Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The tender chicken breasts are coated in a luscious basil cream sauce that’s aromatic, slightly tangy, and creamy all at once. The melted mozzarella adds a comforting, cheesy element that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a satisfying meal, Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is guaranteed to deliver on flavor and elegance.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil (plus more for garnish)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

5. Stir in the chopped basil, lemon juice, and parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.

6. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over each chicken breast.

7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Garnish with additional fresh basil before serving. Serve the chicken with the creamy basil sauce and your choice of sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4. It requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick yet impressive dish to prepare.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

• Use a Different Cheese: If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to swap the mozzarella with provolone, fontina, or even goat cheese for a different twist.

• Make it Low-Carb: For a lower-carb version, serve the chicken with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta or bread.

Storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken and sauce gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Cook the chicken fresh when you’re ready to assemble and bake the dish.

3. Can I use fresh basil in the sauce?

Yes, fresh basil is perfect in this dish and adds a burst of aromatic flavor. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but fresh is always better for the best flavor.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

While the chicken and sauce can be frozen, the cheese may change texture once thawed. It’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately, then bake once reheated.

5. What should I serve with Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad. For a lower-carb option, serve it with roasted vegetables or zucchini noodles.

6. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using a dairy-free cream substitute (such as coconut cream) and dairy-free cheese. Be sure to check the chicken broth to ensure it’s dairy-free as well.

7. Can I use a different type of cream instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but the sauce won’t be as thick or rich as with heavy cream.

8. How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry?

To prevent the chicken from drying out, make sure not to overcook it in the skillet. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) and no more.

9. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in a slow cooker with the sauce. Add the chicken, garlic, broth, cream, basil, and seasonings, and cook on low for 4-5 hours. Once the chicken is cooked through, top with cheese and let it melt in the slow cooker before serving.

10. Can I add more garlic to the sauce?

Yes, if you love garlic, feel free to add more to the sauce for a stronger flavor. You can sauté extra garlic with the butter before adding the cream and broth.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and herby flavors that come together to create an unforgettable dish. The juicy chicken, aromatic basil sauce, and melted mozzarella make every bite a delight. Whether you’re serving it for a special dinner or a weeknight treat, this dish will impress with its richness and comforting flavors.