Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a perfect balance of bright, tangy flavors and creamy goodness. The grilled chicken is juicy and tender, while the lemon-butter sauce adds a rich depth of flavor. The addition of goat cheese and fresh basil brings a unique twist, creating a gourmet experience that’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home. Whether you’re cooking for a dinner party or a casual meal, Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan brings restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen, making it a go-to recipe you’ll return to time and time again.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

For the lemon-butter sauce:

• 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay)

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)

• 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)

• 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped)

• 1/2 cup goat cheese (crumbled)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken:

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

2. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano.

3. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.

4. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and set it aside to rest.

2. Make the lemon-butter sauce:

1. In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

2. Pour in the white wine, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Stir and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 4-5 minutes until the sauce reduces by about half.

3. Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir until the butter is fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy.

4. Stir in the chopped basil and crumbled goat cheese. Let it cook for an additional minute, just until the goat cheese is softened and incorporated into the sauce.

3. Assemble the dish:

1. Place the grilled chicken breasts on a serving platter or individual plates.

2. Spoon the lemon-butter sauce with the goat cheese and basil over the chicken breasts.

3. Garnish with extra fresh basil and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Herb variations: Swap the basil for other fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a different flavor profile.

• Goat cheese alternatives: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can substitute it with feta cheese or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.

• Grilled vegetables: Serve the chicken with a side of grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a complete meal.

• Pasta side: Serve the Chicken Bryan over a bed of pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, to make it a more filling meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to bring it back to the right consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. The cooking time will be slightly longer, so be sure to check the internal temperature.

2. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the lemon-butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it on the stovetop and stir in the fresh basil and goat cheese just before serving.

3. Can I use a different kind of cheese?

If you don’t have goat cheese, you can substitute it with crumbled feta or even a mild cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

If you prefer a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers, or drizzle the chicken with some hot sauce before serving.

5. Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken breasts at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also sear the chicken in a skillet first and then finish it in the oven.

6. Can I make this dish in advance?

While the chicken and sauce are best when served fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, and grill the chicken just before serving.

7. How can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten the dish, you can use a lower-fat version of goat cheese, and swap the butter for olive oil. You can also reduce the amount of butter in the sauce and serve it with a lighter side dish like a salad.

8. Can I serve this with a side dish?

Yes! This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, rice, or a light pasta. The creamy sauce also goes great with crusty bread to soak up all the flavors.

9. Can I freeze the Chicken Madeira?

You can freeze the cooked chicken (without the sauce) for up to 3 months. However, the sauce may separate when frozen and reheated, so it’s best to prepare the sauce fresh when you’re ready to serve.

10. Can I use a different wine for the sauce?

If you prefer not to use Madeira wine, you can substitute it with white wine or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version. A dry wine works best for the sauce, as it balances the creaminess of the butter.

Conclusion

Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan is an elegant and flavorful dish that’s easy to make at home. The juicy grilled chicken paired with the rich, creamy lemon-butter sauce, fresh basil, and tangy goat cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to impress. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, vegetables, or rice, this dish is sure to become a new favorite

---

Print