This Easy Mozzarella Chicken is all about creamy goodness! Tender chicken breasts are coated in a rich basil sauce and topped with melty mozzarella cheese, making it cozy and comforting.
You can whip this up in no time, and it’s perfect for impressing friends or family. I love serving it with pasta or a fresh salad for a yummy meal that feels special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great here. If you’re looking for something different, try using chicken thighs for extra juiciness or even turkey cutlets if you want to switch it up.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a delicious creaminess. If you’re watching your fat intake, consider using half-and-half or a low-fat milk option, but keep in mind the sauce may not be as rich. Coconut cream is a dairy-free alternative!
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil enhances the flavor beautifully. If you can’t find it, dried basil works too. Just use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is the star of the dish, but you can mix it up with provolone or even a sharp cheddar for a twist. The Parmesan adds a nice salty touch—feel free to leave it out or substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Fully Cooked but Not Dry?
Cooking chicken just right is essential for a tasty dish! Here are my tips:
- Start with even-sized pieces of chicken. If they’re thick, consider flattening them slightly with a meat mallet for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Avoid overcooking by removing the chicken from the skillet as soon as it’s done. Remember, it will continue to cook a bit while resting!
By following these steps, you can achieve tender and juicy chicken every time. Happy cooking!
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
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried basil)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal will take around 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick yet satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
First things first! Take your chicken breasts and season them well with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is super important to add flavor right from the start.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, gently place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook each side for about 5-6 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Once done, take them out of the skillet and set aside for now.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add your minced garlic. Allow it to sauté for around 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and remember to scrape the bottom of the pan to get all those tasty browned bits. This is where the flavor comes from! Stir it all together and let it simmer gently.
5. Add Basil and Parmesan:
Add in the chopped fresh basil and the grated Parmesan cheese. Let this simmer for about 3-5 minutes. You’ll want the sauce to thicken slightly—this will ensure it coats the chicken beautifully.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Now, return the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet. Spoon some of that delicious sauce over each piece, and then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top. It’s starting to look heavenly!
7. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low, letting it cook for 2-3 minutes. This allows the mozzarella cheese to melt beautifully and become bubbly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce is ready! Serve it hot, drizzling extra sauce over the top. It pairs perfectly with pasta, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and the delicious flavors of this creamy dish!
FAQ About Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s important to thaw them fully before cooking to ensure even cooking. Thawing can be done overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Once thawed, pat them dry before seasoning and cooking.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with a Lighter Option?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce won’t be as rich. To maintain creaminess, consider adding a little cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with water) to thicken up the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
What Should I Serve This Dish With?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even a side of steamed vegetables. For a low-carb option, serve it over zucchini noodles or alongside a fresh salad. Enjoy!
