This Copycat Chicken Bryan is a restaurant-style favorite you can make at home. Juicy grilled chicken breasts are topped with creamy goat cheese and a tangy sun-dried tomato basil lemon butter sauce – just like the beloved dish from Carrabba’s Italian Grill.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings a fine dining experience to your own kitchen. The flavorful topping is rich yet fresh, with sun-dried tomatoes, basil, lemon juice, and creamy goat cheese. It’s a perfect choice for special dinners, entertaining guests, or simply treating yourself. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare!

Ingredients

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

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced yellow onion
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2/3 cup cold butter, sliced
• 1 1/2 cups chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, or as needed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 (8-ounce) package goat cheese (caprino)

Directions

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add garlic and onion; cook until tender, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Stir in white wine and lemon juice. Increase heat to medium-high and simmer until the mixture is reduced by half, about 10 minutes.
3. Reduce heat to low and whisk in cold butter, one slice at a time, until sauce is emulsified. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, basil, kosher salt, and white pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate.
6. Grill chicken until no longer pink in the center and juices run clear, 15–20 minutes.
7. In the last few minutes of grilling, top each breast with goat cheese and allow it to soften.
8. Spoon the sun-dried tomato sauce over the chicken before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: 6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Use grilled sirloin or pork chops instead of chicken.
• Try feta or cream cheese as a goat cheese substitute.
• Add a splash of cream to the sauce for extra richness.
• Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or sautéed spinach.
• Use marinated grilled chicken for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. For best texture, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce when reheating.

FAQs

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce up to a day in advance. Reheat gently before serving.

What wine is best for the sauce?

Choose a dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Absolutely. Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Is goat cheese necessary?

Goat cheese adds signature flavor, but feta or cream cheese can be used in a pinch.

How do I prevent the butter sauce from breaking?

Add cold butter one piece at a time over low heat and whisk constantly to form an emulsion.

Can I use jarred sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, either dry-packed or oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes work well.

What can I serve with Chicken Bryan?

Great sides include mashed potatoes, pasta, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use less butter and substitute light cream cheese or skip the cheese topping.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in the sauce and cheese.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Check for an internal temperature of 165°F or clear juices when pierced with a fork.

Conclusion

This Copycat Chicken Bryan recipe captures the signature flavors of the Carrabba’s classic right in your home kitchen. With tender grilled chicken, creamy goat cheese, and a rich, tangy sauce, it’s a dish that impresses with every bite. Whether for a family dinner or special occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite.

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