This Easy Mozzarella Chicken is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken breasts are smothered in a creamy basil sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. Talk about comfort food!
Honestly, who doesn’t love melted cheese? I like to serve this dish with pasta or rice to soak up all that yummy sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you have thighs on hand, they work great too! They add more flavor and moisture.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives that rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy option like coconut cream for different flavor profiles.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor! If it’s out of season or you can’t find it, dried basil can substitute, but use only about 1 tablespoon since it’s more concentrated.
Cheese: Mozzarella adds the famous gooeyness. If you want a sharper taste, try provolone or fontina cheese instead. Parmesan is optional but adds extra depth; I always recommend it if you enjoy a bit of a salty kick!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken Breasts Perfectly?
Getting juicy chicken breasts can feel tricky, but a few steps can help. First, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if you have to. This ensures they brown nicely without steaming.
- Start with a preheated skillet on medium-high heat. Let the oil heat up before adding chicken.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes on one side. Resist the urge to flip them too soon; this will help form a nice crust!
- Check for doneness using a meat thermometer (165°F is the target). If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part to make sure juices run clear.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken every time, making your dish even more enjoyable!
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, chopped (about a handful)
- 1 cup shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for extra flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, but fancy enough for special occasions. Get ready to impress with minimal fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps them brown better and seasoning sticks well. Sprinkle both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Look for a nice golden color and ensure it’s cooked through. When done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, turn the heat down to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant; be careful not to let it burn! Then, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine all the flavors left in the skillet from the chicken.
4. Add Seasoning:
Stir in the Italian seasoning and the freshly chopped basil. Let this sauce simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes so it thickens slightly. The smell will be wonderful!
5. Cook the Chicken in Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of that creamy basil sauce over each piece. Now, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the chicken for that gooey goodness.
6. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly. This will ensure the chicken stays juicy and absorbs all that lovely flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
If you’d like to add a little more richness, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top right before serving. Serve this delicious chicken hot, spooning extra creamy basil sauce over the top. It pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or a simple salad.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy mozzarella chicken with fragrant basil in every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for their quick cooking time, you can also use boneless thighs for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a few minutes longer.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, half-and-half or whole milk can work, although the sauce will be less creamy. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk or cashew cream for richness and a unique flavor twist.
How to Store Leftover Mozzarella Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If it seems too thick, a splash of broth or milk can help restore the creaminess!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy basil sauce ahead of time! Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just heat it gently before adding the chicken and cheese when you’re ready to serve.
