Before diving into the main dish, let’s chat about what to pair it with. This beautifully flavorful chicken dish pairs perfectly with Italian Pasta Salad loaded with chickpeas, fresh veggies, and a homemade zesty Italian dressing. Additionally, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or even a light Caprese salad would work wonders in balancing out the richness of Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria.
Ever caught yourself daydreaming about that lip-smacking meal you had at Carrabba’s? Me too, and top of that list is often Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria. Lucky for you, I’ve got a foolproof copycat recipe that’ll transport you back to that culinary paradise from the comfort of your home. Let’s take this delectable journey together, shall we?
What is Copycat Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria?
So, what is this dish, you ask? Think succulent chicken breasts stuffed with Fontina cheese and prosciutto, all dressed up with a divine lemon basil cream sauce. It’s a flavor-packed, hearty dish that brings the authentic taste of Italy straight into your home kitchen.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Copycat Versions?
While there are many attempts to recreate this dish, my version focuses on authenticity and simplicity. The secret here lies in the quality of the ingredients and a few chef-inspired techniques that catapult this dish into restaurant-quality territory. We’re talking clarified butter for sautéing and a homemade lemon basil cream sauce that balances acidity and richness like a pro.
You will also like the following Dinner recipes!
How Does It Taste Like?
Dive into the goodness of this dish, and each bite reveals layers of flavors. The cheese oozes in the mouth with the salty kick of prosciutto, while the lemon basil sauce elevates the taste profile to a fresh, herby heaven. It’s comforting yet sophisticated, exactly how Italian cuisine should feel.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
Let’s keep it simple:
- 1/2 cup clarified butter
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, butterflied
- 1/2 cup Fontina cheese, shredded
- 4 slices of cured prosciutto
- 8 ounces of cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 sweet onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Butterfly the chicken breasts to create a pocket for the stuffing. Place a slice of prosciutto and a handful of Fontina cheese into each pocket. Secure with toothpicks.
Step 2: Sautéing
In a large skillet, heat the clarified butter over medium-high heat. Sauté the stuffed chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides, around 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Making the Sauce Base
Using the same skillet, add the unsalted butter, cremini mushrooms, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the mushrooms and onions are tender.
Step 4: Adding Flavor
Once your veggies are ready, pour in the dry white wine. Let it reduce by half, then mix in the Dijon mustard and chopped thyme. Stir well.
Step 5: Bringing It All Together
Add the chicken back into the skillet, cover, and let it cook for another 15 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Stir in the lemon juice and fresh basil just before serving.
Tips & Tricks On Making Copycat Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria
- Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients; they make all the difference.
- Clarified Butter: This helps to prevent burning and adds a bit of a richer flavor.
- Even Cooking: Make sure the chicken breasts are even in thickness for uniform cooking.
- Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest a bit after cooking to retain its juices.
- Cheese Choices: If you can’t find Fontina, Gouda or Havarti work wonders, too.
Nutrition Information
How Do I Store This Dish?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop to maintain the texture and flavor.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Copycat Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria?
- Cheese: Swap Fontina with Gouda or Havarti.
- White Wine: Chicken broth works if you prefer an alcohol-free version.
- Clarified Butter: Regular olive oil is a good alternative.
- Prosciutto: Use bacon or pancetta.
- Thyme: Rosemary or oregano can step in nicely.
Copycat carrabba’s pollo rosa maria
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Toothpicks
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup clarified butter
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, butterflied
- 1/2 cup Fontina cheese shredded
- 4 slices of cured prosciutto
- 8 ounces of cremini mushrooms sliced
- 1/2 sweet onion finely diced
- 3 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
- Butterfly the chicken breasts to create a pocket for the stuffing. Place a slice of prosciutto and a handful of Fontina cheese into each pocket. Secure with toothpicks.
Step 2: Sautéing
- In a large skillet, heat the clarified butter over medium-high heat. Sauté the stuffed chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides, around 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Making the Sauce Base
- Using the same skillet, add the unsalted butter, cremini mushrooms, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the mushrooms and onions are tender.
Step 4: Adding Flavor
- Once your veggies are ready, pour in the dry white wine. Let it reduce by half, then mix in the Dijon mustard and chopped thyme. Stir well.
Step 5: Bringing It All Together
- Add the chicken back into the skillet, cover, and let it cook for another 15 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Stir in the lemon juice and fresh basil just before serving.
Notes
- Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients; they make all the difference.
- Clarified Butter: This helps to prevent burning and adds a bit of a richer flavor.
- Even Cooking: Make sure the chicken breasts are even in thickness for uniform cooking.
- Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest a bit after cooking to retain its juices.
- Cheese Choices: If you can’t find Fontina, Gouda or Havarti work wonders, too.
Nutrition
Five Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. Prepare the chicken and sauce, then refrigerate. Heat it just before serving.
2. Is This Recipe Kid-Friendly?
Yes! Just dial down the seasoning a bit if your kids prefer milder flavors.
3. Can I Freeze It?
You can, but freshly made is best. Freeze the components separately for up to a month.
4. What Can I Serve With It?
Popular options include garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a light Caprese salad.
5. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
You sure can! Thighs tend to be juicier and equally delicious with slight modifications in cooking time.
Conclusion
Copycat Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria offers a taste of Italian comfort with ingredients you can find at your local grocery store. Combine them with a little effort, and you’ll have a dish that tastes like it’s straight out of a fancy restaurant. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is bound to impress.
Give it a spin, and let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking!
