The Chicken Bryan Recipe is a beloved dish that brings together grilled chicken, a rich basil lemon butter sauce, and creamy goat cheese—a delightful meal that combines both flavor and comfort. Originating from Carrabba’s Italian Grill, this Chicken Bryan Recipe has become a favorite in many households, offering an easy yet impressive way to elevate your weeknight dinner.
What makes Chicken Bryan so special is its balance of tangy lemon, earthy basil, and the subtle creaminess of goat cheese, topped off with the depth of sun-dried tomatoes. The grilled chicken serves as a tender base for these bold flavors, creating a truly satisfying dish that can be served with various sides, from mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables.
Whether you are cooking for a special occasion or a casual family meal, Chicken Bryan is sure to impress. For those who love chicken dishes with a twist, this recipe offers a perfect blend of classic Italian flavors. If you’re looking for another delicious chicken recipe, check out the Alice Springs Chicken recipe, which is another great option for a savory chicken dinner.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the ingredients, steps, and tips to make this dish at home. Get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen!
Ingredients for Chicken Bryan
To recreate the delicious Chicken Bryan Recipe at home, you will need a few key ingredients that come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for this irresistible Chicken Bryan Recipe:
- Chicken Breasts – 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled to perfection. You can also use chicken thighs for a more tender option.
- Goat Cheese – 4 ounces, crumbled. This creamy cheese adds a rich, tangy flavor that is essential to the dish.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – ½ cup, chopped. These bring a concentrated, sweet-tart flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Fresh Basil – ¼ cup, chopped. Fresh basil is key for that fragrant, herbal note.
- Lemon Juice – 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed. The tanginess of lemon brightens the sauce and enhances the overall flavor.
- Butter – 2 tablespoons, used to create the luscious basil lemon butter sauce.
- White Wine – ¼ cup, for deglazing the pan and creating a flavorful sauce base.
- Garlic – 1 tablespoon, minced. Garlic adds depth and an aromatic quality to the dish.
- Olive Oil – for marinating and grilling the chicken.
If you’re looking for another creamy chicken recipe to try, check out this Chicken Cream Cheese recipe. The ingredients may vary, but the creaminess and flavor will satisfy your taste buds just the same.
With these ingredients on hand, you’ll be able to make a dish that rivals the famous Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan.
Preparing the Chicken
To create the perfect Chicken Bryan Recipe, it all starts with preparing the chicken to ensure it’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Follow these steps to get your chicken ready for the basil lemon butter sauce and other delicious toppings that make this Chicken Bryan Recipe so irresistible:
Marinate the Chicken
Begin by marinating your chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. This marinade not only helps tenderize the chicken but also infuses it with the bold, zesty flavors that make this dish so special. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best results, leave it for up to 2 hours in the fridge.
Season the Chicken
After marinating, season your chicken breasts with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to enhance the flavors. Be generous, as the seasoning will bring out the natural taste of the chicken while complementing the sauce.
Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and brush it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures that your chicken stays moist and flavorful.
Rest the Chicken
Once grilled, let the chicken breasts rest for a few minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that the chicken remains juicy and tender when sliced.
For those who enjoy experimenting with chicken recipes, you might also want to check out some creative ideas in this Chicken Breakfast Recipes link. While the dishes differ, the versatility of chicken as a base for many flavor-packed meals is a common thread.
With your chicken properly prepared, you’re now ready to move on to the next step: making that irresistible basil lemon butter sauce to complete the dish.
Making the Basil Lemon Butter Sauce
The basil lemon butter sauce is what truly elevates the Chicken Bryan, turning it from a simple grilled chicken dish into a flavorful masterpiece. This creamy, tangy sauce perfectly complements the juicy chicken, creating a balance of fresh herbs, citrus, and richness. Here’s how to make it:
Sauté the Garlic and Onion
Start by melting butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of finely chopped onion. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes, or until they become fragrant and softened. The garlic and onion form the base of the sauce, providing aromatic depth.
Deglaze with White Wine
After sautéing, pour in ¼ cup of white wine to deglaze the pan. The wine will lift any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan, adding complexity to the sauce. Allow the wine to simmer for 1-2 minutes, reducing slightly.
Add Lemon Juice
Now, it’s time to add 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice. The acidity of the lemon balances the richness of the butter, giving the sauce a refreshing, zesty kick that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Incorporate the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil
Stir in ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and ¼ cup of chopped fresh basil. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a slightly sweet, umami flavor, while the fresh basil adds a bright herbal note. Stir everything together until the tomatoes are softened and the basil is fragrant.
Finish with Butter
To give the sauce its creamy consistency, stir in an additional 2 tablespoons of butter. This will create a smooth, velvety sauce that perfectly coats the chicken.
Season to Taste
Taste the sauce and adjust with salt and freshly ground pepper as needed. For an extra touch of richness, you can also add a spoonful of heavy cream or a splash of chicken broth.
Once the sauce is prepared, you’re ready to pour it over your grilled chicken breasts. The combination of goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil lemon butter sauce will make every bite unforgettable.
If you’re looking for more creative ways to elevate your meals, check out this Wild Turkey Recipes: A Guide to Flavorful Creations. While it’s a different protein, the same principles of combining bold flavors and rich sauces apply.
With this sauce ready, the next step is simply assembling your dish and enjoying the burst of flavor in each bite.
Assembling the Dish
Once the grilled chicken and basil lemon butter sauce are ready, it’s time to assemble the dish and bring all the flavors together. Here’s how to do it:
Plate the Grilled Chicken
Start by placing each grilled chicken breast onto a serving plate. Make sure the chicken is slightly angled or fanned out to showcase the beautiful grill marks.
Top with Goat Cheese
Gently crumble about 1 ounce of goat cheese on top of each piece of chicken. The warmth of the chicken will help soften the cheese, allowing it to melt slightly into the dish, adding a creamy, tangy flavor.
Pour the Basil Lemon Butter Sauce
Spoon a generous amount of the basil lemon butter sauce over the grilled chicken. Be sure to drizzle the sauce over the chicken and let it pool around the plate for extra flavor in every bite.
Garnish with Fresh Basil
For an added burst of freshness, garnish the dish with extra chopped basil. This not only enhances the presentation but also elevates the herbal flavors.
Serve with Complementary Sides
Chicken Bryan pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or pasta. Choose sides that will complement the richness of the dish and balance out the lemony zing of the sauce.
For another delicious chicken dish, you might want to explore this Easy Chicken Salad Chick Recipe. Though different in flavor and presentation, both recipes bring out the best in chicken, making them perfect for various occasions.
With your dish beautifully assembled, it’s now ready to be served and enjoyed by your guests or loved ones.
Chicken Bryan Variations
While the classic Chicken Bryan recipe is already a flavorful masterpiece, there are plenty of variations you can try to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas to mix things up:
Add Mushrooms
For an earthy twist, add sautéed mushrooms to the basil lemon butter sauce. Mushrooms complement the creamy sauce and add an extra layer of flavor.
Spicy Chicken Bryan
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or marinating the chicken with cayenne pepper. This variation creates a spicy contrast to the tangy lemon and creamy goat cheese.
Swap Chicken for Other Proteins
While chicken is the classic choice, you can also use thin-sliced chicken breast for quicker cooking or substitute it with fish, such as salmon, for a unique twist on the dish. If you’re interested in experimenting, try this Thin Sliced Chicken Breast Recipe for even more options.
Vegetarian Chicken Bryan
For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or a tofu steak. These ingredients absorb the basil lemon butter sauce beautifully and provide a satisfying meat-free alternative.
These variations can help you make Chicken Bryan your own, whether you’re looking for a new twist or adapting the dish to dietary needs.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Bryan Every Time
To ensure your Chicken Bryan turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips that will elevate the dish and ensure a juicy, flavorful result:
Use a Meat Thermometer
To avoid overcooking your chicken, always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy chicken without any dryness.
Marinate for Maximum Flavor
Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, helps infuse the meat with flavor. Don’t skip this step! The lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil will penetrate the chicken, making it tender and flavorful.
Grill with Care
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and avoid pressing down on the chicken with the spatula. This helps retain moisture, keeping your chicken tender. Also, brush the grill grates with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Fresh Ingredients Matter
Always use fresh basil and freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. These ingredients bring brightness and a natural, vibrant taste to your basil lemon butter sauce.
Make the Sauce Ahead
If you’re short on time, you can prepare the basil lemon butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before serving to preserve its creamy texture.
Pair with the Right Sides
For a perfect meal, serve Chicken Bryan with complementary sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or pasta. For another delicious chicken dish, try this Chicken and Dressing Recipe for an easy side that pairs well with this flavorful main dish.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a perfect Chicken Bryan every time, impressing your family and friends with each bite!
FAQs about Chicken Bryan
Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Bryan, along with helpful answers to ensure your dish is a success every time:
- Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can substitute boneless chicken thighs for chicken breasts. While chicken thighs are a bit fattier, they remain juicy and flavorful. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs may require a few extra minutes to cook through. If you’re a fan of juicy chicken, you might also enjoy these Grilled Chicken Thigh Recipes. - Can I make the basil lemon butter sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the basil lemon butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce over low heat to maintain its creamy texture. - What can I substitute for goat cheese?
If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can substitute it with feta cheese, cream cheese, or even mozzarella. These options will still provide a creamy texture, though they offer slightly different flavor profiles. - Can I make this dish without alcohol?
Yes, if you prefer not to use white wine, you can deglaze the pan with chicken broth or apple cider vinegar for a non-alcoholic alternative. - How can I make Chicken Bryan spicier?
If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the basil lemon butter sauce or marinate the chicken with a pinch of cayenne pepper. This will create a spicy contrast to the richness of the sauce.
By following these tips and answers, you can easily customize Chicken Bryan to suit your taste and dietary preferences while ensuring it always turns out delicious!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chicken Bryan is a delightful and flavorful dish that brings together the rich creaminess of goat cheese, the zest of basil lemon butter sauce, and the savory goodness of grilled chicken. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. By following the simple steps, you can easily recreate a restaurant-quality meal at home.
- Customize to your liking: From spicy variations to swapping ingredients, there are many ways to make this dish your own.
- Pair with delicious sides: Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad to complement the richness of the chicken and sauce.
- Impressive yet simple: The combination of fresh ingredients and easy-to-follow steps makes Chicken Bryan a standout dish that’s both impressive and simple to prepare.
For another flavorful chicken recipe, you might want to try this Chicken and Peppers Recipe, which offers a delicious twist on chicken dishes with vibrant peppers and spices.
With its bright, bold flavors and versatility, Chicken Bryan is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy every bite!
External Links and Recommended Anchor Text:
Original Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan (Not Copycat!) – Food.com
Anchor Text: « For an authentic version of Chicken Bryan, check out this original recipe from Carrabba’s on Food.com. »
Copycat Chicken Bryan – Allrecipes
Anchor Text: « Looking for a copycat version of Carrabba’s famous dish? Allrecipes has a great take on it. »
Copycat Carrabbas Chicken Bryan Recipe – CopyKat Recipes
Anchor Text: « Learn how to make a copycat version of Chicken Bryan with this recipe from CopyKat. »