Delicious Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce is not just a dish; it’s an experience, transforming your kitchen into an Italian trattoria with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts, pan-seared to perfection, then bathed in a luxuriously smooth basil-infused cream sauce, and finally topped with generous slices of melty, bubbly mozzarella cheese. This recipe brings together the timeless appeal of classic Italian ingredients – the fragrant fresh basil, the rich cream, and the indulgent mozzarella – creating a symphony of flavors and textures that tantalize the senses.

Why This Dish Captures Hearts (and Palates)

While not a centuries-old family recipe, this modern culinary masterpiece is a testament to the enduring power of simple, high-quality ingredients. It embodies the essence of Italian comfort food, where robust flavors meet creamy indulgence. People adore this Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce because it offers that coveted combination of elegance and simplicity. The convenience of preparing such a restaurant-quality meal at home, often in under 30 minutes, is a major draw. Every bite promises a delightful journey: the fresh herbaceous notes of basil, the savory depth of the chicken, and the comforting embrace of the creamy, cheesy topping. It’s a versatile dish, perfect for a weeknight family dinner or an impressive meal to share with guests, leaving everyone craving another helping.

Ingredients:

For my ultimate Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce, you’ll need a delightful array of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Getting everything prepped and ready before you start cooking makes the whole process so much smoother!

• For the Chicken:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total), butterflied or pounded to an even ½-inch thickness. This crucial step ensures the chicken cooks quickly and evenly, remaining wonderfully tender.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, for searing the chicken. A good quality olive oil adds a lovely depth of flavor to our initial sear.
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste. Salt is fundamental for enhancing all the other flavors in the dish.
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste. Freshly ground pepper offers a more vibrant and aromatic kick than pre-ground.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder. I find garlic powder adheres beautifully to the chicken, creating a flavorful crust.
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano. This classic herb brings a touch of Mediterranean warmth to our chicken.
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced or torn into pieces. Using fresh mozzarella is key for that incredible, gooey melt. Avoid the pre-shredded kind as it often contains anti-caking agents that hinder a smooth melt.
• For the Basil Cream Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Butter is the foundation of our rich and velvety cream sauce, adding a beautiful depth.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh garlic is non-negotiable here; its aromatic essence is the heart of the sauce. Don’t be shy with it!
  • 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred). This helps to deglaze the pan, capturing all those delicious browned bits from the chicken, and forms the initial liquid base for our sauce.
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream. This is where the magic happens for that luxurious, silky texture in our basil cream sauce. Ensure it’s full-fat heavy cream for the best results.
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The sharp, salty notes of Parmesan add a fantastic umami boost and help to thicken the sauce beautifully.
  • ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or thinly sliced (chiffonade), plus extra for garnish. The star of our sauce! Fresh basil provides that vibrant, aromatic lift that distinguishes this dish. Add it at the end to preserve its bright flavor and color.
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, but highly recommended for a subtle warmth). Just a tiny pinch adds a lovely, understated heat that brightens up the entire sauce without making it spicy.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Always taste and adjust your seasoning at the end to perfect the flavor balance.
• Optional for Serving:
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous note.
  • Cooked pasta (like linguine, fettuccine, or penne), rice, or crusty bread for serving. These are perfect for soaking up every last drop of that incredible basil cream sauce!

Preparing the Chicken:

Let’s get started on our incredible Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce! The first step is all about making sure our chicken is perfectly prepped and seasoned for maximum flavor and an even cook.

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts: If your chicken breasts are very thick, I recommend butterflying them horizontally through the middle to create two thinner cutlets, or placing them between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pounding them with a meat mallet (or the bottom of a heavy skillet) until they are an even ½-inch thickness. This step is absolutely crucial for ensuring the chicken cooks quickly and uniformly, preventing dry spots and ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. We want that perfect golden sear on the outside without overcooking the inside.
2. Season the Chicken: On a clean plate or cutting board, generously season both sides of the pounded chicken breasts with 1 teaspoon sea salt, ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon dried oregano. Make sure each piece is well coated. Gently pat the seasonings into the chicken. I find this blend of seasonings creates a wonderfully aromatic base that complements the basil cream sauce beautifully.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably oven-safe if you plan to finish it in the oven, though stovetop is fine) over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in two batches to ensure a proper sear rather than steaming. Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). You’ll see a beautiful golden-brown crust forming, indicating all those delicious flavors are developing.
4. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the seared chicken breasts to a plate and loosely tent them with foil. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken incredibly moist while we prepare our magnificent basil cream sauce. Don’t clean the skillet! Those browned bits left in the pan are called ‘fond’ and they are packed with incredible flavor that we’ll scrape up to enrich our sauce.

Crafting the Basil Cream Sauce:

Now, let’s turn our attention to the star of the show: the rich, aromatic, and utterly irresistible Basil Cream Sauce. This sauce is what truly elevates our Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce into a culinary masterpiece.

5. Sauté the Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the same skillet where you cooked the chicken. Let the butter melt, scraping up any delicious browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. These bits are pure flavor! Once the butter is melted and slightly foamy, add the 4 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the delicate flavor of the sauce. We’re looking for a soft, aromatic scent here.
6. Deglaze with Chicken Broth: Pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the broth to a gentle simmer, continuously scraping the bottom of the pan with your wooden spoon to release all those beautiful, caramelized bits that stuck from the chicken. This process, called deglazing, infuses the broth with a concentrated chicken flavor, forming a wonderful foundation for our cream sauce. Let the broth simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly by about one-third. This intensifies the chicken flavor even further.
7. Add the Cream: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the 1 ½ cups of heavy cream. Bring the sauce to a very gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. It’s important not to let the cream boil vigorously, as this can cause it to curdle or separate. We want a gentle, consistent heat to slowly thicken the sauce. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has visibly thickened to your desired consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon nicely. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer for a few more minutes, stirring frequently.
8. Stir in Parmesan and Basil: Remove the skillet from the heat to allow the sauce to cool slightly before adding the cheese. This prevents the Parmesan from clumping. Stir in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it’s completely melted and smooth. The Parmesan will not only add a wonderful salty, umami depth but also contribute to the sauce’s luxurious thickness. Then, gently fold in ½ cup of freshly chopped or thinly sliced basil leaves and the optional ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Adding the fresh basil at this stage, off the direct heat, is key to preserving its vibrant green color and delicate, aromatic flavor. Cooking it for too long would dull its brightness.
9. Season the Sauce: Taste the basil cream sauce and season it with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Remember, the chicken broth and Parmesan already add some salinity, so taste first before adding more salt. You’re looking for a beautifully balanced flavor profile that is creamy, garlicky, herby, and wonderfully savory. This is where you can truly make the sauce your own!

Assembling and Finishing the Mozzarella Chicken:

We’re in the home stretch! This is where all our hard work comes together to create the magnificent Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce. Get ready for an explosion of flavor and a beautiful presentation.

10. Return Chicken to Sauce: Gently nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the warm basil cream sauce in the skillet. Make sure each piece of chicken is partially submerged in the sauce, allowing it to absorb all those wonderful flavors. If you had to cook the chicken in batches, bring all the pieces back into the pan now.
11. Top with Mozzarella: Arrange the thinly sliced or torn fresh mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Don’t be shy with the cheese; this is the “Mozzarella” part of our “Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce,” after all! You want a generous layer for that ultimate gooey finish.
12. Melt the Mozzarella:
    • Stovetop Method: Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer gently on low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the mozzarella is beautifully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. The steam trapped under the lid will help the cheese melt perfectly.
    • Oven Method (Recommended for an even melt and slight browning): If your skillet is oven-safe, transfer it to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-8 minutes, or until the cheese is gloriously melted and just starting to bubble and turn lightly golden in spots. This method often gives a more even melt and a lovely, slightly caramelized crust on the cheese. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.

    You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is completely molten and stretches invitingly.

13. Garnish and Serve: Carefully remove the skillet from the heat (or oven). Garnish generously with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Allow the dish to rest for just a minute or two before serving, as this helps the sauce to settle and the flavors to meld beautifully. This Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce is absolutely divine served immediately. I love to plate it over a bed of al dente pasta like linguine or fettuccine, some fluffy white rice, or simply alongside a crusty loaf of bread to soak up every last bit of that heavenly basil cream sauce.

Enjoy your homemade Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce! I truly hope you find as much joy in making and eating this dish as I do. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly approachable to make at home, perfect for a cozy weeknight or a special occasion. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it, my friends! We’ve journeyed through the simple yet incredibly rewarding steps to create a dish that I genuinely believe will become a staple in your home, just as it has in mine. This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s an experience, a symphony of flavors that truly elevates a humble weeknight meal into something spectacular. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts, perfectly seared, then bathed in a luxuriously rich, aromatic basil cream sauce, all topped off with bubbling, golden-brown mozzarella. The aroma alone is enough to make your stomach rumble with anticipation, promising a dining experience that’s both comforting and gourmet.

I know many of us are always searching for that perfect balance between ease of preparation and impressive results, and trust me, this recipe nails it. You don’t need to be a culinary wizard to achieve restaurant-quality flavor with this one. The beauty of this dish lies in its straightforward approach, allowing even novice cooks to shine brightly in the kitchen. Every bite offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes – the succulence of the chicken, the creamy decadence of the sauce, and the irresistible pull of melted cheese. It’s a dish that warms the soul and satisfies even the most discerning palates. This recipe for Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce is, without a doubt, a must-try for anyone who loves rich, comforting flavors and dishes that genuinely impress with minimal fuss.

Serving Suggestions & Delightful Variations:

One of the many wonderful aspects of this basil cream sauce chicken is its versatility when it comes to serving. For a complete and satisfying meal, I love serving it alongside a bed of al dente pasta, like fettuccine or linguine, allowing the glorious basil cream sauce to coat every strand. Creamy risotto also makes a fantastic accompaniment, absorbing all the delicious flavors. If you’re looking for something lighter, a simple side of steamed or roasted asparagus, green beans, or broccoli makes a perfect pairing, adding a touch of freshness and vibrant color to your plate. Don’t forget a generous slice of crusty artisan bread, perfect for soaking up every last drop of that incredible sauce – believe me, you won’t want to waste a single drop!

But why stop there? Let’s talk about how you can make this recipe uniquely yours. While the core recipe is a showstopper, there’s always room for creative twists. For an added layer of flavor and texture, consider incorporating some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes into the cream sauce; their earthy or tangy notes complement the basil beautifully. A handful of fresh spinach, wilted into the sauce at the very end, not only adds a vibrant green hue but also a nutritious boost. If you’re a fan of a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle warmth that truly awakens the palate without overpowering the delicate basil. You could even experiment with different herbs – a touch of fresh oregano or thyme could offer a slightly different aromatic profile. For those who love a cheese pull that goes on forever, a mix of mozzarella and provolone could be an interesting variation, offering a sharper, more distinct cheese flavor. And for the ultimate comfort food experience, you could even simmer the chicken in the sauce for a longer period, perhaps even turning it into a slow-cooker adaptation, though the searing step is truly key for maximum flavor.

Your Culinary Adventure Awaits!

Now, it’s your turn! I’ve shared my passion for this incredible dish, and now I’m eagerly waiting for you to embark on your own culinary adventure. Don’t hesitate to gather your ingredients, put on your favorite apron, and dive right into preparing this fantastic recipe. I promise you, the joy of creating something so utterly delicious with your own hands is incredibly satisfying, and the look on the faces of your loved ones as they savor each bite will be your greatest reward. This dish is designed to bring smiles, warmth, and delicious memories to your dining table.

I am genuinely excited for you to experience the magic of this basil cream sauce chicken. Once you’ve made it, please, please come back and share your experience with me! Did you add a unique twist? What did you serve it with? How did your family react? Your feedback, your photos, and your stories mean the world to me and help inspire others in our cooking community. Let’s build a collection of shared triumphs and delicious moments together. Happy cooking, everyone!

Delicious Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce is not just a dish; it’s an experience, transforming your kitchen into an Italian trattoria with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts, pan-seared to perfection, then bathed in a luxuriously smooth basil-infused cream sauce, and finally topped with generous slices of melty, bubbly mozzarella cheese. This recipe brings together the timeless appeal of classic Italian ingredients – the fragrant fresh basil, the rich cream, and the indulgent mozzarella – creating a symphony of flavors and textures that tantalize the senses.

Prep Time
20 Minutes

Cook Time
25 Minutes

Total Time
45 Minutes

Servings
4 servings

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 to 2 pounds total), butterflied or pounded to ½-inch thickness
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced or torn
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or thinly sliced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Prepare chicken: Butterfly or pound 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts to ½-inch thickness. Season both sides with 1 tsp sea salt, ½ tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp dried oregano.
2. Step 2
   Sear chicken: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F/74°C). Transfer chicken to a plate and tent with foil. Do not clean the skillet.
3. Step 3
   Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat, scraping up browned bits. Add 4 minced garlic cloves; sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Step 4
   Build sauce base: Pour in 1 cup chicken broth, deglazing the pan. Simmer 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Step 5
   Thicken cream sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in 1 ½ cups heavy cream and gently simmer 5-7 minutes until thickened.
6. Step 6
   Finish sauce: Remove from heat. Stir in ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Fold in ½ cup chopped fresh basil leaves and optional ¼ tsp red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Step 7
   Combine & melt cheese: Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Top each breast with 8 oz thinly sliced or torn fresh mozzarella.
8. Step 8
   Melt mozzarella: Cover skillet and simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes OR transfer oven-safe skillet to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 5-8 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Step 9
   Garnish & serve: Garnish with extra fresh basil and chopped parsley. Rest 1-2 minutes before serving immediately, optionally with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.