This Easy Mozzarella Chicken is a creamy, cheesy dish that makes dinner a breeze! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with melty mozzarella and a rich basil sauce.
If you’re like me, you appreciate meals that are simple yet delightful. This dish comes together quickly, and your taste buds will love every bite—perfect for a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, you can swap in boneless thighs for a richer flavor. They may take a little longer to cook, so keep that in mind!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream for dairy-free options. Just be aware that the texture will be slightly different.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key for that bright, herby flavor. If you can’t find fresh basil, dried basil works too—just use about one teaspoon instead of half a cup! The flavor is less intense, so adjust to your taste.
mozzarella Cheese: While I love shredded mozzarella for its melting quality, fresh mozzarella can create a delightful and creamy texture too! Use slices if you have it on hand. You can also try provolone or cheddar for a different cheese experience.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken so it’s juicy and not dry can be tricky. Here are some simple tricks to help you get it just right:
- Start with even thickness—pound your chicken breasts if they are uneven for even cooking.
- Cooking on medium heat helps to brown the outside without overcooking. Use a meat thermometer; chicken is done at 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This keeps it juicy!
Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black 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 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or slices, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal requires about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking, totaling about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and fully cooked. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Now, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir everything together and add the Italian seasoning and chopped basil leaves. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes. You’ll notice it starting to thicken—yum!
4. Combining Chicken with the Sauce:
Next, return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the lovely sauce over the top, making sure each piece gets a generous coat.
5. Adding Cheese:
Sprinkle or place the shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast. Cover the skillet with a lid (this helps the cheese melt nicely!) and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve It Up:
Your Easy Mozzarella Chicken is ready to be served! Spoon that creamy basil sauce over the top and enjoy this delicious meal hot. Great with a side of rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce!
FAQ: Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream like coconut cream. Just keep in mind that the thickening and richness will vary, so you might want to let it simmer a little longer for the desired consistency.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to help restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms during the sauce-making step. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream for added flavor and nutrition!
