Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that’s creamy, comforting, and packed with fresh flavors, this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is about to become your new favorite dinner go-to. This recipe blends tender chicken breasts with melted mozzarella and a luscious basil-infused cream sauce that’s both elegant and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this dish delivers big on taste without demanding a ton of time or complicated ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Yet Sophisticated: Combines everyday ingredients into a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss.
• Rich Creamy Sauce: The basil cream sauce adds depth and freshness that elevates the juicy chicken.
• Quick Dinner Fix: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
• Family Friendly: Mild flavors and creamy textures please both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Easily swap ingredients or adjust flavors to suit your personal taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are a handful of quality ingredients that come together seamlessly to build rich flavor, juicy texture, and that vibrant color we all love in a comforting chicken dinner.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for quick cooking and tender bites.
• Mozzarella cheese: Fresh or shredded, it melts beautifully, creating a gooey topping.
• Fresh basil: Adds a bright, herby aroma that balances the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Heavy cream: The base for the silky sauce that coats every delicious bite.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves for that signature savory punch.
• Olive oil or butter: For sautéing chicken until golden and flavorful.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth to the cream sauce.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
• Optional: Cherry tomatoes: For a pop of color and subtle sweetness.

Variations for Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

This recipe is highly versatile, making it easy to customize based on what’s in your kitchen or dietary preferences—experimenting can be just as much fun as enjoying the final dish!

• Low-carb swap: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta or bread.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the cream sauce for some heat.
• Dairy-free option: Use coconut cream and vegan cheese alternatives for a creamy texture without the dairy.
• Herb mix: Experiment with thyme, oregano, or parsley alongside basil for a more layered herb flavor.
• Added veggies: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus for extra nutrition and texture.

How to Make Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side, then set aside to rest.

Step 2: Make the Basil Cream Sauce

In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic, cooking until fragrant but not browned. Pour in heavy cream, stirring frequently. Add freshly chopped basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken as it simmers gently.

Step 3: Combine and Melt Mozzarella

Return the chicken to the pan and spoon the basil cream sauce over each piece. Top with slices or shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover the pan and cook for a few minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles enticingly.

Step 4: Final Touches

Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. For a colorful contrast, sprinkle halved cherry tomatoes over the top or garnish with extra fresh basil leaves before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

• Even cooking: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
• Fresh basil matters: Use fresh basil instead of dried for vibrant taste and color.
• Avoid overcooking: Remove the chicken as soon as it’s cooked to keep it juicy and tender.
• Sauce consistency: Let the cream sauce simmer slowly to thicken without curdling.
• Mozzarella choice: Fresh mozzarella provides creamier melt while shredded works well for convenience.

How to Serve Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Garnishes

A few fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley add a fresh, herby finish that brightens the dish visually and in flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve this dish alongside buttery garlic mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or fluffy rice to soak up the luscious basil cream sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a beautiful presentation, place the chicken on a bed of spinach or pasta, drizzle extra sauce artistically, and top with colorful cherry tomato halves. Serve it in shallow bowls to keep the sauce pooled and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but for best results, freeze the chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers to preserve texture when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a covered pan on low heat or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally, to prevent curdling or drying out the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor, but adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked through.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, naturally gluten-free as long as you avoid adding any flour or gluten-containing thickeners to the sauce.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prep the sauce and chicken separately ahead of time, then combine and melt the mozzarella just before serving for the freshest results.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk can be used as alternatives, but keep in mind the sauce consistency and flavor will vary slightly.

How do I keep the sauce from splitting?

Cook the sauce gently over low to medium heat and avoid boiling it to prevent the cream from curdling or separating.

Final Thoughts

This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce recipe is a delightful dinner that balances simplicity and indulgence perfectly. Once you try it, you’ll find it hard to go back to plain chicken dinners. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to add a cozy dish to your rotation, this one delivers big on flavor and comfort with minimal effort. Give it a go—you might just find your new favorite meal!

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