This Easy Mozzarella Chicken is a real treat! It features juicy chicken breasts smothered in a creamy basil sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Yum!
Honestly, who doesn’t love cheese? I make this dish when I want something comforting yet quick. Serve it with pasta or crusty bread, and you’re in for a delightful meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe, but you can also use thighs for more flavor and tenderness. If you’re in a hurry, thinly sliced chicken cutlets will cook even faster.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk. This will change the flavor slightly, but it keeps the creaminess. Just remember to adjust cooking time as lighter creams may thicken differently.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a bright flavor, but if you can’t find it, dried basil works too. Use about 2 teaspoons of dried basil for every 1/2 cup of fresh. Meyer’s lemon zest can also add a fresh twist!
Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is delightful, but if you want a bit more flavor, provolone or a mix of mozzarella and Monterey Jack can work well. If you’re really craving cheese, don’t hesitate to sprinkle more on top!
How Do I Make the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
The sauce is what makes this dish special, so here are some tips to nail it down:
- After cooking the garlic, don’t let it brown. It should be fragrant but still pale. If it burns, it can make the sauce taste bitter.
- Stir the heavy cream and chicken broth together slowly to avoid lumps. Bring it to a gentle simmer rather than a hard boil to keep the cream smooth.
- Adding basil towards the end of the cooking will keep its vibrant flavor and bright green color. Over-cooking can dull those great herb notes.
- If the sauce seems too thick, whisk in a splash of extra chicken broth or a bit of water until you reach your desired consistency.
Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped (or 2 tbsp dried basil)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or slices)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything. It’s a quick and delightful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely! Then, season both sides generously with salt and pepper for great flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts carefully. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer if you have one—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). When cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic & Cream Base:
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, being careful not to let it brown. Now, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir everything together, bringing it to a gentle simmer to combine the flavors.
4. Add Basil and Thicken the Sauce:
Add the chopped fresh basil leaves (or dried basil) and Parmesan cheese if you’re using it. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will enhance the creamy texture and add delicious flavor!
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy basil sauce over the chicken, ensuring they’re well-coated.
6. Melt the Cheese:
Top each chicken breast with your shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes. The steam will help melt the cheese beautifully!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese is melted and the sauce is nice and warm, remove the skillet from heat. Serve your delicious mozzarella chicken topped with creamy basil sauce alongside your favorite sides like pasta, rice, or some delicious crusty bread. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s important to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. You might want to add a splash of cream to freshen up the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and keep them separate in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat both gently and combine them with the cheese just before serving for the best results!
