Chicken Bryan from Carrabba's Italian Grill features grilled chicken breast topped with tangy lemon, fresh basil, and smoky goat cheese, served alongside a vibrant Pomodoro sauce, offering a flavorful blend of zesty, creamy, and savory tastes presented with a colorful and appetizing appearance.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Plate for serving
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces goat cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 lemon
- 4 Roma tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 small yellow onion
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar
When preparing Chicken Bryan, use fresh basil leaves and tangy lemon juice to capture the dish's signature zesty flavor, and choose high-quality goat cheese for the creamy, smoky topping. Be sure to season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and black pepper before grilling to enhance the savory taste. Use Roma tomatoes, garlic, yellow onion, and crushed tomatoes to make the vibrant Pomodoro sauce, balancing acidity with a small amount of sugar and unsalted butter. Measure ingredients accurately with measuring cups and spoons to maintain consistency in flavor. You can recreate the Chicken Bryan from Carrabba's Italian Grill copycat menu at home by following these ingredient tips for authentic, restaurant-quality results.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Brush chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons olive oil.
- Season chicken with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- While chicken grills, dice Roma tomatoes and small yellow onion.
- Mince garlic cloves.
- In a saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in diced Roma tomatoes, 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes.
- Pour in 1/4 cup dry white wine, stir, and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
- Add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter to sauce and stir to combine.
- Slice 8 ounces goat cheese into 4 rounds.
- Slice lemon and set aside.
- Slice 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves thinly (chiffonade).
- Once chicken is done, place on serving plate.
- Top each chicken breast with a goat cheese round.
- Spoon warm Pomodoro sauce over chicken.
- Sprinkle chicken with sliced basil.
- Squeeze fresh lemon over the top.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Chicken Bryan from Carrabba's Italian Grill copycat menu can be adapted by substituting fresh goat cheese with cream cheese blended with a pinch of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor. When fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil or a combination of fresh parsley and oregano can be used for a comparable herby freshness. If grilling options are limited, a grill pan or broiler can effectively cook the chicken breasts while retaining a smoky char. Using canned crushed tomatoes is convenient, but fresh Roma tomatoes can be blanched, peeled, and crushed for a brighter, more natural Pomodoro sauce. You can adjust the heat level by omitting or reducing the red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences.
Tips
Ensure your grill or grill pan is preheated properly to medium-high heat before placing the chicken to achieve the perfect sear and even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165degF, guaranteeing it is safe to eat and juicy. When slicing the fresh basil leaves, use a sharp chef's knife to create a delicate chiffonade, which enhances both flavor and presentation. Remember to serve your Chicken Bryan immediately after topping with goat cheese and lemon to enjoy the dish at its freshest and most vibrant.
Nutritions
Chicken Bryan from Carrabba's Italian Grill provides a balanced meal with lean protein from the grilled chicken breasts, which are low in fat and high in essential amino acids. The inclusion of goat cheese adds a creamy texture along with calcium and healthy fats, while fresh basil and lemon juice contribute antioxidants and vitamin C. The Pomodoro sauce incorporates Roma tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, onion, and garlic, which boost fiber and micronutrients like lycopene and vitamin A. You can enjoy a flavorful dish that supports muscle repair and immune health without excessive calories or processed ingredients.
Storage
Store leftover Chicken Bryan in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness. Keep the grilled chicken, Pomodoro sauce, and goat cheese slices separate if possible, to prevent sogginess and preserve texture. Reheat gently in a microwave or skillet, adding lemon and basil fresh after warming to retain their bright flavors for your next meal.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute goat cheese with feta or ricotta for a milder, creamy texture that complements the Pomodoro sauce. Instead of grilling, searing the chicken breasts in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat will create a nice crust while retaining juiciness. For a smoky flavor twist, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the seasoning mix before grilling. Using fresh cherry tomatoes in the sauce can give your dish a sweeter, more vibrant taste and a chunkier texture.
Allergies
Chicken Bryan contains goat cheese, which is a dairy product and may trigger allergic reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The dish also includes ingredients like garlic, onion, and tomatoes, which can cause sensitivities or allergies in some people. You should inform the restaurant of any specific food allergies to ensure your meal is prepared safely.
Why this recipe?
Chicken Bryan from Carrabba's Italian Grill is beloved for its juicy grilled chicken breast topped with tangy goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil, delivering a harmonious blend of creamy, savory, and vibrant flavors. The dish offers a balanced, gourmet experience that highlights Carrabba's commitment to fresh ingredients and Italian culinary traditions. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate the restaurant-quality taste at home, providing a satisfying meal that combines elegance with simplicity. Your taste buds will appreciate the bright, rich flavors and the healthy yet indulgent nature of this signature entree.