Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe

This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is one of those magical dinners you’ll dream about long after the dishes are done. Golden seared chicken, blanketed in a blanket of stretchy mozzarella, basking in a rich basil-speckled cream sauce—it’s pure comfort food, but still dressed to impress. My favorite part? You get to Return the chicken to the skillet, letting it soak up every drop of that luscious sauce for a dinner that tastes like a cozy Italian restaurant right at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need a mile-long grocery list to make this dish, but each ingredient truly shines. Every element—from the juicy chicken to the aromatic fresh basil—comes together for a meal that’s bright, creamy, and full of flavor. Don’t skip on the essentials; they each play their part!

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Gives the chicken a gorgeous golden sear and adds rich, fruity flavor.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning every bite to perfection.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings subtle warmth and an extra layer of savory flavor to the chicken.
• 1 cup heavy cream: The foundation of your luscious silky sauce—it’s worth the splurge.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and helps balance the richness of the cream.
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic: Sautéed just briefly to add a punch of aromatic garlicky goodness.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that irresistibly gooey, stretchy topping.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharp, salty, umami flavor to balance the creaminess.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or 1–2 tsp dried basil): Fresh basil infuses the sauce with brightness, but dried will do if that’s what you have.
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening): For that perfect, dreamy, thick sauce texture.

How to Make Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry (this helps that golden sear happen!). Sprinkle both sides evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. The seasoning gets into every nook and cranny, setting the stage for bold, savory flavors as you move through the next steps.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Grab your largest skillet and set it over medium-high heat. Drizzle in the olive oil, then add the chicken. Let each side sear untouched for 5–6 minutes, developing that irresistible crust. Once they’re beautifully golden and cooked through, transfer them to a plate. Don’t clean the skillet—you’ll want those flavorful browned bits for the sauce.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Basil Sauce

With the chicken set aside, turn your heat down to medium. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and give it a quick sauté until fragrant—about a minute. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any caramelized goodness left from the chicken. Let it all bubble gently for a few minutes, setting the stage for rich flavor.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses

Now for the cheesy bliss! Stir in both the Parmesan and mozzarella until they melt into a silky, gooey sauce. If you prefer an ultra-thick sauce, blend the cornstarch with water and stir it in. Watch as the sauce transforms into a blanket of creamy decadence.

Step 5: Add the Basil

Sprinkle in your fresh basil (or dried, if using) and let the sauce simmer for one more minute. This is when the whole kitchen fills with that wonderful herbal aroma—pure anticipation!

Step 6: Return the chicken to the skillet and Finish

Now for the magic! Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it right into that bubbling sauce. Spoon the sauce lovingly over each piece and let it all cook together for 2–3 minutes more. Everything melds, the sauce thickens, and cheese becomes perfectly stretchy and gooey. This is what weeknight dreams are made of.

How to Serve Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Garnishes

Take your Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce over the top with a flurry of fresh basil ribbons or a light sprinkle of extra Parmesan. A crack of black pepper or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil makes each serving feel ultra-special.

Side Dishes

This dish loves company! Serve it alongside buttery noodles, fluffy rice, or a hunk of crusty bread to mop up all that dreamy sauce. For something lighter, a crisp green salad or simple steamed veggies balance every rich, cheesy bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn dinner into an event by plating the chicken atop a swirl of creamy mashed potatoes, or try it over a roasted vegetable medley for a colorful twist. Want to impress? Serve individual portions in mini cast iron skillets with sauce bubbling at the table. It’s comfort with a touch of drama.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Return the chicken to the skillet (or a storage container) and let it cool completely before sealing it. It will keep fresh in the fridge for up to three days, ready for a quick meal in minutes.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this dish, though the sauce may separate just a bit. For best results, Return the chicken to the skillet and let it cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to two months, and thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy again.

Reheating

The best way to bring back that fresh-made flavor is to Return the chicken to the skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce seems too thick. Heat gently, stirring often, until the cheese is once again dreamy and stretchy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will be a bit juicier and add extra richness. Just adjust the cook time as needed, and Return the chicken to the skillet as directed to finish in that luscious sauce.

Is it possible to make this dish with half-and-half or milk?

You can swap in half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it won’t be as rich or thick. If using milk, consider adding the optional cornstarch slurry and Return the chicken to the skillet for an extra minute or two so the sauce thickens up beautifully.

Can I make this dish ahead for a dinner party?

Definitely! Make the sauce and sear the chicken earlier in the day. At dinnertime, simply Return the chicken to the skillet with the sauce and warm through until everything is bubbling and gooey. Just add your mozzarella at the last minute for the best melt.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. After searing, Return the chicken to the skillet in the sauce and watch for it to turn opaque and juicy with no pink in the center. Always check thickest sections just to be sure.

What can I do if my sauce is too thin?

Not a problem! Simply stir in the cornstarch slurry gradually, letting it simmer as you Return the chicken to the skillet. It will thicken quickly for that perfect, restaurant-worthy finish.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re planning a special dinner or just want an excuse to treat yourself midweek, I can’t recommend this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce enough. Return the chicken to the skillet and watch as the magic happens—it’s truly a dish that welcomes everyone to the table with open arms. Give it a try, and get ready for glowing reviews from anyone lucky enough to share your meal!

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