Last Updated on December 1, 2023
Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken is an Italian-inspired dish that is full of flavor and incredibly easy to make. The combination of fresh herbs and spices, along with a light marinade, gives the chicken a unique flavor that is sure to please.
The recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion and is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
What is Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken?
Carrabba’s Italian Grill is a US based restaurant shop. One of their famous items, Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken is a simple and flavorful dish that consists of chicken breasts that are marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs.
The chicken is then grilled until it is cooked through and charred to perfection. The marinade adds a subtle and savory flavor to the chicken that is both delicious and easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love this Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken?
Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken is a great option for those who are looking for an easy and flavorful dinner. The marinade adds incredible flavor to the chicken and the grilling process adds a smoky and charred taste to the dish.
The marinade also has the added benefit of tenderizing the chicken, making it a great option for those looking for a juicy and tender chicken dish.
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How Does It Taste Like?
The combination of herbs and spices in the marinade give the chicken an incredibly flavorful taste. The grilled chicken has a smoky and charred taste thanks to the grilling process, while the marinade adds a subtle and savory flavor.
The lemon juice in the marinade adds a brightness to the dish that helps to balance out the other flavors.
Ingredients
To prepare the Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken, you’ll need these following ingredients:
Rsemary (chopped): Rosemary is an aromatic herb that imparts a savory and earthy flavor to the chicken. Chopped rosemary in the marinade enhances the overall Mediterranean profile of the dish.
Lemon Slices (Adjust the number of slices based on your preference): Lemon slices contribute a citrusy and zesty flavor to the grilled chicken. They also add visual appeal and freshness to the dish.
Kosher salt (according to your preference): Kosher salt is used for seasoning the chicken, enhancing its natural flavors. It also contributes to the overall taste balance of the dish.
olive oil (4 ½ tbsp): Olive oil is used for marinating the chicken and brushing it during grilling. It adds richness, moisture, and a distinct Mediterranean flavor to the chicken.
lemon juice (½ tbsp): Lemon juice adds acidity and brightness to the marinade. It complements the olive oil and helps tenderize the chicken while adding a tangy flavor.
2 lbs of chicken (4 chicken breasts, large): Chicken breasts are the main protein source for this dish. Grilling them imparts a smoky flavor and adds a charred exterior, enhancing the overall taste and texture.
Arugula (or adjust this to your liking): Arugula is a peppery and slightly bitter green that serves as a fresh and vibrant bed for the grilled chicken. It adds a contrasting texture and flavor to the dish.
Ground black pepper (use according to your taste): Black pepper provides a mild heat and complements the other flavors in the marinade. It adds depth and a bit of spiciness to the dish.
Directions
Making this Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken is incredibly easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide for making this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare The Chicken
Embark on the journey to flavor by taking each chicken breast and generously rubbing them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Ensure a thorough coating, promising a symphony of succulence and aromas.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
Set the stage for the grilling spectacle by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This crucial step ensures the ideal cooking environment for achieving that perfect char and tenderness.
Step 3: Season with Rosemary
Elevate the flavor profile by introducing the aromatic dance of rosemary. Sprinkle the finely chopped rosemary over the chicken breasts, pressing it into the surface to ensure a marriage of flavors.
Step 4: Season with Salt and Pepper
With an artisan’s touch, season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and ground black pepper. Allow your taste preferences to guide this step, ensuring the perfect balance of seasoning for each bite.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated grill, letting them sizzle and sear to perfection. Grill for approximately 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches a safe and succulent 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 6: Lemon Slices
Introduce a citrusy melody to the grilling symphony. During the final minutes of grilling, add lemon slices to the grill, allowing them to acquire a slight char that will infuse the dish with a burst of citrus flavor.
Step 7: Prepare Arugula Salad
While the chicken is undergoing its transformation on the grill, turn your attention to the refreshing arugula salad. In a bowl, toss the arugula with 2 ½ tablespoons of olive oil and a drizzle of lemon juice. Season this vibrant green ensemble with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring a harmonious complement to the grilled chicken.
Step 8: Assemble the Dish
As the grilling spectacle nears its climax, carefully remove the perfectly cooked chicken from the grill and allow it to rest for a few minutes. This step ensures that the juices redistribute, preserving the chicken’s moistness.
Step 9: Plate the Chicken
Plate the star of the show—the grilled chicken breasts—placing them atop a bed of the vibrant arugula salad. This presentation promises a feast for the eyes and the palate.
Step 10: Garnish with Grilled Lemon
Bestow a finishing touch of elegance and flavor by garnishing the grilled chicken with the char-kissed lemon slices. This not only adds visual appeal but also imparts a burst of citrusy freshness.
Step 11: Serve & Enjoy
The grand finale is at hand. Present Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken immediately, inviting your guests to savor the flavorful combination of expertly grilled chicken, aromatic rosemary, and the invigorating freshness of the arugula salad. Each bite is a celebration of culinary mastery and the joy of shared moments around the table.
Tips
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- To ensure the chicken is cooked through, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken and it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- If you are using a grill pan, make sure to preheat it before adding the chicken to prevent it from sticking.
- You can serve the grilled chicken with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, pasta, or potatoes.
Nutrition Information
One serving of Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken contains approximately:
- 320 calories
- 10 grams of fat
- 2 grams of carbohydrates; and
- 28 grams of protein
How to Store Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken?
The grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium-high heat until it is heated through.
What Other Substitute Can I Use in Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken?
If you don’t have the ingredients listed in the recipe, there are some substitutions you can make.
- Olive Oil: You can use any type of oil for the marinade, such as canola oil, vegetable oil, or coconut oil.
- Garlic: Garlic powder or minced garlic from a jar can be used in place of fresh garlic.
- Lemon Juice: You can use white wine or apple cider vinegar in place of the lemon juice.
- Herbs: If you don’t have access to fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs. You can also substitute other herbs such as rosemary and thyme for the oregano, parsley, and basil.
- Kosher Salt: You can use regular table salt or sea salt in place of the kosher salt.
Equipment
- Grill or Microwave Oven
- large pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Basting Brush
- 1 Large Ziplock Bag
- baking dish
- Grater, etc
Ingredients
- 2 lbs of chicken 4 large chicken breasts
- 4 ½ tbsp olive oil
- Lemon Slices Adjust the number of slices based on your preference
- Ground black pepper Use according to your preference
- 1/4 cup rosemary chopped
- 1/2 cup arugula or adjust this to your liking
- Kosher salt according to your taste
- ½ tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare The Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Add Rosemary: Sprinkle the chopped rosemary over the chicken breasts, pressing it into the surface for better adherence.
- Add Seasonings: Season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and ground black pepper according to your taste preference.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated grill and cook for approximately 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Add Lemon Slices: During the last few minutes of grilling, add lemon slices to the grill, allowing them to get a slight char.
- Arugula Salad: While the chicken is grilling, toss the arugula in a bowl with 2 ½ tablespoons of olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Plate: Plate the grilled chicken breasts, placing them on a bed of the arugula salad.
- Garnish: Garnish the chicken with the grilled lemon slices for a burst of citrus flavor.
- Serve: Serve Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken immediately, enjoying the flavorful combination of grilled chicken, aromatic rosemary, and the freshness of arugula.
Notes
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- To ensure the chicken is cooked through, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken and it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- If you are using a grill pan, make sure to preheat it before adding the chicken to prevent it from sticking.
- You can serve the grilled chicken with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, pasta, or potatoes.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much time do I need to marinate the chicken?
A: You should marinate the chicken for at least 3 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
Q: Can I use other types of oil for the marinade?
A: Yes, you can use any type of oil for the marinade, such as canola oil, vegetable oil, or coconut oil.
Q: Can I use other herbs in place of the oregano, parsley, and basil?
A: Yes, you can substitute other herbs such as rosemary and thyme for the oregano, parsley, and basil.
Q: How long can I store the grilled chicken?
A: The grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I use other types of vinegar in place of the lemon juice?
A: Yes, you can use white wine or apple cider vinegar in place of the lemon juice.
Q: Can I use other types of salt in place of kosher salt?
A: Yes, you can use regular table salt or sea salt in place of the kosher salt.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken and it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Conclusion
Carrabba’s Tuscan Grilled Chicken is a flavorful and easy dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of herbs and spices in the marinade adds incredible flavor to the chicken, while the grilling process adds a smoky and charred taste.
The marinade also has the added benefit of tenderizing the chicken, making it a great option for those looking for a juicy and tender chicken dish. With a few simple ingredients and a few steps, you can have this delicious dish on the table in no time.