Styled flat lay of Carrabba’s Inspired Chicken Bryan served with mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus, garnished with fresh basil and lemon halves. Overlay text reads “August 7, 2025 — Carrabba’s Inspired Chicken Bryan & Tommy’s Margarita.”

This was one of Kate’s favorite meals growing up. Any time she went to Carrabba’s, she ordered the Chicken Bryan with mashed potatoes and broccoli (every time!). It’s been fun to recreate it at home with our own twist. We’re swapping in roasted asparagus for a fresh, slightly crisp update, and of course keeping the goat cheese, garlic butter, and lemon wine sauce that make this dish such a favorite.

We’re also kicking off a new season of cocktails with a “Spirit of the Month,” starting with tequila. This week’s drink is a Tommy’s Margarita, a simple, clean take on the classic made with just tequila, lime juice, and agave. It’s one of our go-tos for a reason, and we know you’ll love it too.

Here’s to nostalgic favorites, elevated just enough.

Kevin & Kate

Tommy's Margarita

Carrabba's Inspired Chicken Bryan

Your Weekly Essentials

Grocery List →

Everything you’ll need to make this meal — plus a few pantry staples you probably already have.

Table Talk ➝

We’re talking childhood favorites, comfort food classics, and the meals that made us who we are.

This Week's Playlist ➝

We’re putting on Pink Martini—playful, eclectic, and effortlessly chic. Their globe-trotting sound sets the perfect vibe for a joyful night in the kitchen.

notes from the kitchen

Just a few kitchen tips to make the most of this week's ingredients and flavors.

1. Stovetop or Instant Pot?

You can cook your potatoes either on the stovetop or in the Instant Pot. We love the Instant Pot method because it lets us set it and forget it while we prep the rest of dinner. Here’s the one we use.

2. Tools for Mashing

For mashing, we used to use our KitchenAid mixer, but lately we’ve switched to this OXO hand masher, which gives us creamier, smoother mashed potatoes without overworking them. You can also use a classic masher or even a fork in a pinch.

3. Don’t Love Goat Cheese?

No problem. While goat cheese gives this dish its signature tang, you can absolutely substitute with something milder or more spreadable. Try Boursin cheese, whipped cream cheese, or even a herbed ricotta.

4. Not an Asparagus Fan?

While we’re serving this dish with roasted asparagus, it’s totally flexible. Broccoli is the traditional pairing (and what Kate grew up eating with it!), but feel free to go with what you love—Brussels sprouts, green beans, carrots, or even sautéed zucchini.

5. Top It Off Your Way

Fresh basil adds a beautiful pop of color and brightness on top, but feel free to swap in any fresh herbs you have on hand—parsley, chives, or even tarragon would be lovely.

6. Garlic Butter Sauce Tips

This sauce comes together quickly, but it can break if overheated. As soon as the butter is fully melted and the sauce begins to thicken slightly, pull it off the heat. If it starts to separate, a splash of warm water and vigorous whisking can help bring it back together.

7. Optional Onion Boost

We sometimes add a bit of grated or finely chopped onion into the garlic butter sauce for an extra savory layer. Totally optional, but worth trying if you love a bolder flavor.

Heads up: We may earn a small commission on products we’ve linked here. We only recommend the real-deal favorites from our kitchen.

BACK TO ALL MENUES

we hope you enjoy this week. and as always,

Keep the Plates Full and the Spark Alive

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