Making Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken Recipe is a truly enjoyable cooking experience that brings out the elite flavors of Italian cuisine. The chicken, marinated in a fragrant mix of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and fresh herbs, infuses with a rich depth of flavor.
The process begins with prepping the marinade, letting the chicken soak in it for hours to enhance its tenderness and taste. When grilling, the sizzling aroma fills the kitchen, making everyone anticipate the meal. I’m preparing this dish for close friends, who appreciate quality food and great company.
We enjoy the process together chopping, mixing, and sharing stories. As the chicken grills to perfection, the camaraderie builds, turning my kitchen into a lively, delicious space. It’s a time of laughter, culinary creativity, and shared joy.
Why Peoples Like Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken Recipe?
People love Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken Recipe because of its flavorful and smoky taste, achieved by grilling the chicken to perfection with a blend of savory seasonings. The dish features tender, juicy chicken marinated with Italian herbs and spices, giving it a deliciously unique flavor.
The light yet satisfying meal is often paired with fresh sides, making it a healthy and flavorful option for a wide range of tastes. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a favorite for many!
How To Parepare Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken Recipe?
Before diving into the preparation details, let’s take a quick look at the recipe’s essential information:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Yield: 4 servings
- Kitchen Utensils: Grill or Grill Pan, Tongs, Mixing Bowl, Basting Brush, Plate
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to make Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken at home. These ingredients are simple yet flavorful, and they come together beautifully to create an irresistible dish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for basting)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Start by trimming any excess fat off the chicken breasts. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly. You want each piece to be of similar size for consistent grilling.
2. Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon zest, and the juice of 1 lemon. Stir well to create a marinade. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Place the chicken breasts in the bowl and toss them until they are fully coated with the marinade. Cover and let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes. For best results, marinate for up to 2 hours if you have the time.
3. Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This will give the chicken those perfect grill marks and smoky flavor. Make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken; otherwise, it could stick.
4. Grill the Chicken
Once the grill is ready, place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. You’ll want to cook the chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. Avoid flipping the chicken too often to maintain those beautiful grill marks.
5. Baste the Chicken
While grilling, periodically brush the chicken with the remaining marinade to keep it moist and flavorful. This step adds a layer of richness to the grilled chicken.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once your chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, keeping it juicy and tender. Before serving, garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Here’s a general breakdown of the nutrition content for one serving of Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken. This will give you an idea of how healthy this dish is when served on its own.
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 240mg
- Potassium: 500mg
How To Make With More Delicious Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken Recipe?
1. Marinate with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Zest
Enhance the flavor of the chicken by marinating it in a mixture of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano, along with a generous amount of lemon zest. This will infuse the chicken with a fresh, fragrant taste and a zesty kick.
2. Add a Garlic Butter Glaze
After grilling the chicken, brush it with a rich garlic butter glaze. You can mix melted butter with minced garlic, a touch of lemon juice, and some chopped parsley. This adds a luxurious, savory finish to the chicken.
3. Serve with Roasted Vegetables
Pair your Tuscan Grilled Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. The natural sweetness of roasted vegetables complements the smoky flavor of the grilled chicken.
4. Top with Fresh Tomato Basil Relish
Create a topping with fresh tomatoes, basil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of olive oil. This will add a burst of fresh flavor and a little tanginess, making the dish feel even more vibrant.
5. Grilled Lemon and Parmesan Garnish
For an extra layer of flavor, grill lemon halves alongside the chicken and squeeze them over the top just before serving. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken Recipe for a savory finish that brings all the flavors together beautifully.
Hints And Tips For Successful Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken Recipe
1. Marinate for Flavor:
Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) in the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and herbs mixture to ensure maximum flavor.
2. Properly Preheat the Grill:
Make sure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it. This helps achieve those signature grill marks and ensures the chicken cooks evenly.
3. Don’t Overcook:
Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side (depending on thickness). Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F for juicy, tender chicken.
4. Let the Chicken Rest:
After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
5. Add Fresh Herbs:
Garnish with fresh basil or rosemary for an extra burst of flavor that complements the grilled chicken and enhances the Tuscan-style dish
Special Note:
If you prefer a smoky flavor, I suggest using a charcoal grill instead of a gas grill. The smoky aroma can add an extra layer of flavor that complements the zesty marinade. Also, if you want to make the dish a bit heartier, you can serve the Tuscan grilled chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Storage And Shelf Life Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken Recipe
Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken Recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. To maintain its flavor and texture, it is best to store the chicken separately from any sauces.
If you want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. When reheating, it’s recommended to do so in a gentle manner, either in the oven or on the stove, to preserve its juiciness and tenderness.
Conclusion:
Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that combines simplicity and deliciousness in every bite. With its zesty lemon flavor, aromatic herbs, and tender grilled chicken, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
The great thing about this recipe is that it’s both easy to make and incredibly flavorful, bringing restaurant-quality food right into your home. I hope this recipe brings some joy to your kitchen and your taste buds! It’s a fantastic dish to add to your regular rotation, and I’m sure your family and friends will love it as much as mine do. Enjoy!
