Creamy Mozzarella Chicken
Why Make This Recipe
Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a delicious and comforting dish that brings everyone together. It combines tender chicken with a rich and creamy sauce, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. If you’re looking for an easy yet impressive meal, this recipe will not disappoint. The fresh basil adds a lovely aroma, while the melted mozzarella provides a gooey texture that everyone loves.
How to Make Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1½ teaspoons dried basil (or ¼ cup chopped fresh basil)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
Directions
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this helps them brown better. Then season both sides generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken and sear until golden brown, about 5–6 minutes per side. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t fully cooked through yet; it’ll finish later in the sauce. Set the chicken aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic for the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add the butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic. Stir it gently for about a minute, just until fragrant—this part always makes the kitchen smell amazing.
Step 3: Build the Basil Cream Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer, scraping up any golden bits from the pan (they’re flavor gold!). Stir in the heavy cream and let it warm through. Next, sprinkle in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Add the basil—fresh if you’ve got it, but dried works perfectly too.
Step 4: Finish with Chicken and Simmer
Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, turning to coat them in the sauce. Let everything simmer together on low heat for about 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the chicken hot, spooning generous amounts of basil cream sauce over the top. We love this with angel hair pasta or mashed potatoes to soak up every last bit.
How to Serve Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
You can serve this dish family-style by placing the chicken on a large platter and pouring the sauce over it. Consider pairing it with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It also goes well with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious sauce.
How to Store Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
To store leftovers, place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for 3–4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Tips to Make Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning for better browning.
- If you want a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- You can use other cheeses, like provolone or cheddar, if you prefer.
- To make it lighter, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also try different herbs such as thyme or oregano if basil isn’t available.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work well in this recipe. Just ensure they are cooked through.
2. Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, just make sure your chicken broth and any additional ingredients are gluten-free.
3. How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish to make this dish.
4. Can I use dairy-free cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! There are many dairy-free cheese options available that melt well.
5. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A delicious and comforting dish featuring tender chicken in a rich and creamy basil sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1½ teaspoons dried basil (or ¼ cup chopped fresh basil)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden brown, about 5–6 minutes per side. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any bits from the pan. Stir in heavy cream and allow to warm. Add Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Mix in basil.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, turning to coat in the sauce. Let simmer on low heat for 10–12 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens.
- Serve hot, spooning basil cream sauce over the chicken, ideal with pasta or mashed potatoes.
Notes
Pat the chicken dry for better browning. Add red pepper flakes for spice, or use other cheeses for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
