How to Cook Chicken Bryan: A Delicious Italian-American Classic

Craving a dish that combines juicy grilled chicken with tangy flavors and creamy textures? Look no further! We’re about to dive into the delightful world of Chicken Bryan, a mouthwatering Italian-American classic. This recipe brings together succulent chicken breasts, creamy goat cheese, and zesty sun-dried tomatoes, all drizzled with a luscious lemon butter sauce. Ready to turn your kitchen into a gourmet haven? Let’s get started!

Introduction to Chicken Bryan

What Is Chicken Bryan?

Chicken Bryan is a delectable dish that blends the best of Italian and American culinary traditions. It features tender grilled chicken breasts topped with melting goat cheese, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves. But what truly ties this dish together is the rich lemon butter sauce that adds a burst of flavor to every bite. The combination of these ingredients creates a harmonious medley that’s both comforting and elegant.

The Origin of Chicken Bryan

Why Is It Called Chicken Bryan?

You might be wondering about the story behind the name Chicken Bryan. Well, it’s named after Bryan, Texas—the hometown of the Carrabba family, founders of the renowned Carrabba’s Italian Grill. This dish was created to pay homage to their roots, blending traditional Italian recipes with flavors beloved in their local community. By naming it after their hometown, they shared a piece of their heritage with diners everywhere.

Ingredients Needed for Chicken Bryan

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Bryan

To create this restaurant-quality dish at home, gather the following ingredients:

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless, and preferably organic for the best flavor and texture.
• Goat Cheese: Creamy and slightly tangy, it melts beautifully over warm chicken.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add a concentrated tomato flavor with a hint of sweetness.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Provide a fragrant, herbal note that brightens the dish.
• Lemon Butter Sauce: A velvety sauce made from butter, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.

Understanding the Ingredients

Silking Chicken

Ever heard of silking chicken? It’s a technique where chicken is marinated in a mixture of egg whites and cornstarch. This method, commonly used in Chinese cuisine, results in incredibly tender and velvety chicken. While not a traditional step in making Chicken Bryan, incorporating this technique can take the tenderness of your chicken to new heights.

Chicken Tendons

Are Chicken Tendons OK to Eat?

When prepping your chicken breasts, you might notice white, stringy tendons running through the meat. While these tendons are safe to eat, they can be tough and chewy, potentially detracting from the overall enjoyment of your dish. It’s a good idea to remove them using a sharp knife or kitchen shears to ensure your chicken is as tender as possible.

Nutritional Information

Nutritional Content (per 100g)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	180 kcal
Protein	22 g
Fat	9 g
Carbohydrates	2 g
Fiber	0.5 g
Sodium	150 mg

Step-by-Step Recipe for Chicken Bryan

Ready to bring the Chicken Bryan magic to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that’s sure to make your taste buds dance. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon shallots, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 4 ounces goat cheese, sliced
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Remove Chicken Tendons:
   • Place the chicken breast on a cutting board.
   • Locate the white tendon at one end of the breast.
   • Grip the tendon with a paper towel for better hold.
   • Using a sharp knife, gently cut alongside the tendon while pulling it away from the meat.
2. Optional – Silking the Chicken(for extra tenderness):
   • In a bowl, whisk together 1 egg white and 2 tablespoons cornstarch.
   • Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re fully coated.
   • Let them marinate for 30 minutes.
   • Rinse off the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate:
   • Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, turning to coat evenly.
   • Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours for more flavor).

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter.
   • Add minced garlic and shallots.
   • Cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
2. Add Liquids:
   • Stir in lemon juice and chicken broth.
   • Bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Finish the Sauce:
   • Reduce heat to low.
   • Whisk in the remaining 2 tablespoons butter until smooth.
   • Stir in fresh parsley.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Keep warm on low heat.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat Grill:
   • Heat your grill to medium-high.
   • Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
2. Grill:
   • Remove chicken from the marinade; let excess drip off.
   • Grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Alternative Cooking Methods:
   • Oven-Baking:
     • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
     • Place chicken on a baking sheet.
     • Bake for 25-30 minutes.
   • Pan-Searing:
     • Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil.
     • Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side.

Step 5: Assemble the Chicken Bryan

1. Add Goat Cheese:
   • While the chicken is hot, place a slice of goat cheese on each breast.
   • Allow the cheese to soften and slightly melt.
2. Top with Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
   • Sprinkle sun-dried tomatoes over the goat cheese.
3. Drizzle Lemon Butter Sauce:
   • Spoon the warm lemon butter sauce over each piece.
4. Garnish:
   • Finish with fresh basil leaves on top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Transfer to serving plates.
• Pair with your favorite sides (we’ll suggest some next!).

Nutritional Information (per 100g)

Nutrient	Amount per 100g
Calories	180 kcal
Protein	22 g
Fat	9 g
Carbohydrates	2 g
Fiber	0.5 g
Sodium	150 mg

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Now that your Chicken Bryan is ready, let’s talk about making the meal even more delightful. Pairing it with the right sides can turn dinner into a culinary experience!

Tasty Side Dishes for Chicken Bryan

Pasta Options

• Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil:
  • Cook angel hair pasta according to package instructions.
  • Toss with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  • Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
• Lemon Herb Orzo:
  • Prepare orzo pasta until al dente.
  • Mix in lemon zest, chopped basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Vegetable Sides

• Steamed Asparagus:
  • Steam asparagus spears until tender-crisp.
  • Season with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Roasted Broccoli:
  • Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  • Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes until slightly crispy.

Rice and Grains

• Herbed Quinoa:
  • Cook quinoa according to package directions.
  • Stir in chopped parsley, lemon juice, and a dash of olive oil.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
  • Boil and mash potatoes.
  • Mix in roasted garlic, butter, and a splash of milk.

Fresh Salads

• Mixed Greens Salad:
  • Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers.
  • Dress with a simple lemon vinaigrette.
• Caprese Salad:
  • Layer slices of tomato, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves.
  • Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

Non-Alcoholic Beverage Pairings

Refreshing Drinks

• Lemon Basil Infused Water:
  • In a pitcher, combine water, lemon slices, and basil leaves.
  • Chill for at least 1 hour.
• Sparkling Citrus Punch:
  • Mix sparkling water with a splash of orange juice and lime slices.
• Herbal Iced Tea:
  • Brew your favorite herbal tea.
  • Serve over ice with a hint of honey and a slice of lemon.

Presentation Tips

• Plating:
  • Place the Chicken Bryan at the center of the plate.
  • Arrange sides neatly around the main dish.
• Garnishing:
  • Sprinkle extra fresh herbs over the plate.
  • Add a thin slice of lemon or a few sun-dried tomatoes for color.

Creating a Memorable Meal

Setting the scene can make your meal even more special. Consider these ideas:

• Table Setting:
  • Use your favorite dishes and silverware.
  • Add cloth napkins for an elegant touch.
• Atmosphere:
  • Light candles or play soft music.
  • Enjoy the meal with family or friends for a delightful experience.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to suit your preferences. With Chicken Bryan as the star, your meal is sure to be a hit!

Tips, Tricks, and Variations

Chef’s Tips for the Best Chicken Bryan

Cooking Chicken Bryan at home is a joy, and with a few handy tips, you can make it even better!

Choose Quality Ingredients

• Fresh Chicken Breasts: Opt for high-quality, organic chicken breasts for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Premium Goat Cheese: Using a creamy, high-quality goat cheese will make your dish extra delectable.
• Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley bring vibrant flavors that dried herbs just can’t match.

Master the Grilling Technique

• Even Thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook uniformly.
• Preheat the Grill: Always preheat your grill to the right temperature before adding the chicken.
• Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Overcooked chicken can be dry.

Perfecting the Lemon Butter Sauce

• Low and Slow: Melt the butter over low heat to prevent it from separating.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for that zesty kick.
• Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the sauce by adding a bit more garlic or herbs according to your preference.

Delicious Variations to Try

Dietary Adjustments

• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check labels on ingredients like chicken broth to confirm.
• Low-Carb Meal: Serve with steamed veggies or a fresh salad to keep the meal low in carbohydrates.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute goat cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Flavor Twists

• Different Cheeses: Try using feta cheese for a saltier punch or mozzarella for a milder taste.
• Add Some Heat: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes to the lemon butter sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herb Variations: Swap basil for oregano or thyme to change up the herbal notes.

Vegetarian Version

• Portobello Mushrooms: Replace chicken breasts with large portobello mushroom caps. Grill them and top with the same delicious ingredients.
• Eggplant Slices: Grilled slices of eggplant can also serve as a hearty base.

Meal Prep and Storage

• Make Ahead: Prepare the lemon butter sauce and chop the toppings in advance for quick assembly later.
• Storing Leftovers: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken tough.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cooking can sometimes spark a few questions. Here are answers to common queries about making Chicken Bryan.

FAQs

Why Is It Called Chicken Bryan?

As we mentioned earlier, Chicken Bryan is named after Bryan, Texas, the hometown of the Carrabba family. They created this dish to honor their roots and share a piece of their heritage with diners.

Are Chicken Tendons OK to Eat?

While chicken tendons are safe to eat, they can be chewy and tough. Removing them improves the texture of your chicken, making each bite more enjoyable.

What Is Silking Chicken?

Silking chicken is a technique where chicken is marinated in a mixture of egg whites and cornstarch. This method tenderizes the meat, giving it a velvety texture. It’s an optional step that can enhance your Chicken Bryan.

Can I Make Chicken Bryan Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can:

• Marinate the Chicken: Up to 24 hours in advance.
• Prepare the Sauce: Make the lemon butter sauce and refrigerate. Reheat gently when ready to use.
• Assemble Before Serving: Grill the chicken and assemble the toppings just before serving for the best taste.

How Many Calories Are in Chicken Bryan?

A serving of Chicken Bryan contains approximately 180 calories per 100g. Keep in mind this can vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

What Can I Use Instead of Goat Cheese?

If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with:

• Feta Cheese: Adds a salty, tangy flavor.
• Cream Cheese: Offers a milder taste with a creamy texture.
• Mozzarella: For a classic, melty cheese experience.

Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes, Chicken Bryan is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to use gluten-free chicken broth and verify that all packaged ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken without toppings for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I Use Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil?

Yes, sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can be used. Just be sure to drain excess oil before chopping them for the recipe.

What’s the Best Way to Reheat Chicken Bryan?

The best method is to:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish.
• Cover with foil to keep it moist.
• Heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.

Conclusion

Enjoy Your Homemade Chicken Bryan!

There you have it—a complete guide to making Chicken Bryan right in your own kitchen. This dish, with its tender grilled chicken and flavorful toppings, is sure to become a family favorite. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a wonderful way to bring a touch of Italian-American cuisine to your dinner table.

Share the Joy

Why keep all this yumminess to yourself? Share the recipe with friends and family, host a dinner party, or make it a part of your regular meal rotation. Cooking at home allows you to control the ingredients, adjust flavors to your liking, and, best of all, enjoy the fruits of your labor.

We’d Love to Hear From You

Tried the recipe? Got your own twist to it? Let us know how your Chicken Bryan turned out! Your feedback and creativity make our cooking community thrive.

By following this guide, you’re well on your way to crafting a delightful dish that’s both satisfying and impressive. Happy cooking!