This Easy Mozzarella Chicken is a tasty delight! Juicy chicken gets topped with gooey mozzarella and a creamy basil sauce that’s simply wonderful.
You won’t believe how quick and simple it is to put together. It makes dinner feel fancy without the fuss—perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use chicken thighs; they’re slightly richer in flavor.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich creaminess. If you’re watching your calorie intake or prefer a lighter version, try using half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for a vibrant flavor. If you don’t have fresh basil, use 1-2 teaspoons of dried basil. Just remember, dried herbs are stronger, so use less!
Cheese: Mozzarella is the star here. For a twist, try using provolone or gouda for a different flavor. Grated Parmesan adds a nice touch and can be skipped if you want a simpler dish.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken to perfection ensures a juicy, tender end result. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with even-sized chicken breasts. If they’re thick, consider pounded them down to a uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Use medium-high heat in your skillet. This helps achieve a nice sear while cooking the inside fully.
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, watching for golden brown color.
- To check doneness, use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
Following these tips will keep your chicken moist and flavorful!
Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Ingredients:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or mozzarella slices)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Time Needed:
This Easy Mozzarella Chicken takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and seasoning the chicken, and then around 20 minutes cooking and simmering the sauce. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet delicious enough to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor right to the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Base:
Lower the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of chicken broth into the skillet. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it starts to slightly thicken up.
5. Add the Basil and Cheese:
Stir in the finely chopped fresh basil and, if you’d like, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well and let it cook for another minute to blend the flavors.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Spoon the creamy basil sauce over each piece of chicken to coat them well.
7. Melt the Mozzarella:
Top each chicken breast with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese (or mozzarella slices). Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes. This will help the cheese melt beautifully and the sauce to bubble up.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the mozzarella is melted and gooey, serve the chicken hot! Spoon some extra creamy basil sauce over the chicken and enjoy this delightful dish. It pairs perfectly with steamed vegetables, rice, or crusty bread for dipping.
Enjoy your delicious, creamy, and cheesy Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Sauce! Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for a faster method. Once thawed, proceed with seasoning and cooking as directed in the recipe.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that using these alternatives might slightly change the texture and flavor of the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
What Can I Serve With This Dish?
This creamy mozzarella chicken pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You could also serve it over pasta for a full meal! Alternatively, a fresh salad can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the dish.
