This Easy Mozzarella Chicken features juicy chicken breasts smothered in a dreamy creamy basil sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Yum!
It’s like a hug on a plate! I love serving it over pasta or rice. Just add a side salad, and dinner is ready—so simple, yet so hearty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here, but you can use chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture. They may need a few extra minutes to cook through.
Heavy Cream: This gives a rich texture to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream, but expect a slightly different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for melting. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can work as substitutes. You could even use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option!
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a wonderful aroma. If you don’t have fresh, a teaspoon of dried basil can work in a pinch. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use less.
Fresh Mozzarella: While fresh mozzarella is delicious, you could use shredded mozzarella for convenience. Just look for a brand that melts well.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Juicy?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is crucial for this dish. Follow these tips for juicy results:
- Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and black pepper generously to enhance the flavor.
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps create a nice sear.
- Cook on medium-high heat, don’t overcrowd the pan—this allows for proper browning.
- Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure doneness.
Remember, letting the chicken rest after cooking will help keep it juicy, as it allows the juices to redistribute! Enjoy your delicious Easy Mozzarella Chicken!
Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
For Topping:
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take you about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken and around 15-20 minutes making the creamy basil sauce and finishing the dish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This step builds flavor right from the start.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and let them sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Make sure to remove them from the skillet and set aside once done.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
With the skillet still hot, lower the heat to medium, and add the minced garlic. Sauté for around 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic—it can get bitter if overcooked!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine everything. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to come together!
5. Add Cheese and Basil:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, making it nice and creamy. Next, add the chopped fresh basil, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
6. Return the Chicken to the Skillet:
Put the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some creamy sauce over the top to keep them moist and flavorful.
7. Top with Mozzarella:
Place a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese on each chicken breast. This will create that gooey, delicious topping we all love!
8. Final Cook:
Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the mozzarella has melted beautifully and the chicken is heated through.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like a little spice, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the top before serving. Enjoy your mozzarella chicken smothered in creamy basil sauce over your favorite pasta, rice, or with some steamed vegetables. Dig in!
This recipe delivers tender chicken in a luscious, creamy sauce with the fragrant taste of basil, making it a delightful meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
FAQ for Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to the dish. Just ensure they’re cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), which might take a few extra minutes compared to chicken breasts.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, though your sauce will be a bit less creamy. For a dairy-free substitute, try coconut cream or cashew cream, which will add a unique flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of cream or broth to freshen up the sauce while reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time! Cook everything, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat gently and melt the mozzarella on top.
