Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish, ensuring faster cooking. If you prefer dark meat, thighs work too—just adjust the cooking time as they take a bit longer.

Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use half-and-half or a non-dairy substitute like coconut cream. Just be aware that the flavor might vary a little.

Parmesan Cheese: It adds depth and a salty flavor. Grated cheese works best for melting. If you don’t have it, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.

Fresh Basil: Fresh basil brings brightness to the dish. If it’s not in season, dried basil can be used, but use about a third of the amount since it’s more concentrated.

Garlic: Minced garlic flavors the sauce beautifully. If fresh garlic isn’t available, you can use garlic powder, but the taste won’t be as vibrant. Use about 1/8 teaspoon for every clove.

How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly?

Cooking chicken can be tricky. To get it just right, start with a few key steps:

• Make sure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking; this helps it cook evenly.
• Season generously with salt and pepper—flavor is key!
• Cook on medium-high heat to get a nice golden color. This typically takes 5-7 minutes per side.
• Use a meat thermometer! Chicken is safe to eat at 165°F (74°C) and will be juicy if you don’t overcook it.

Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 6 slices fresh mozzarella cheese

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious dish will take you about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner while still impressing everyone at the table!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps them sear nicely. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.

2. Cook the Chicken:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). When done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

3. Make the Sauce:

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant—be careful not to let it burn!

4. Add Cream and Broth:

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to mix well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for a few minutes.

5. Thicken the Sauce:

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the pan.

6. Add Basil:

Add the freshly chopped basil to the sauce and stir well, mixing in all that lovely flavor.

7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some of that creamy sauce over the chicken to keep it nice and flavorful.

8. Melt the Mozzarella:

Place two slices of mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast, covering them well. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt perfectly.

9. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the mozzarella is beautifully melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the chicken topped with the creamy basil sauce and extra cheese if you like! Pair it with your favorite sides, such as steamed veggies or pasta, and enjoy your delicious meal!

FAQ for Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw chicken is by leaving it in the refrigerator overnight. For quick thawing, place the sealed chicken in cold water for about 1-2 hours, changing the water every 30 minutes.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy.

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance—just store each element separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, heat the sauce gently and add the chicken to warm it through before topping it with mozzarella.

What Can I Serve with This Dish?

This chicken pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, which soak up the creamy sauce. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a lighter option.