Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria Recipe – Cravefuly

By Kimberly Booker RD | Published on January 28, 2024, | Last updated on January 30, 2024

If you are a fan of American cuisine, then you must have heard of Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria. This mouthwatering dish is a true delight for your taste buds. With its combination of flavors and rich ingredients, it has become a favorite among many food enthusiasts. 

In this blog post, we will explore what Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria recipe is all about, how it tastes, why you’ll love it, the ingredients required, step-by-step directions to prepare it, tips to make it perfect, nutrition information, storage recommendations, and even substitute options. So let’s dig in!

Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria Recipe

What is Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria?

Carrabba’s Italian Grill is indeed an American restaurant chain that specializes in Italian-American cuisine. One of its most popular items is Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria. It is a delectable chicken dish that originates from a popular Italian restaurant called Carrabba’s Italian Grill.

It is made using butterflied chicken breasts filled with prosciutto and Fontina cheese, then rolled up and cooked to perfection. The dish is served with a delicious garlic and mushroom sauce, which adds a delightful flavor to the chicken. Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria is known for its savory taste and is a perfect choice for any Italian food lover.

How Does It Taste Like?

The taste of Pollo Rosa Maria can be described as a perfect balance of flavors. The prosciutto adds a salty and smoky taste, while the Fontina cheese brings a rich and creamy texture to the dish. The chicken breasts are tender and juicy, providing a satisfying bite.

The garlic and mushroom sauce enhances the overall taste of the dish, giving it a savory and aromatic profile. One bite of Pollo Rosa Maria will transport you to Italy, leaving you craving for more.

Why You’ll Love This Dish:

There are several reasons why you’ll fall in love with Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria. Firstly, it is a dish that is loaded with flavors, making it a delight for your taste buds. Secondly, it is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on various occasions, whether it’s a family dinner or a special celebration. 

Additionally, Pollo Rosa Maria is easy to make at home, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. The combination of ingredients creates a harmonious taste that will leave everyone asking for the recipe.

Ingredients:


To prepare Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria, you will need the following ingredients:

  • Prosciutto: This Italian dry-cured ham adds a rich and salty flavor to Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria. The thin slices of prosciutto wrap around the butterflied chicken breasts, providing a savory and slightly smoky taste to the dish.
  • Fontina Cheese: Fontina cheese, known for its creamy texture and nutty flavor, is used to enhance the richness of the dish. When melted, it contributes a luscious creaminess that complements the other ingredients.
  •  Butter: The heavenly clarified butter is employed for cooking the butterflied chicken breasts, ensuring a perfect sear and imparting a deliciously buttery taste to the dish. Its clarified form allows for a higher smoke point and a cleaner, more concentrated butter flavor.
  • Chicken Breasts: The chicken breasts, expertly butterflied, serve as the main protein in this dish. The butterflying technique allows for even cooking and a quicker preparation time, ensuring the chicken remains tender and flavorful.
  • White Pepper: White pepper adds a subtle and refined heat to the dish without overpowering the other flavors. Its use in Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria contributes a mild spiciness that complements the richness of the cheese and prosciutto.
  • Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil brings a burst of freshness and herbaceous aroma to the recipe. Its addition enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a touch of brightness to the dish.
  • Unsalted Butter: Luxurious unsalted butter is utilized for sautéing the garlic, onion, and mushrooms. Its creamy richness imparts a depth of flavor to the vegetables and creates a savory foundation for the sauce.
  • Garlic and Onion: These aromatic ingredients are sautéed in butter to form the flavorful base of the sauce. The garlic provides a pungent kick, while the sweetly diced onion adds a subtle sweetness, creating a well-balanced and aromatic foundation for the dish.
  • Dry White Wine: The crisp dry white wine deglazes the pan and contributes a layer of acidity and brightness to the sauce. It helps enhance the overall flavor complexity, adding depth and balance to the dish.
  • Salt: Used in moderation, exquisite salt heightens the flavors of the other ingredients and brings balance to the dish. It plays a crucial role in enhancing the savory notes without overshadowing the delicate nuances of the chicken, cheese, and prosciutto.
  • Cremini Mushrooms: Sliced cremini mushrooms add an earthy and meaty quality to the dish. When sautéed in butter, they release their rich flavors, contributing depth and umami to the overall flavor profile.
  • Lemons: The juice of two lemons brightens up the dish, providing a citrusy zing that cuts through the richness of the cheese and butter. It adds a refreshing element, balancing the savory and creamy components of Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria.
Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria Copycat Recipe

Step by Step Directions:

Now that we have covered the ingredients, let’s move on to the step-by-step directions on how to make Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria:

Step 1: Preparing the chicken breasts


– Lay out the butterflied chicken breasts on a clean surface.
– Season both sides of each breast with white pepper.
– Place a slice of prosciutto and a spoonful of Fontina cheese on each breast.
– Roll up the chicken breasts and secure them with toothpicks.

Step 2: Sautéing the chicken breasts


– In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
– Add the rolled-up chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
– Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Preparing the garlic and mushroom sauce


– In the same skillet, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
– Add the garlic cloves and diced onion to the skillet and sauté until fragrant.
– Add the sliced cremini mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are tender and golden brown.
– Pour in the dry white wine and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
– Squeeze the juice of 2 lemons into the skillet and stir to combine.

Step 4: Finishing the dish


– Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure they are coated with the garlic and mushroom sauce.
– Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the chicken breasts.
– Reduce the heat to low and let the dish simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
– Remove the toothpicks from the chicken breasts before serving.

Tips On Making Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria:

To ensure that your Pollo Rosa Maria turns out perfect every time, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Use high-quality ingredients, especially the prosciutto and Fontina cheese, as they greatly contribute to the overall flavor of the dish.
2. Make sure to butterfly the chicken breasts properly to create enough space for the prosciutto and cheese filling.
3. Season the chicken breasts with white pepper before adding the filling to enhance the taste.
4. When sautéing the chicken breasts, make sure the skillet is hot enough to achieve a nice golden brown crust.
5. Allow the garlic and mushroom sauce to simmer for a few minutes to develop its flavors fully.
6. Before serving, sprinkle fresh basil over the chicken breasts to add a fragrant touch.

How to make Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria Recipe

Nutrition Information:

Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria is not only delicious but also provides nutritional benefits. Here is the approximate nutrition information for one serving:

– Calories: 270-
– Total Fat: 37g
– Saturated Fat: 16g
– Cholesterol: 167mg
– Sodium: 463mg
– Total Carbohydrate: 6g
– Dietary Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 2g
– Protein: 35g

It is worth noting that these values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How Do You Store This Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria?

If you have any leftovers of Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria, you can store them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dish or warm it up on the stovetop until heated through. It is recommended to consume the leftovers within the specified time frame to ensure the best taste and quality.

What other substitute can you use in Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria Recipe?

If you are unable to find certain ingredients for Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria or want to explore different flavor options, here are some substitutes you can consider:

1. Prosciutto: If prosciutto is not available, you can substitute it with thinly sliced ham or bacon. However, keep in mind that the taste might differ slightly.
2. Fontina cheese: Mozzarella or provolone cheese can be used as alternatives for Fontina cheese. Both cheeses have a mild flavor and a good melting capability, making them suitable substitutes.
3. Clarified butter: Regular unsalted butter can be used in place of clarified butter. However, clarified butter is preferred as it has a higher smoke point, making it ideal for sautéing.
4. Cremini mushrooms: If cremini mushrooms are not accessible, white button mushrooms or portobello mushrooms can be used as substitutes. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as different mushrooms may have varying cooking times.
5. Dry white wine: If you prefer to cook without alcohol, you can replace the white wine with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth. This will still provide a flavorful base for the sauce.

How to make Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria Recipe

Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria Recipe

Kimberly Booker RD
If you are a fan of American cuisine, then you must have heard of Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria. This mouthwatering dish is a true delight for your taste buds. With its combination of flavors and rich ingredients, it has become a favorite among many food enthusiasts.
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 270 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 8 slices prosciutto
  • 1 cup sublime Fontina cheese
  • 1 cup clarified butter
  • 8 chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 cup fresh basil chopped
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 aromatic garlic cloves
  • 1 diced onion
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 2 dashes of salt
  • 16 ounces sliced cremini mushrooms
  • Juice of 2 lemons

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Breasts

  • Start by laying out the butterflied chicken breasts on a clean surface. Ensure they are evenly spread out for easy seasoning. Season both sides of each chicken breast with white pepper, adding a delightful kick to the dish. Place a slice of prosciutto and a spoonful of Fontina cheese on each chicken breast. This combination will contribute rich and savory flavors to the dish. Roll up the chicken breasts, securing them with toothpicks to maintain their shape during cooking. This step is crucial for the presentation and ensures the stuffing stays intact.

Step 2: Sautéing the Chicken Breasts

  • In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. This will serve as the flavorful base for cooking the chicken. Add the rolled-up chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until they achieve a golden brown exterior. This searing process locks in the juices, enhancing the overall taste. Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the skillet and set them aside, allowing for the next steps in the cooking process.

Step 3: Preparing the Garlic and Mushroom Sauce

  • In the same skillet, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, creating a luscious base for the sauce. Add garlic cloves and diced onion to the skillet, sautéing until they become fragrant. This step adds aromatic layers to the dish. Introduce sliced cremini mushrooms to the skillet, cooking them until tender and golden brown. This brings a savory and earthy dimension to the sauce. Pour in dry white wine, letting it simmer for a couple of minutes. The wine contributes depth and complexity to the sauce. Squeeze the juice of 2 lemons into the skillet, stirring to combine. The citrusy brightness will balance the richness of the dish.

Step 4: Finishing the Dish

  • Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, ensuring they are well-coated with the flavorful garlic and mushroom sauce. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the chicken breasts, adding a burst of freshness to the dish. Reduce the heat to low and let the dish simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a cohesive taste profile. Before serving, remember to remove the toothpicks from the chicken breasts to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.

Notes

  • Use high-quality ingredients, especially the prosciutto and Fontina cheese, as they greatly contribute to the overall flavor of the dish.
  • Make sure to butterfly the chicken breasts properly to create enough space for the prosciutto and cheese filling.
  • Season the chicken breasts with white pepper before adding the filling to enhance the taste.
  • When sautéing the chicken breasts, make sure the skillet is hot enough to achieve a nice golden brown crust.
  • Allow the garlic and mushroom sauce to simmer for a few minutes to develop its flavors fully.
  • Before serving, sprinkle fresh basil over the chicken breasts to add a fragrant touch.

Nutrition

Calories: 270kcal
Keyword Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria Recipe
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A1: While the recipe calls for chicken breasts, you can certainly use chicken thighs if you prefer. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary, and you may need to adjust it accordingly.

Q2: Can I prepare Pollo Rosa Maria ahead of time?

A2: Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time by following the recipe up to the sautéing of the chicken breasts. Once cooked, you can refrigerate them. When ready to serve, prepare the garlic and mushroom sauce, reheat the chicken breasts, and pour the sauce over them.

Q3: Can I freeze Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria?

A3: It is not recommended to freeze Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria as the texture of the chicken may change upon thawing and reheating.

Q4: What can I serve with Pollo Rosa Maria?

A4: Pollo Rosa Maria pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Q5: Can I make a vegetarian version of Pollo Rosa Maria?

A5: Yes, you can create a vegetarian version of Pollo Rosa Maria by replacing the chicken with eggplant or tofu. Simply follow the same steps, substituting the meat with the vegetarian alternative, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q6: Can I make Pollo Rosa Maria using a grill instead of a skillet?

A6: While the traditional method involves sautéing the chicken in a skillet, you can certainly grill the chicken breasts for a different flavor profile. Preheat your grill, brush the chicken breasts with olive oil, and cook them over medium heat until done. Make sure to prepare the garlic and mushroom sauce separately.

Conclusion:

Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria is an exquisite Italian dish that is sure to impress any food lover. With its combination of flavors and rich ingredients, it is a recipe worth trying at home. The prosciutto and Fontina cheese filling, along with the garlic and mushroom sauce, create a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to Italy. 

Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply want to treat yourself, Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria is a perfect choice. So gather the ingredients, follow the step-by-step directions, and enjoy the taste of Italy in your own kitchen. Buon appetito!

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