Copycat Chicken Bryan Recipe

Copycat Chicken Bryan Recipe: A Mouthwatering Masterpiece of Creamy, Tangy Perfection 🍗🧀🌿

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a restaurant-quality dish that’s bursting with flavor, this Copycat Chicken Bryan Recipe is your answer! Inspired by the famous Carrabba’s Italian Grill dish, this recipe features tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy goat cheese sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil. It’s a symphony of flavors that will impress your family and guests alike. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home!

For those who love Italian-inspired dishes, you might also enjoy our Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo recipe, which offers similar rich flavors in a comforting one-pot meal.

2. Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is key to recreating this restaurant-quality dish at home. Here’s what you’ll need for our Copycat Chicken Bryan Recipe:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp high-quality olive oil (extra virgin works best)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed for extra flavor), chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tbsp)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio) or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 4 oz creamy goat cheese (chevre), crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for finishing the sauce)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)

If you’re looking for more delicious dinner recipes to round out your meal planning, be sure to check out our extensive collection.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels – this helps achieve a perfect golden crust. Season generously on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the chicken and cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes per side until beautifully golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from the skillet and set aside on a warm plate.

For more tips on cooking perfect chicken every time, take a look at our About Me page where we share professional cooking techniques.

Step 2: Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t wash it – those browned bits are flavor gold!), add a bit more olive oil if needed. Reduce heat to medium and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute, stirring frequently. Deglaze the pan with white wine (or chicken broth), using a wooden spoon to scrape up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom. Let the liquid simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.

If you enjoy Mediterranean flavors, you might also love our collection of Easy Jewish Recipes that feature similar vibrant ingredients.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Goat Cheese Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Add the crumbled goat cheese a little at a time, stirring constantly until completely melted and the sauce is smooth. The gentle heat helps prevent the cheese from separating. Stir in the fresh basil and lemon juice – the acidity brightens all the flavors. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce and spooning the sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to heat through.

For another creamy chicken dish with a different twist, try our One Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Transfer the chicken to warm serving plates and spoon the remaining sauce generously over the top. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a lemon wedge for a beautiful presentation. The bright acidity of the lemon really makes the flavors pop! Serve immediately with your favorite sides – we recommend roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad to complete the meal.

For a sweet ending to your meal, consider our Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Loaf from our desserts collection – it pairs wonderfully with the flavors in this dish.

4. Tips for the Best Copycat Chicken Bryan

• Marinate for maximum flavor: For extra depth, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes to 2 hours before cooking.
• Cheese alternatives: If you don’t have goat cheese, cream cheese makes a decent substitute, though the flavor profile will be different. For authenticity, we recommend sticking with goat cheese.
• Perfect doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F without overcooking. Remove from heat at 160°F as residual heat will finish the cooking.
• Lighter options: For a healthier version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the goat cheese to 3 oz.
• Fresh is best: Always use fresh basil rather than dried for the brightest flavor. Add it at the end to preserve its vibrant color and aroma.

5. Serving Suggestions

This Copycat Chicken Bryan Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are our top recommendations:

• Garlic mashed potatoes: The creamy potatoes soak up the delicious sauce perfectly.
• Roasted asparagus or green beans: The crisp-tender vegetables provide a nice textural contrast.
• Crisp Caesar salad: The bold flavors complement the rich chicken beautifully.
• Crusty bread: Essential for mopping up every last bit of that incredible sauce!
• Buttered orzo or risotto: Makes a wonderful base for the chicken and sauce.

6. Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat:

1. For best results, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
2. Cover and heat gently, stirring occasionally, until warmed through (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Alternatively, microwave individual portions at 50% power in 30-second intervals until heated.

Note: The sauce may thicken when refrigerated – simply thin it with a little broth or cream when reheating.

7. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce while cooking the chicken fresh for best texture and flavor. The flavors actually improve as they meld overnight!

What can I use instead of white wine?

Chicken broth works perfectly as a substitute for white wine in this Copycat Chicken Bryan Recipe. For extra depth, use a combination of broth and 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar or lemon juice. According to AllRecipes’ version, you can also use vermouth for a different flavor profile.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, always check your specific ingredients (especially the sun-dried tomatoes and broth) to ensure they don’t contain any gluten additives or were processed in facilities with gluten.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Bone-in, skin-on thighs would be delicious – just adjust cooking time accordingly (about 8-10 minutes per side). The richer flavor of thighs pairs wonderfully with the sauce.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes with the garlic, or garnish with sliced fresh chili peppers for a spicy kick that balances the creamy sauce.

8. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-quality at home: Impress your family and guests with this elegant dish that tastes like it came from a fine Italian restaurant.
• Perfect for any occasion: Simple enough for weeknights yet special enough for date nights or dinner parties.
• Quick preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Flavor explosion: The combination of creamy goat cheese, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile pairing options: Complements a wide variety of sides from simple salads to elegant starches.
• Crowd-pleaser: Even picky eaters love this flavorful chicken dish.

9. Conclusion

This Copycat Chicken Bryan Recipe successfully brings the magic of Carrabba’s famous dish right to your home kitchen. With its perfect balance of creamy goat cheese, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil, it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. What makes this recipe truly special is how it transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience with minimal effort.

Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to elevate your weeknight dinners, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results every time. The sauce is so delicious you’ll want to put it on everything! We’d love to hear how your version turns out – share your experience in the comments below.

For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, explore our breakfast ideas or review our disclaimer and terms and conditions if you have any questions about our content.

Print