This Easy Mozzarella Chicken is a winner! Juicy chicken breasts swim in a creamy basil sauce, topped with melted mozzarella. It’s like a hug on a plate!
Honestly, who can resist that gooey cheese? I usually pair it with pasta or rice for a meal that even the kids love. Quick and oh-so-tasty—perfect for any night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish lean. If you prefer more flavor, chicken thighs are a great alternative. They stay juicy and tender while cooking.
Heavy Cream: This gives a rich, creamy texture to the sauce. If you want a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds depth to the sauce. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano works well. You can also use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil brings an amazing aroma. If you can’t find it, dried basil works too, but use about one-third of the amount as it’s more concentrated. Dried oregano can be a tasty substitute too!
Olive Oil: Olive oil is perfect for sautéing. You could easily swap it with avocado oil for a high-heat cooking alternative.
How Do I Achieve a Creamy Sauce Without Curdling?
Making a creamy sauce requires careful temperature control. Here’s how to avoid curdling:
- Use medium heat for cooking to prevent the sauce from boiling rapidly.
- Gradually add the heavy cream to the sautéed garlic and broth, stirring constantly.
- Let the sauce simmer gently after adding the cream and cheese, rather than boiling.
- Always remove the pan from heat right before adding cheese to melt it smoothly.
Following these tips will help you create a beautifully creamy sauce every time! Enjoy your 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 grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried basil)
- 3-4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes in total—10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight dinner but fancy enough for a special occasion. You’ll have this creamy, cheesy goodness on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds great flavor to your dish right from the start!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. This should give you a nice sear. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; garlic cooks quickly!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, which will help meld those flavors together beautifully.
5. Add Cheese and Basil:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil into the sauce. Stir well, allowing it to simmer for 3-5 minutes until it starts to thicken up nicely. Season with salt and pepper along with Italian seasoning if you’re using it. This is where the magic happens!
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some of that luscious sauce over each piece and then top each piece with a slice of mozzarella cheese. This will make everything ooey-gooey and delicious!
7. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the skillet with a lid and lower the heat. Let it cook on low for about 3-4 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly. It’s like a warm blanket of cheese over your chicken!
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve the chicken breasts right away, smothered in that creamy basil sauce. It pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or steamed veggies for a complete meal. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and herbaceous dish!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute as they stay juicy and flavorful. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless to keep the cooking time similar to chicken breasts.
Can I Make This Recipe With Low-Fat Dairy Options?
Yes, you can use low-fat or reduced-fat cream and mozzarella. However, keep in mind that the sauce might be slightly less creamy and rich, so consider adjusting the cooking time to help it thicken properly.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to help rehydrate the sauce if needed.
Is This Dish Suitable for Freezing?
You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together! Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It’s best enjoyed within 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
