Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a quick and comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a velvety basil-infused cream sauce, topped with melted gooey mozzarella cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe balances rich creamy textures with fresh herbal brightness, making it a family-friendly meal that pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or vegetables.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 2 boneless chicken breasts, evenly sized
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Cheese Topping

  • 1 cup shredded or sliced fresh mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside to rest.
  2. Make the basil cream sauce: Reduce heat to medium in the same skillet. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well and scraping browned bits from the pan. Let the sauce simmer gently until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add basil and cheese: Stir in chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the cheese to melt slightly into the sauce, releasing herbaceous and umami flavors.
  4. Combine chicken and mozzarella: Return chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon sauce over them evenly. Top each breast with shredded or sliced mozzarella. Simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly and golden.
  5. Serve and garnish: Once cheese has melted and chicken is heated through, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Pat the chicken dry before cooking to get a better sear and lock in juices.
  • Use fresh basil for vibrant flavor and color; dried basil will not produce the same effect.
  • Simmer the sauce gently to avoid curdling the cream; do not allow it to boil.
  • Let the cooked chicken rest to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Shred fresh mozzarella if using slices for more even melting and coverage.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 140 mg

Keywords: mozzarella chicken, basil cream sauce, creamy chicken, easy dinner, quick chicken recipe, family-friendly meal, Italian chicken, basil chicken