Flavors Worth Savoring
Why Chicken Bryan Is a Must-Try Dish
Chicken Bryan is a signature Italian-American dish that combines the tender juiciness of grilled chicken with the luxurious flavors of goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and a tangy lemon-basil butter sauce. This dish, popularized by Carrabba’s Italian Grill, is surprisingly simple to make at home and perfect for a special dinner or a casual gourmet experience.
Recipe Overview
| Serving Size | 4 servings |
|---|---|
| Dish Type | Main course |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate |
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Calories | Approx. 450 kcal per serving |
Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Bryan
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Lemon-Basil Butter Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick, softened)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings:
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 4 oz goat cheese (sliced into 4 rounds)
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Make the Lemon-Basil Butter Sauce
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Remove from heat and mix in the chopped basil, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Dish
- Place a slice of goat cheese on top of each chicken breast while it’s still warm, allowing the cheese to soften.
- Sprinkle the chopped sun-dried tomatoes evenly over the chicken.
- Drizzle the lemon-basil butter sauce generously over the chicken and toppings.
4. Serve and Enjoy
- Plate the Chicken Bryan and garnish with extra basil leaves if desired. Pair it with a side of garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh basil, creamy goat cheese, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes elevate the dish.
- Adjust the Lemon Flavor: For a milder sauce, reduce the lemon juice slightly or balance it with a touch of honey.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken stays tender and juicy.
Why This Recipe Works
The creamy goat cheese pairs beautifully with the zesty lemon-basil butter sauce, creating a balance of rich and tangy flavors. Sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet-savory depth, while the grilled chicken serves as the perfect canvas for these gourmet toppings. The combination is indulgent yet approachable, making it ideal for any occasion.
Health Benefits
Chicken Bryan is a protein-rich dish that can be lightened by using less butter or opting for low-fat goat cheese. Basil provides antioxidants, while sun-dried tomatoes add vitamins and minerals to the meal.
Key Takeaways
Versatile: Pair with your favorite sides for a customizable meal.
Elegant Yet Simple: This dish looks and tastes gourmet but is easy enough to prepare at home.
Flavor-Packed: Lemon, basil, goat cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes create a harmonious flavor profile.
FAQ
What is Chicken Bryan?
Chicken Bryan is a dish from Carrabba’s Italian Grill. It has grilled chicken, goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy lemon butter sauce.
Where did the name “Chicken Bryan” come from?
It’s named after Bryan, Texas. The Carrabba family settled there after moving from Italy. The dish mixes Italian flavors with a modern twist, celebrating their roots and new home.
What are the key ingredients in Chicken Bryan?
The main ingredients are chicken breasts, goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil. It also includes lemon juice, white wine, butter, and heavy cream. These ingredients create a mix of tangy, sweet, and rich flavors.
What type of equipment is needed to make Chicken Bryan?
You’ll need a large skillet or grill pan, a saucepan, a cutting board, and a sharp knife. Tools like a meat mallet, garlic press, citrus juicer, and instant-read thermometer can also be useful.
How do you prepare the Chicken Bryan?
First, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. Then, grill or sauté the chicken until it’s cooked. Next, make the lemon butter sauce by sautéing onions and garlic, adding white wine and lemon juice, and then slowly adding heavy cream and butter.
How do you make the signature lemon butter sauce?
To make the sauce, sauté onions and garlic, then add white wine and lemon juice. Slowly whisk in heavy cream and butter to create a rich sauce. Add sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil at the end.
How do you store and reheat leftover Chicken Bryan?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. Keep the chicken and sauce separate. To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet or oven, and reheat the sauce on the stove or in the microwave.
Can you make any variations to the Chicken Bryan recipe?
Yes, you can try different variations. Use chicken thighs instead of breasts, or substitute cream cheese for goat cheese. You can also use chicken broth instead of white wine, or add mushrooms or artichokes for extra flavor.
