Ever crave a juicy, flavorful chicken recipe that’s easy to make but tastes like it came from a top-tier Italian restaurant?

Let me introduce you to my take on Carrabba’s Grilled Chicken Recipe—a dish that never fails to impress at family dinners, BBQs, or just when you want something delicious on the table in no time.

This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with Italian flavors. The best part? You don’t need any special equipment or advanced techniques—just your everyday kitchen tools and ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

Whether you’re a fan of grilled chicken or looking to recreate that restaurant-quality dish at home, this recipe has got you covered.

Let me share why this Carrabba’s Grilled Chicken has become one of my go-to dinners. It’s not just the ease—it’s the perfect blend of seasoning and that buttery, tangy basting sauce that makes each bite memorable.

Carrabba’s Grilled Chicken Recipe

This Carrabba’s Grilled Chicken Recipe is all about simplicity and bold flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or to impress guests on the weekend.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Main Course
Difficulty: Easy
Yield: 4 servings
Calories Per Serving: 320

Ingredients

For The Chicken:

4 skinless chicken breasts
2 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp granulated garlic
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried oregano

For The Basting Sauce:

4 tbsp unsalted butter
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tsp sugar
2 tbsp chopped Italian parsley

Optional Variations:

Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier cut.
For a spicier kick, add ½ tsp red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare The Chicken

In a small bowl, mix the kosher salt, black pepper, granulated garlic, onion powder, and dried oregano.
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and rub the seasoning blend evenly on both sides. Let it sit for about 10 minutes while you prepare the basting sauce.

Step 2: Make The Basting Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour into the mixture, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to cook the raw taste out of the flour.
Add the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and sugar. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
Let the sauce cook for about 2-3 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Stir in the chopped parsley and set aside.

Step 3: Grill The Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Pro Tip: Avoid flipping too often to keep the chicken juicy. Let it sear and develop those beautiful grill marks!
In the last 2-3 minutes of grilling, generously brush the basting sauce over the chicken to lock in moisture and flavor.

Step 4: Serve And Enjoy

Once grilled to perfection, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serve the chicken with an extra drizzle of the basting sauce for that irresistible flavor boost!

Cooking Tips

Perfect Grill Marks: Make sure the grill is hot enough before placing the chicken. This will give you those nice, professional-looking grill marks.
Pairing Suggestions: This grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple Caesar salad. Want to take it up a notch? Serve it alongside a chilled glass of white wine.
Dietary Adjustments: To make this recipe dairy-free, swap the butter for olive oil. You can also skip the flour in the basting sauce to keep it gluten-free.
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat in a skillet over low heat.

What Is Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken?

Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken is a popular menu item known for its simple, yet bold flavors.

The chicken is seasoned with Italian herbs and grilled to perfection, often served with a light lemon-butter sauce. It’s a fan favorite for its juicy texture and that signature Tuscan touch.

What’s In Carrabba’s Chicken Trio?

Carrabba’s Chicken Trio typically includes Chicken Bryan, Pollo Rosa Maria, and Grilled Chicken, each served with a unique sauce like lemon butter or tomato basil.

What Kind Of Cheese Does Carrabba’s Use?

Carrabba’s often uses goat cheese, particularly in their famous Chicken Bryan recipe. Goat cheese adds a tangy, creamy layer that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

This Carrabba’s Grilled Chicken is great with:

Garlic mashed potatoes
Roasted Brussels sprouts
A side of creamy risotto
A light garden salad

For a full Italian feast, serve it alongside warm garlic bread and a side of pasta!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Cook This Recipe Without A Grill?

Yes! You can use a grill pan on your stovetop or even bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes.

Can I Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs Instead?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well and will give you a juicier result. Just adjust the cooking time as needed—thighs might take a little longer to cook through.

Can I Prepare The Basting Sauce In Advance?

Yes, you can make the sauce up to 2 days ahead. Store it in the fridge and reheat it gently before using.

Conclusion

I hope you give this Carrabba’s Grilled Chicken Recipe a try! It’s easy, flavorful, and a crowd-pleaser every time.

Don’t forget to share your results in the comments below or tag me on social media. Looking for more delicious recipes? Explore other Italian-inspired dishes on my blog!

Happy cooking!

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Naznin Aktar

Author & Recipe Developer at Naznin's Kitchen

Hello! I'm Naznin Aktar, the food enthusiast and recipe curator at Naznin's Kitchen. Want to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary dishes? Explore Naznin's Kitchen for a collection of recipes that are sure to inspire your inner chef and delight your loved ones.