This Easy Mozzarella Chicken is a real treat! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with melted mozzarella and coated in a lovely creamy basil sauce that makes each bite so tasty.
I love how simple it is to whip up, and my family can’t get enough of that cheesy goodness. Serve it with pasta or bread, and you’ll be the dinner hero tonight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and stay juicy. You can substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. They add a richer flavor and stay moist well.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce creamy and delicious. If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich. For dairy-free, try coconut cream or cashew cream as alternatives.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key for that aromatic flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use dried basil (1 tablespoon), but it’s best to add it early in the cooking process. You might lose some freshness but still get good flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully on the chicken. You can substitute with provolone or fontina cheese if you want to mix things up. For a lighter cheese, use part-skim mozzarella.
How Do I Make a Creamy Sauce Without It Curdling?
A creamy sauce can be a bit tricky, but with the right techniques, it’ll be silky every time! Here’s how to avoid curdling.
- Keep the heat medium to low once you add dairy like cream. High heat can cause it to separate.
- Stir constantly after adding the cream to help it warm through evenly.
- Adding freshly chopped basil at the end of cooking keeps the flavor vibrant and helps prevent curdling.
- If you’re worried, you can temper the cream by mixing a bit of the hot sauce into it first, then adding it back to the pan.
Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or sliced mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes of cooking time. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor right from the beginning!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook the chicken for around 5-6 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Creamy Basil Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it burn!
Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently to mix in all those tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add the chopped basil and let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Combine and Melt:
Now, return the chicken breasts to the skillet, and spoon some of that delicious sauce over them. Then, place the shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese evenly on top of each chicken breast.
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the mozzarella melts beautifully over the chicken.
5. Finish and Serve:
If you want, stir a tablespoon of butter into the sauce for extra creaminess. It’s optional, but adds a nice rich flavor! Serve your chicken right away, topped with the creamy basil sauce. This dish goes great with your favorite sides like pasta, rice, or some crusty bread to soak up that sauce.
Enjoy your delicious mozzarella-covered chicken in a rich, creamy basil sauce!
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 remain juicy. Just be sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re safe to eat.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Use dairy-free cheese for the mozzarella as well!
What Should I Serve With This Dish?
This creamy chicken pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a crisp salad. You could also enjoy it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
