This Easy Mozzarella Chicken features juicy chicken breasts topped with melted mozzarella and a creamy basil sauce. It’s comfort food that’s quick and oh-so-delicious!
I love how the cheese just oozes out when you cut into the chicken. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish, as they cook evenly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a richer flavor or go with turkey breasts for a leaner option.
Olive Oil: This is great for cooking due to its flavor and health benefits. If you’re out of olive oil, feel free to use vegetable oil or coconut oil instead. They both work well for frying!
Heavy Cream: It gives your sauce its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream, which adds a nice hint of sweetness.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is the star for flavor here! If you don’t have it, dried basil can substitute, but use less since dried herbs are more potent. You might also experiment with fresh spinach for a different taste.
Parmesan Cheese: For that cheesy and salty flavor, grated Parmesan works best. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give you a similar flavor boost.
How Do I Keep the Chicken Juicy While Cooking?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but there are a few tips to ensure it stays juicy. First, make sure to season your chicken well. This enhances the flavor right from the start.
- Use medium-high heat to get a nice golden crust on the outside while keeping the inside moist.
- Don’t overcook! Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer if needed.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping each bite tender and flavorful.
By following these tips, your Easy Mozzarella Chicken will be a hit at the dinner table!
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
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
- 3-4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a slight kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook. In total, you can have this delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
First things first, season those chicken breasts! Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of each chicken breast. This helps to enhance the flavor from the very beginning!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breast. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on one side until it gets a nice golden brown color. Flip it over and cook the other side for another 5 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink inside. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! Next, pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds fantastic flavor to your sauce!
4. Add Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream and let it gently simmer for a minute. Then, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melted and the sauce starts to thicken. This will give your dish a rich, creamy texture!
5. Stir in Basil and Combine:
Add the finely chopped fresh basil to the sauce and mix well. Taste your sauce and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. If you like a bit of heat, now’s the time to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes!
6. Melt the Mozzarella:
Return the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet. Spoon some of that delicious creamy sauce over each piece and top with a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat for 3-4 minutes until the mozzarella melts beautifully over the chicken.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is melted and bubbling, serve the chicken hot on a plate along with extra creamy basil sauce drizzled over the top. This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite!
FAQ for Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great for this recipe, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you’re looking to make a dairy-free version, you can use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. Look for dairy-free cheese alternatives for the mozzarella to top your chicken!
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This creamy mozzarella chicken pairs well with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over pasta, rice, or quinoa. It’s also delicious alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a lighter option.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. Just reheat gently on the stove before adding the mozzarella and finishing the dish. This will help preserve the chicken’s juiciness and the sauce’s creaminess!
