This Easy Mozzarella Chicken features juicy chicken breasts smothered in a creamy basil sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. It smells amazing while cooking!
Serve this dish over pasta or with some crusty bread—trust me, you’ll want to soak up that sauce! I love how quickly it comes together for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe because they cook quickly. You can use chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat—they add a bit more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take longer.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to thicken. Coconut cream is also a great dairy-free alternative if you don’t mind the coconut flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for the flavor, but regular olive oil or other cooking oils like avocado oil work too. If you want an extra kick, use garlic-infused olive oil.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key, but if it’s not available, dried basil will do. Use about one tablespoon of dried basil for every 1/4 cup of fresh. But fresh really gives that vibrant flavor!
Fresh Mozzarella: If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, mozzarella cheese or even provolone work well, but I highly recommend sticking with fresh for that melty effect!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken just right is crucial to keeping it juicy. Here’s how:
- Use a meat thermometer. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t rush the browning. Let the chicken cook without flipping too much to achieve that golden crust.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This helps keep the juices inside, making the chicken more tender when you cut into it.
Following these tips will help your chicken turn out delicious every time! Enjoy cooking and savoring your Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce!
Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and 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 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook. So, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This helps to enhance the flavor of the chicken and ensure it’s tasty!
2. Brown the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they turn a nice golden brown and are cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to make sure they reach 165°F (75°C). After cooking, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this adds a lovely aroma to your sauce! Now, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and the optional 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Fresh Basil:
Once the sauce is simmering, add the chopped fresh basil and stir everything together, allowing it to thicken slightly for about 3-5 minutes. The basil adds a fresh, vibrant flavor!
5. Combine the Chicken and Cheese:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the delicious sauce over them. Then, place a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the mozzarella is all melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese is melted, your Easy Mozzarella Chicken is ready to serve! Plate it up with some creamy basil sauce spooned over the top. This dish is perfect served over pasta, rice, or alongside your favorite vegetable. Enjoy!
This dish yields tender, juicy chicken breasts enveloped in a rich, creamy basil sauce topped with melted mozzarella cheese for a flavorful and comforting meal. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute Chicken Breasts with Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts if you prefer darker meat. Just remember that thighs may take a little longer to cook, so check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
How Can I Make This Dish Lighter?
To lighten up the dish, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or you can substitute with a combination of plain yogurt and chicken broth for a creamy texture without all the calories. Just add it at the end and heat gently to avoid curdling.
Can I Prepare the Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can make the creamy basil sauce ahead of time! Prepare the sauce up to step 4, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to use, simply reheat the sauce and add the cooked chicken and mozzarella.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring often to ensure even heating. The chicken can also be shredded to use in wraps or salads!
