This Easy Mozzarella Chicken is a real crowd-pleaser! Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a creamy basil sauce and topped with melty mozzarella cheese—what’s not to love?
Whenever I make this dish, my family can’t get enough! Serve it over pasta or rice for a hearty meal that feels fancy but is super simple. Trust me, it will become a family favorite! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and remain tender. If you prefer, thighs can be a great alternative for extra juiciness.
Heavy Cream: This gives a rich, creamy texture to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just note that this may change the flavor slightly.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds freshness and aromatic flavor. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil. Just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use about a third of the amount.
Mozzarella Cheese: I recommend using fresh mozzarella for the best melting quality. If you can’t find it, shredded mozzarella works well. Even a blend of mozzarella and provolone gives a nice flavor.
How Do You Make the Creamy Basil Sauce Smooth and Flavorful?
The secret to a great sauce is in how you build the flavors! After cooking the chicken, use the same skillet to capture all the tasty bits left behind.
- When you add the minced garlic, make sure to sauté it just until fragrant—too long, and it can burn.
- When adding the cream and broth, stir them in gently to mix with the garlic. Let it simmer, which helps it thicken.
- Always add chopped basil at the end to keep its vibrant flavor and color intact! Mixing in the cheeses slowly helps create that creamy consistency.
- For an extra boost, you can taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or Italian seasoning according to your preference.
How to Make 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 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra slices for topping)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients, and cooking everything will take about 15 minutes for a quick and easy meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will give your chicken a lot of flavor!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them until they’re golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on their thickness. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it’s aromatic and golden, but be careful not to burn it.
Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it’s slightly thickened.
4. Adding Cheese and Basil:
Now it’s time to add the chopped fresh basil along with the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir everything well, continuing to cook for another minute or two until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
5. Finishing the Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of that luscious sauce over them. For an even cheesier experience, place an additional slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast. Cover the skillet with a lid for about 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt beautifully.
6. Serving Up:
Once the cheese is melted, your Easy Mozzarella Chicken is ready to serve! Place the chicken on plates and spoon extra creamy basil sauce over the top. This dish goes perfectly with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy every bite of this creamy, cheesy delight!
Happy Cooking!
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 method is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw it quickly by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour. Pat dry before seasoning.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make it dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. For the cheese, consider using a dairy-free mozzarella cheese which is widely available in stores.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Should I Serve with Mozzarella Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy basil sauce. Enjoy your meal!
