If you’re craving a dish that feels both elegant and comforting, the Chicken Bryan with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Goat Cheese Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. This vibrant recipe delivers juicy grilled chicken breasts layered with creamy, tangy goat cheese and a luscious sauce bursting with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of lemon. It’s one of those meals that feels like a special occasion but comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Trust me, once you taste the harmony of flavors in this recipe, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chicken Bryan with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Goat Cheese Sauce Recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. These simple staples come together to deliver brightness, creaminess, and a satisfying protein-packed base.
- Unsalted butter: Used both as a cooking fat and to enrich the sauce, giving it a smooth, velvety texture.
- Garlic (minced): Adds savory depth and a gentle pungency that compliments the chicken perfectly.
- Yellow onion (minced): Brings subtle sweetness and body to the sauce.
- Dry white wine: Introduces acidity and complexity, helping to deglaze the pan and intensify flavors.
- Lemon juice: Provides a fresh, zesty brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped): The star ingredient adding chewy texture and concentrated sweet-tart flavor.
- Fresh basil (chopped): Infuses the sauce with fragrant herbal notes that brighten the dish.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
- Skinless boneless chicken breasts: The lean, tender protein base that grills beautifully.
- Goat cheese: Soft and tangy, melting slightly on the hot chicken to create irresistible creaminess.
How to Make Chicken Bryan with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Goat Cheese Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by melting butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, toss in minced garlic and onion, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant, about 4 minutes. This builds a tender flavor base that your sauce will shine upon. Next, add dry white wine and fresh lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it reduce by half over roughly 8 minutes, concentrating all those delicious herbal and citrus notes. Lower the heat, and gradually whisk in cold butter pieces one at a time, creating a silky, rich texture. Finally, fold in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, kosher salt, and black pepper, stirring gently to marry the flavors. Cover the skillet to keep the sauce warm while you prepare the chicken.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and make sure to clean and grease the grates well — this prevents sticking and helps develop those gorgeous grill marks. Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and black pepper, pressing the seasoning in to ensure it sticks. Grill the chicken for about 8 to 10 minutes per side, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy results. The key here is not to rush; a steady heat will give you tender chicken with a slightly smoky char.
Step 3: Assemble Your Chicken Bryan with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Goat Cheese Sauce Recipe
Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, transfer it onto a serving plate. While still warm, divide creamy goat cheese evenly over each breast. The warmth of the chicken will soften the goat cheese just enough to become delightfully pillowy without losing its tang. Spoon the vibrant sun-dried tomato sauce generously over and around the chicken breasts to complete this stunning dish that’s sure to impress at any dinner.
How to Serve Chicken Bryan with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Goat Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra fresh basil leaves or a few torn sun-dried tomatoes scattered on top can add a visually appealing touch and boost the fresh herbal notes. A light drizzle of olive oil or a zest of lemon can also elevate the dish’s brightness and make every bite sing.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with light, simple sides. Think garlicky roasted asparagus, buttery mashed potatoes, or a crisp mixed green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette. Each complements the rich sauce and tender chicken without competing, creating a perfectly balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the chicken stacked over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside a colorful ratatouille for a rustic yet elegant presentation. Alternatively, slice the chicken and fan it out on the plate with sauce drizzled artistically for that restaurant-quality look at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Chicken Bryan with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Goat Cheese Sauce Recipe, store them in an airtight container refrigerated for up to three days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making for an excellent next-day meal.
Freezing
While the sauce and grilled chicken freeze well separately, goat cheese doesn’t maintain its original texture after freezing. For best results, freeze the chicken and sauce in airtight freezer-safe containers for up to two months, then add fresh goat cheese when reheating.
Reheating
To warm leftovers, gently reheat the chicken and sauce on the stovetop over low heat until just heated through, adding a splash of water or wine if needed to loosen the sauce. Add fresh goat cheese just before serving to keep its creamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring a little more juiciness and richness. Just adjust cooking time accordingly—they’ll typically take a bit longer on the grill to reach the safe internal temperature.
Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for the white wine in the sauce?
Yes, you can swap white wine for low-sodium chicken broth with a splash of white wine vinegar or lemon juice to maintain acidity and flavor complexity.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be prepared a day in advance and gently reheated before serving. Just whisk it well and add a bit of extra butter or broth to refresh the texture if needed.
How do I store goat cheese leftover from this recipe?
Keep goat cheese wrapped tightly in wax paper or plastic wrap, stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use within a week for the best quality and flavor.
What’s the best way to ensure juicy chicken when grilling?
Patting chicken dry and seasoning properly goes a long way. Also, avoid overcooking—use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This locks in the juices beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Bryan with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Goat Cheese Sauce Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly memorable. The burst of sun-dried tomatoes paired with the creamy tang of goat cheese over grilled chicken is a combination that’s hard to forget. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress guests, I can’t recommend it enough. Go on, give it a try, and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
PrintChicken Bryan with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Goat Cheese Sauce Recipe
Chicken Bryan is a flavorful grilled chicken breast dish topped with creamy goat cheese and a vibrant sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, butter, garlic, onion, white wine, and lemon juice. This Italian-inspired recipe combines tangy and rich flavors, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons yellow onion, minced
- ½ cup dry white wine
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, sliced into 8 pieces and kept cold
- 1 ½ cups sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Chicken:
- 6 skinless boneless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (8 ounce) package goat cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and yellow onion and saute until soft, about 4 minutes. Pour in ½ cup dry white wine and ¼ cup lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Continue cooking until the liquid reduces by half, approximately 8 minutes. Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in the cold butter slices one at a time until the sauce is smooth. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, kosher salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly. Remove from heat and keep warm with a lid.
- Preheat Grill or Grill Pan: Heat the grill or grill pan to medium-high. Clean and grease the grates to prevent sticking.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper, pressing the seasonings into the meat to adhere well.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill or grill pan. Cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken breasts to a serving plate. Divide the 8 ounces of goat cheese evenly over each breast. Spoon the warm sun-dried tomato sauce generously over the chicken and goat cheese, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is patted dry before seasoning to achieve a nice sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Keep the butter cold when adding it to the sauce to achieve a rich, silky texture.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a light green salad or roasted vegetables.
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the white wine with chicken broth and add a splash of white grape juice for sweetness.
