Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s creamy, comforting, and packed with fresh flavors, then this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce recipe is sure to become your new favorite. This easy-to-make dinner brings together tender chicken breasts, gooey mozzarella cheese, and a luscious basil-infused cream sauce that feels both elegant and effortlessly homey. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish strikes the perfect balance of rich textures and bright herbal notes, making weeknight meals something to look forward to.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and straightforward: Perfect for busy evenings, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes without sacrificing flavor.
• Irresistibly creamy: The basil cream sauce is velvety and smooth, beautifully coating each bite of chicken and mozzarella.
• Fresh and vibrant: Fresh basil adds a lively herbal kick that elevates the dish beyond typical creamy chicken recipes.
• Family-friendly: The cheesy, mild flavors are loved by kids and adults alike, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.
• Versatile serving options: It pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or fresh vegetables for customizable meal ideas.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce recipe relies on simple, accessible ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures. Each component plays a crucial role in building the smooth sauce, juicy chicken, and fresh herbal notes you’ll love.

• Boneless chicken breasts: Choose fresh, evenly sized breasts for uniform cooking and tender bites.
• Mozzarella cheese: Use shredded or sliced fresh mozzarella for that irresistible gooey melt.
• Heavy cream: This creates the silky base of the basil cream sauce, adding richness without heaviness.
• Fresh basil leaves: Chopped basil infuses the sauce with bright, peppery herbal flavor and vibrant green color.
• Garlic cloves: Minced garlic boosts the savory depth and aroma of the sauce.
• Olive oil: Ideal for sautéing the chicken to golden perfection while enhancing flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this salty, nutty cheese deepens the umami profile of the sauce.
• Chicken broth: Adds moisture and subtle savory notes to balance the creaminess.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavors at every stage.

Variations for Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

The beauty of this recipe is how easy it is to customize based on your pantry, dietary needs, or flavor preferences. Feel free to experiment with these tasty twists to make it your own.

• Swap mozzarella for provolone: Try a different mild cheese for a gooey twist with slightly different flavor nuances.
• Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the sauce for a gentle heat kick.
• Use a dairy-free cream: Substitute coconut cream or cashew cream to make this recipe suitable for lactose intolerance.
• Add veggies: Toss in sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Try chicken thighs: For more flavor and juiciness, opt for boneless, skinless thighs instead of breasts.

How to Make Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken and set aside to rest.

Step 2: Make the basil cream sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine and scraping any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly.

Step 3: Add basil and cheese

Stir in chopped fresh basil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This will melt slightly into the sauce, releasing aromatic herbs and rich umami notes that complement the creaminess perfectly.

Step 4: Combine chicken and mozzarella

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece. Top every breast with slices or shredded mozzarella, allowing it to melt as the chicken simmers for another 3-4 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Serve and garnish

Once the cheese is melted and the chicken is heated through, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and serve immediately for the best experience.

Pro Tips for Making Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

• Pat the chicken dry: Helps to get a nice sear rather than steaming in the pan, locking in juices.
• Use fresh basil: Dried herbs won’t provide the same vibrant flavor or color in the sauce.
• Simmer sauce gently: Avoid boiling after adding cream to prevent curdling and maintain a silky texture.
• Let the chicken rest: Resting after cooking keeps it juicy and tender inside.
• Shred mozzarella for even melting: If using fresh mozzarella slices, try shredding for more consistent coverage.

How to Serve Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Garnishes

Finish this dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or finely chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh aroma. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds a glossy, flavorful touch.

Side Dishes

This creamy chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides such as garlic butter pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or steamed green vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a balanced plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken over a bed of risotto or creamy polenta for a cozy presentation. For a lighter feel, place sliced chicken atop a fresh garden salad with a side of crusty bread to soak up the basil cream sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, so stir gently when reheating.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but mozzarella texture changes after freezing, so consider adding fresh mozzarella only when reheating. Freeze cooked chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce seems too thick. Low and slow reheating keeps chicken tender and preserves the cream sauce’s smooth texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and add extra moisture and flavor to the dish.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use a dairy-free mozzarella alternative to make the dish lactose-free.

How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?

Simmer the sauce on low heat after adding cream and avoid boiling. Stir frequently to keep a smooth consistency.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can make the sauce and chicken separately ahead and combine them before serving, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for the melted mozzarella texture.

What can I serve with Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce?

Garlic pasta, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad complement the creamy basil sauce beautifully and round out the meal.

Final Thoughts

This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together simple ingredients and stunning flavors in one easy dish. Perfect for anyone looking to brighten up dinner time with something creamy, cheesy, and herbaceous, it’s a must-try that will quickly find a spot in your regular recipe rotation. Grab your skillet, fresh basil, and mozzarella, and get ready to impress with every delicious bite!

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