Introduction
There’s something about melted mozzarella and fragrant basil that brings instant comfort to the kitchen. I first created this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce on a quiet weekend, craving something creamy, cheesy, and fresh. It’s now one of my absolute favorite skillet meals. The juicy chicken pairs perfectly with a velvety cream sauce, while fresh basil adds brightness and depth. Every bite feels like a little Italian escape—without ever leaving home.
A Short Story About the Recipe
It all started when I had a few leftover mozzarella slices in the fridge, some fresh basil from my windowsill herb pot, and chicken breasts thawing on the counter. I didn’t want to bake anything or get too elaborate. So, I seared the chicken, whisked up a quick basil-infused cream sauce, and melted the mozzarella right on top. What was supposed to be a simple dinner turned into something the whole family asked for again—and again. Since then, it’s been one of those recipes I rely on when I want a dish that’s rich but not heavy, flavorful but still quick to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Versatile
Serve this dish over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even with crusty bread—it complements almost anything. You can also add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the sauce for variety.
Budget-friendly
With basic pantry staples like cream, mozzarella, and chicken, this meal keeps costs low while delivering a gourmet experience. It’s fancy without being expensive.
Ingredients for the Recipe
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Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
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Fresh mozzarella (sliced)
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Fresh basil leaves (chopped)
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Garlic (minced)
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Heavy cream or cooking cream
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Olive oil or butter
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Chicken broth (low sodium)
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Salt and pepper
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Optional: grated Parmesan for added depth
How to Make This Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. If the breasts are thick, slice them horizontally for quicker and more even cooking.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear each side for 4–5 minutes until golden brown. The chicken should be mostly cooked through. Transfer it to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add a small amount of oil or butter if needed. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Stir constantly to avoid burning.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes. Then, reduce the heat slightly and add the heavy cream. Stir continuously to combine everything smoothly.
Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until it starts to thicken. You can add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan if you want a stronger, deeper flavor. Stir in the chopped fresh basil and cook for 1 more minute.
Step 5: Return Chicken to the Pan
Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of each piece. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 5–6 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Step 6: Add the Mozzarella
Once the chicken is cooked, top each piece with a slice of mozzarella. Cover the skillet again and allow the cheese to melt, about 1–2 minutes. When the cheese is gooey and bubbling, the dish is ready to serve.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Garnish with a few extra basil leaves if desired. Serve the chicken with your preferred side—pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables all work beautifully. Spoon extra basil cream sauce over each serving.
Quick and Easy
This dish comes together in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. The steps are simple and require only one pan, so cleanup is minimal.
Customizable
You can add baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra texture and flavor. For a lighter option, use a plant-based cream or low-fat dairy alternative. Swap out chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer.
Perfect for Guests
The melted mozzarella and creamy basil sauce look and taste elegant, making this dish an excellent option for guests. It’s rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying—without being too heavy or difficult to prepare.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh basil gives the best flavor. If using dried basil, start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to taste. Add it during the simmering stage to release its aroma.
What type of mozzarella works best?
Fresh mozzarella slices melt beautifully and offer a creamy texture. However, shredded mozzarella can also be used if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken in advance. Store them separately and reheat gently in a pan before serving. Add the mozzarella right before serving to keep it fresh and melted.
How can I lighten the sauce?
Replace heavy cream with a light cooking cream or use a dairy-free alternative. You can also reduce the amount of cream and add a splash of milk or extra broth to keep it smooth.
Does this pair well with pasta?
Absolutely. The sauce coats pasta wonderfully. Penne, linguine, or even rice noodles work well. It’s also excellent over rice or mashed potatoes.
Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Yes. Turkey breast or firm tofu can be used as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the slices.