This Easy Mozzarella Chicken is a tasty dish that combines juicy chicken with creamy basil sauce. Topped with gooey mozzarella, it’s pure comfort food!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish due to their quick cooking time and tenderness. You can use thighs for more flavor or any cut of chicken you prefer, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you need a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream if you’re dairy-free. Just keep in mind it won’t be as thick.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a wonderful aroma and flavor to the sauce. In a pinch, you can use dried basil, but reduce the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. I often have a small basil plant at home for freshness!
Mozzarella Cheese: I recommend using fresh mozzarella for its gooey texture, but pre-shredded mozzarella is convenient and works too. Try adding parmesan for an added flavor boost!
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Juicy?
Cooking chicken to perfection is key to this dish. Here are tips for juicy chicken breasts:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps seal in the juices.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This prevents steaming.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
Following these tips will ensure your chicken is deliciously tender and perfectly cooked every time!
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 (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
- 1 cup shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25-30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing and cooking the chicken, followed by 15-20 minutes making the creamy basil sauce and melting the cheese. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. You want it to be fragrant but not browned.
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. If you’re using Italian seasoning, add it now. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. This will help it thicken up nicely.
5. Add Fresh Basil:
Once the sauce is simmering, stir in the chopped fresh basil. Let the sauce cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. This is where the creaminess and flavor really come together!
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over the top. This will infuse the chicken with the delicious flavors of the sauce.
7. Add the Mozzarella:
Top each chicken breast with an equal amount of mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid, and let it cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly. This is the best part!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken hot, spooning extra creamy basil sauce over the top. This dish goes perfectly with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. Dig in and enjoy your delicious, cheesy, creamy basil chicken!
Feel free to add your own twist to the dish by incorporating different herbs or spices. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe, you can also use chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you want a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative. You can also use less cheese—try reducing the mozzarella to ¾ cup or swapping in a lower-fat cheese.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken gently and add fresh mozzarella to melt before serving.
What Should I Serve with Mozzarella Chicken?
This dish pairs nicely with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A simple green salad or garlic bread also makes a great side!
