This Easy Mozzarella Chicken is a winner! Juicy chicken smothered in a creamy basil sauce topped with melted mozzarella—what’s not to love? It’s simple and quick, perfect for busy nights!
I can’t get enough of this tasty dish and often make it on a whim. I like to serve it with some pasta or crusty bread to soak up that yummy sauce. You’ll be hooked after the first bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for extra juiciness or even turkey cutlets. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich, creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option, keeping an eye on the flavor profile.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor. If you can’t find it fresh, you can use dried basil, but use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely saltiness to the sauce. Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be used as alternatives for a different twist.
Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, but shredded mozzarella also works well. If you’re looking for something with a kick, consider pepper jack cheese.
How Can I Perfectly Cook the Chicken?
Cooking the chicken just right is crucial for this dish. A juicy piece of chicken balances perfectly with the creamy sauce. Here’s what you need to do:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps achieve that lovely golden color.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This prevents steaming and ensures even browning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
How Do I Ensure a Creamy Sauce?
Creating that creamy basil sauce is the heart of the dish. Follow these tips for success:
- After sautéing garlic, let the chicken broth simmer to reduce slightly, enhancing the flavor.
- When adding heavy cream, stir well to combine, and keep the heat low to prevent boiling, which could cause the cream to curdle.
- Adding Parmesan gradually allows it to melt smoothly and integrate into the sauce.
These steps will help you achieve a perfect creamy basil sauce every time! Enjoy the cooking process and share with loved ones!
How to Make Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3-4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, for a hint of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This succulent dish takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes for cooking, totaling around 30 minutes. It’s quick enough to whip up on a busy weeknight while still being delicious and impressive!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor to the chicken. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s at 165°F if you have one. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Make the Flavorful Base:
Now, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant—don’t let it burn! Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan, releasing any browned bits, which adds great flavor to your sauce. Allow this to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
3. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Next, stir in the heavy cream, chopped basil, and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep an eye on it as it simmers. Let it cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. This is where it gets creamy and delicious!
4. Combine Chicken with Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some of the creamy sauce over each piece. Then, lay a slice of fresh mozzarella on top of each chicken breast. Cover the skillet and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
To finish, if you like a little heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the top. Serve the chicken hot with extra creamy basil sauce poured over it. This dish is fantastic paired with pasta, rice, or some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce!
Enjoy your delicious and creamy Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Sauce!
FAQ for Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are more forgiving when it comes to cooking time and will remain juicy and flavorful. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as thighs might take a bit longer depending on their size.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, or for a dairy-free choice, try coconut milk or almond milk. Keep in mind that the flavor and consistency will change slightly, but they can still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Prepare This Meal in Advance?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just refrigerate them separately and then combine and heat on the stove when you’re ready to serve!
