There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a delicious homemade meal, especially after a long day. Picture this: tender chicken simmering in a creamy basil sauce, with the rich aroma filling your kitchen as melted mozzarella cascades over the top. It’s not just food; it’s a warm invitation for nostalgia and togetherness. I discovered Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce during one of those evenings when takeout just wouldn’t cut it. With its simplicity and bold flavors, this quick dish transforms a busy weeknight into a delightful feast that can impress any guest.
In less than 30 minutes, you can whip up this elegant yet easy recipe that’s naturally gluten-free and adaptable to suit any dietary preferences. Whether you’re pairing it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, there’s not another meal quite like it. Prepare to indulge in a succulent entrée that feels luxurious while effortlessly fitting into your routine. Let’s dive into this culinary wonder that’s sure to become a staple in your home!
Why is Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks.
Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights!
Versatile Pairing Options: Serve it over pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal that suits any taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of melted mozzarella and creamy basil sauce will impress family and friends alike.
Naturally Gluten-Free: Enjoy this indulgent dish without worrying about dietary restrictions. This quick weeknight delight is about to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken breasts – Boneless and skinless for tenderness and easy cooking.
• Salt – Adjust to taste for enhanced flavor.
• Black pepper – Adds mild heat; adjust according to your preference.
• Garlic powder – Provides savory depth; fresh garlic is a great alternative.
• Paprika – For a touch of color and a hint of smokiness.
• Olive oil – Essential for cooking the chicken, adding moisture and flavor.
• Butter – Enriches the sauce with a creamy finish.
For the Sauce
• Fresh mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully, adding creaminess and texture.
• Heavy cream – Forms the base of the luxurious sauce; substitute half-and-half for a lighter option.
• Chicken broth – Adds depth and moisture to enhance the sauce.
• Garlic (fresh, minced) – Contributes a strong aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
• Parmesan cheese (grated) – Enhances creaminess and adds a cheesy richness.
• Italian seasoning – Brings a delightful mix of herb flavors that complement the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – Provides a hint of heat to personalize the flavor.
• Fresh basil (chopped) – Freshens the dish with vibrant flavor; parsley or spinach can be used as substitutes.
Enjoy the wholesome taste of Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce in your home-cooked meals!
How to Make Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
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Prepare the Chicken: Slice chicken breasts horizontally to create four cutlets. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for a flavorful kick.
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Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, warm olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Melt the Cheese: Once the chicken is cooked, top each cutlet with fresh mozzarella. Cover the skillet briefly to melt the cheese, then set the chicken aside.
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Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
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Make the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth while scraping up the delicious browned bits. Mix in heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
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Add Fresh Basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil and return the chicken cutlets to the skillet. Spoon sauce generously over the chicken and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to infuse flavors.
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Serve & Enjoy: Plate your Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce over pasta, fluffy rice, or with crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Serve immediately to enjoy the comforting warmth!
Optional: Garnish with extra fresh basil for a pop of color and added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your personal touch on this enchanting dish with delightful variations. Let your creativity flow as you explore these scrumptious options!
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Thighs Instead of Breasts: Swap boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs for an extra burst of juiciness and flavor. Thighs are richer and add a depth to the dish that’s simply irresistible!
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Cheese Alternatives: Use shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese instead of fresh mozzarella for a different melting experience. These cheeses still provide that beloved gooeyness while introducing a subtle change in taste.
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Lighter Sauce Option: For a lighter version, consider swapping heavy cream with half-and-half or a reduced-fat cream. Your taste buds won’t miss a beat with the delightful richness still intact!
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Veggie Boost: Enhance the nutrition by adding vibrant vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms. They’ll add lovely color and texture, making this dish even more wholesome.
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Fresh Herbs Twist: Experiment with flavor by substituting fresh basil with other herbs such as parsley, oregano, or thyme. Each herb adds a unique flair that might just surprise you!
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Spice It Up: Looking for some heat? Toss in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. A little spice can elevate the creamy sauce to new heights, satisfying your taste for the fiery!
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Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free alternative, replace heavy cream with coconut cream. This addition brings a gentle sweetness and exotic undertone that pairs beautifully with the basil.
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Zoodle Base: Serve this dish over zoodles (zucchini noodles) instead of pasta or rice for a lighter, gluten-free option. It’s a fun way to add more veggies to your meal!
What to Serve with Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce?
Imagine crafting a complete meal around this delightful dish that captures the essence of home-cooked comfort.
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Garlic Butter Pasta: This warm, buttery pasta absorbs the creamy sauce, creating a dreamy combination of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Velvety mashed potatoes provide a comforting base, enhancing the indulgence of the mozzarella chicken and soaking up the luscious sauce.
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Steamed Green Beans: Freshly steamed green beans add a crisp, vibrant contrast to the creamy dish while providing a healthy side to balance out the meal.
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Garlicky Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping into the rich basil cream sauce, making every bite feel special.
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Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad offers a refreshing crunch that complements the creamy elements of the main dish, making it a well-rounded meal.
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Chilled Chardonnay: This crisp white wine pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the chicken, bringing out the herbal notes while keeping the dining experience refreshing.
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Fresh Caprese Salad: Combining juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella with fragrant basil creates an elegant side that mirrors the dish’s flavors, enhancing the overall experience.
Prepare to savor every bite and enjoy a delightful meal with these wonderful pairings!
Make Ahead Options
These Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the chicken and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply slice the chicken breasts and season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. To maintain quality, store the seasoned chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The basil cream sauce can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead—just make sure to store it separately to keep the mozzarella fresh. When it’s time to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet, topping with mozzarella to melt just before plating. This ensures that your meal is just as delicious with minimal effort on busy nights!
How to Store and Freeze Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. To avoid freezer burn, remove as much air as possible before sealing.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to keep the sauce creamy. Ensure the chicken is heated through to 165°F before serving.
Make-Ahead: This dish can be made ahead, and the flavors improve after resting in the fridge for a day. Just reheat gently and serve for a quick weeknight meal!
Expert Tips for Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
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Perfect Temperature: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to avoid dryness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
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Sauce Flavor: Don’t clean the skillet after cooking chicken; those browned bits add depth to your basil cream sauce.
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Quick Prep: Consider using pre-sliced chicken for faster cooking and easy preparation on busy weeknights.
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Cheese Choices: Feel free to substitute different cheeses, like provolone or even cheddar, to create variations of this mozzarella chicken in basil cream sauce.
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Boost Nutrients: Add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the dish for added nutrition and flavor without compromising the essence of this beloved recipe.
Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they keep the meat tender and juicy while cooking. You can also use boneless chicken thighs for added juiciness, or even pre-sliced chicken for quicker preparation.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it up to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce?
Yes, you can freeze it! Portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened during freezing.
What if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a little chicken broth or cream while gently warming it on the stove until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir well to incorporate. This will bring back that lovely creamy texture we aim for!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Very! This dish is naturally gluten-free, as long as you ensure all ingredients are gluten-free certified, like the chicken broth and any additional seasonings. It’s a fantastic option for those with gluten sensitivities!
How can I personalize this dish for dietary preferences?
The possibilities are endless! You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter option, or incorporate veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to boost nutrition. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses like provolone or cheddar, and adjust spice levels by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes.
Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce for Effortless Weeknight Eats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice chicken breasts horizontally to create four cutlets. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for a flavorful kick.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, warm olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Melt the Cheese: Once the chicken is cooked, top each cutlet with fresh mozzarella. Cover the skillet briefly to melt the cheese, then set the chicken aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
- Make the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth while scraping up the delicious browned bits. Mix in heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Fresh Basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil and return the chicken cutlets to the skillet. Spoon sauce generously over the chicken and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to infuse flavors.
- Serve & Enjoy: Plate your Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce over pasta, fluffy rice, or with crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Serve immediately to enjoy the comforting warmth!