Benny blanco's 'company chicken': a beloved recipe tested & tweaked

From music producer to home cook

Benny Blanco, the celebrated music producer behind hits with Ed Sheeran, Justin Bieber, and Rihanna, is proving his talents extend beyond the studio. His debut cookbook, Open Wide, co-authored with Jess Damuck, is brimming with approachable and delightful recipes. One standout – Dave’s Company Chicken and Company Noodles – is a particular favorite of frequent collaborator Dave Burd (Lil Dicky), who reportedly has his mom recreate it whenever she visits Los Angeles. We put this viral TikTok sensation to the test in the BHG Test Kitchen to see if the hype was justified.

The allure of dave's company chicken

The dish’s name hints at its comforting nature: a meal perfect for sharing with loved ones. Burd’s anecdote about his mom’s version instantly evokes a sense of warmth and nostalgia. The recipe promises a relatively simple yet elegant dish, appealing to both weeknight dinners and more special occasions. The combination of creamy pasta, breaded chicken, and fresh herbs seemed irresistible, prompting us to dive in and recreate the magic.

How to make benny blanco's company chicken: the recipe

The recipe itself is surprisingly straightforward. First, the chicken breasts are dipped in a tangy sour cream mixture, coated in breadcrumbs, and baked. Simultaneously, a luscious cream sauce is prepared with heavy cream, butter, Parmesan, and fresh herbs. Finally, angel hair pasta is cooked and tossed with the creamy sauce, ready to be paired with the golden-brown chicken. It's a process that appears manageable for even novice cooks.

Our test kitchen experience: what we learned

While the recipe delivers on its promise of a flavorful meal, our testing revealed a few areas for improvement. Angel hair pasta cooks incredibly quickly, so timing is crucial. We also found that brushing the baking sheet with melted butter, as the recipe suggests, resulted in some sticking. Lining the sheet with foil proved a more effective solution. The most significant adjustment we made was regarding the breadcrumbs—more are needed than the initial ¼ cup calls for.

Tips for achieving chicken perfection

• Even Thickness: Pound chicken breasts to ensure even cooking.
• Breadcrumb Boost: Start with at least ¾ cup breadcrumbs and add more as needed.
• Panko Power: Consider using panko breadcrumbs for a crispier texture, as the sour cream batter softens regular breadcrumbs.
• Broiler Boost: A quick broil at the end can help achieve a more golden-brown crust.

Refining the sauce and pasta for maximum flavor

The creamy sauce, while delicious, could benefit from a touch more seasoning. We also found that the pasta absorbed the sauce quickly. To combat this, consider saving some pasta water to add extra creaminess or slightly reducing the amount of pasta used (around 12 ounces would be ideal) to ensure a richer, more flavorful final dish. A sprinkle of extra salt can also elevate the overall taste.

The verdict: a worthy culinary creation

Despite a few minor tweaks, Benny Blanco’s Company Chicken is a resounding success. It's easy to see why it’s a favorite of Lil Dicky and others – the dish is comforting, relatively easy to prepare, and boasts a familiar flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of palates. With a few adjustments, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your own kitchen, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy weeknight meal.