhancing the dish.
- Baste While Cooking: If you’re grilling, try basting the chicken with a little extra olive oil to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Let It Rest: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, keeping the chicken juicy.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Carrabba’s Bryan Chicken isn’t just a dish; it embodies a story of flavor, comfort, and community. As I made it in my own kitchen, I felt like I was sharing a piece of my dining experience with family and friends. With its stunning combination of tastes and textures, this recipe stands out as a fantastic option for any dinner gathering or simply a weeknight meal.
So, gather those ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a restaurant-quality dish right at home. Cooking may seem challenging at times, but armed with the right knowledge and a dash of enthusiasm, it transforms into a joy. Bon appétit!
