Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce — imagine a dish so rich, so aromatic, and so utterly satisfying that it instantly becomes a weeknight hero or a special occasion showstopper. We’ve all yearned for that perfect meal that feels both gourmet and incredibly comforting, and I promise you, this recipe delivers on every front. While the specific combination isn’t an ancient, time-honored classic, its roots are deeply inspired by the timeless, fresh flavors of Italian culinary traditions, where basil, cream, and mozzarella are celebrated for their ability to elevate simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary.
Why Everyone Adore This Creamy Chicken Dish
People simply adore this dish for its incredible balance of flavors and textures. The succulent chicken, pan-seared to perfection, is enveloped in a velvety, herbaceous basil cream sauce, then crowned with gooey, melted mozzarella. It’s an explosion of creamy, savory goodness in every bite, making it both elegant enough for guests and comforting enough for a cozy family dinner. The convenience of creating such an impressive meal with relatively straightforward steps is truly what makes Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce a beloved staple in so many homes. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones!
<h2>Ingredients:</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts:</strong> Approximately 6-8 ounces each. I prefer using chicken breasts for this recipe, but chicken thighs can also be a wonderful, more forgiving alternative if you prefer. They are perfect for absorbing the rich flavors of our <strong>Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce</strong>.</li>
<li><strong>1/2 Cup All-Purpose Flour:</strong> For dredging the chicken. This creates a light coating that helps the chicken brown beautifully and slightly thickens our sauce later.</li>
<li><strong>1 Teaspoon Salt:</strong> Divided. We’ll use some for seasoning the chicken and some for the sauce. Adjust to your taste.</li>
<li><strong>1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper:</strong> Divided, for seasoning. Freshly ground is always best, in my opinion, for maximum aroma.</li>
<li><strong>1 Teaspoon Dried Italian Seasoning:</strong> Or a mix of dried oregano and thyme. This adds a lovely aromatic base to our chicken before it even hits the pan.</li>
<li><strong>2 Tablespoons Olive Oil:</strong> For searing the chicken. I always opt for a good quality extra virgin olive oil.</li>
<li><strong>2 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter:</strong> For searing the chicken and building the sauce base. Butter adds a richness that oil alone cannot provide.</li>
<li><strong>1 Small Shallot:</strong> Finely minced. If you don’t have a shallot, half a small yellow onion, finely minced, will work just as well, though the flavor will be slightly less delicate.</li>
<li><strong>3-4 Cloves Garlic:</strong> Minced. I’m a firm believer that you can never have too much garlic, especially when building a robust <strong>basil cream sauce</strong>.</li>
<li><strong>1/2 Cup Dry White Wine:</strong> Such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. This is optional but highly recommended for deglazing and adding depth. If you prefer not to use wine, simply use an additional 1/2 cup of chicken broth.</li>
<li><strong>1 Cup Chicken Broth:</strong> Low sodium is preferred, so we can control the salt content ourselves. This forms the flavorful liquid base of our sauce.</li>
<li><strong>1 1/2 Cups Heavy Cream:</strong> Also known as whipping cream. This is the star ingredient for achieving that luxurious, velvety texture in our <strong>basil cream sauce</strong>.</li>
<li><strong>1/2 Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes:</strong> Optional, but I love the subtle warmth it adds to balance the richness of the cream. Adjust to your preferred spice level.</li>
<li><strong>1/2 Cup Fresh Basil Leaves:</strong> Roughly chopped. Fresh basil is absolutely crucial for the vibrant flavor that defines <strong>Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce</strong>. Don’t skimp on this!</li>
<li><strong>1 Cup Fresh Mozzarella:</strong> Sliced or torn into small pieces, or shredded low-moisture mozzarella. Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and creates those irresistible cheesy pockets.</li>
<li><strong>Optional Garnish:</strong> Extra fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Preparing the Chicken for Our Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce</h3>
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<h4>Pounding the Chicken:</h4> Lay your chicken breasts one at a time between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a large freezer bag. Using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy skillet, pound them gently until they are about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick and of an even thickness. <strong>This step is vital</strong> for ensuring even cooking and tenderness, preventing the edges from drying out while the center cooks. It also increases the surface area for more of that delicious seasoning!
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<li>
<h4>Seasoning the Chicken:</h4> In a shallow dish, combine the 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and the 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly. Dredge each pounded chicken breast in the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s lightly and evenly coated on all sides. Gently shake off any excess flour. <strong>This light coating not only adds flavor but also helps create a beautiful golden crust</strong> when searing and will subtly contribute to thickening our basil cream sauce later.
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</ol>
<h3>Searing the Chicken to Golden Perfection</h3>
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<h4>Heating the Pan:</h4> Heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the butter has melted and the oil shimmers, just before it starts to smoke. <strong>A hot pan is crucial</strong> for achieving that desirable golden-brown crust on your chicken.
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<li>
<h4>Searing the Chicken Breasts:</h4> Carefully place the floured chicken breasts into the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. You might need to do this in two batches. Sear for 3-5 minutes per side, until they are beautifully golden brown and caramelized. <strong>We’re not aiming to cook them through completely at this stage</strong>; they will finish cooking in the sauce. The goal here is to build flavor and texture.
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<li>
<h4>Resting the Chicken:</h4> Once seared, remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Do not clean the pan! <strong>Those browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan, known as “fond,” are pure flavor gold</strong> and will be the foundation of our incredible <strong>basil cream sauce</strong>.
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</ol>
<h3>Crafting the Luxurious Basil Cream Sauce</h3>
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<li>
<h4>Sautéing Aromatics:</h4> Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the same skillet (no need to clean it!). Add the minced shallot and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens and becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. <strong>Be careful not to burn the garlic</strong>, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the delicate balance of our sauce.
</li>
<li>
<h4>Deglazing the Pan:</h4> Pour in the 1/2 cup of dry white wine (or extra chicken broth if omitting wine). Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those flavorful browned bits (the fond) from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer and reduce by about half, which should take 2-3 minutes. <strong>This deglazing step is crucial for unlocking all the concentrated flavors</strong> left behind from searing the chicken.
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<li>
<h4>Building the Creamy Base:</h4> Stir in the 1 cup of chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Next, pour in the 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to gently simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to slightly thicken. <strong>We want a sauce that coats the back of a spoon,</strong> but isn’t overly thick at this stage, as it will continue to thicken as it cools.
</li>
<li>
<h4>Seasoning the Sauce:</h4> Taste the <strong>basil cream sauce</strong> and season with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed. Remember, the flavors will concentrate slightly as it continues to cook, so err on the side of slightly under-seasoning and adjust at the end.
</li>
</ol>
<h3>Assembling and Finishing Your Mozzarella Chicken</h3>
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<li>
<h4>Adding the Fresh Basil:</h4> Remove the skillet from the heat, or keep it on very low. Stir in the roughly chopped 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves. <strong>Adding basil at the very end ensures its vibrant green color and delicate aroma are preserved</strong>, rather than turning dull and losing its potency with prolonged cooking. The heat of the sauce will be enough to wilt it perfectly.
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<li>
<h4>Returning the Chicken to the Sauce:</h4> Carefully nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the <strong>basil cream sauce</strong>. Make sure each piece is partially submerged in the luscious sauce.
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<li>
<h4>Melting the Mozzarella:</h4> Distribute the 1 cup of fresh mozzarella slices or shredded mozzarella evenly over the chicken breasts. <strong>This is where the “Mozzarella Chicken” part of our dish truly shines!</strong> Cover the skillet with a lid or a piece of foil and let it cook on very low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and the mozzarella is beautifully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. If your cheese isn’t browning as much as you’d like, you can briefly place the skillet under a broiler for a minute or two, watching it very carefully to prevent burning.
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<li>
<h4>Resting and Garnish:</h4> Once the mozzarella is perfectly melted, remove the skillet from the heat. <strong>Allow the <strong>Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce</strong> to rest for 5 minutes</strong> before serving. This allows the juices in the chicken to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.
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</ol>
<h3>Serving Your Exquisite Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce</h3>
<p>This <strong>Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce</strong> is a complete meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides. I love serving it with a bed of fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes, which are perfect for soaking up every last drop of that incredible <strong>basil cream sauce</strong>. <strong>Another excellent choice is pasta</strong> – think linguine, fettuccine, or even penne. You can simply pour the chicken and sauce over your cooked pasta, tossing gently to coat. For a lighter accompaniment, a side of steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would be absolutely fantastic, adding a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. <strong>Don’t forget some crusty bread</strong> to mop up any remaining sauce – it’s truly too good to waste! This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, but elegant enough to impress guests at a special gathering. Enjoy every luxurious, flavorful bite of your homemade <strong>Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce</strong>!</p>
<h4>Storage Instructions:</h4>
<p>Leftovers of this <strong>Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce</strong> can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. <strong>Be careful not to overheat the chicken</strong>, as this can cause it to dry out. The flavors often meld and deepen beautifully overnight, making for an even more delightful meal the next day. I find that the basil cream sauce tends to maintain its texture and richness quite well upon reheating, continuing to deliver that comforting and savory experience. <strong>This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal</strong> right in the comfort of your own home, making it a staple in my kitchen.</p>
<h2>Conclusion:</h2>
<p>So there you have it, my friends! We’ve journeyed through the steps of creating a dish that truly stands out – a symphony of flavors that will undoubtedly become a treasured addition to your culinary repertoire. This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s an experience. The moment you taste the perfectly seared chicken, blanketed in that velvety, aromatic basil cream sauce, with gooey mozzarella melting on top, you’ll understand exactly why I’m so passionate about it. It’s comforting, it’s elegant, and it’s surprisingly straightforward to prepare, making it the ideal choice for both bustling weeknights and more celebratory occasions. This is the kind of dish that garners rave reviews and empty plates, leaving everyone at the table utterly satisfied. I can confidently say that mastering this recipe will bring a huge amount of joy to your kitchen and your dinner table, transforming simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary.</p>
<p>Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as the fresh basil infuses the cream, the golden-brown chicken sizzling, and the mozzarella bubbling to perfection. This is the magic of making a truly exceptional meal from scratch. What we’ve crafted together is nothing less than a culinary hug on a plate, a dish that manages to feel both luxurious and profoundly comforting all at once. The combination of succulent chicken, the bright, peppery notes of fresh basil, the richness of cream, and the irresistible melt of mozzarella creates a harmony that’s simply unmatched. It’s truly a testament to how simple, quality ingredients can be transformed into something magnificent. This is precisely why the <strong>Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce</strong> isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to elevate your home cooking and impress anyone you serve it to.</p>
<h4>Elevate Your Meal: Serving Suggestions</h4>
<p>Now, let’s talk about enhancing this already incredible meal with the perfect accompaniments. While the main dish is undeniably the star, choosing the right sides can elevate the entire dining experience. For a truly hearty and satisfying meal, I often love to serve my <strong>Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce</strong> over a bed of al dente linguine or fettuccine, allowing the glorious basil cream sauce to coat every strand of pasta – it’s a match made in culinary heaven! If you’re leaning towards something lighter, a simple side of steamed asparagus, green beans, or a vibrant mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a wonderful contrast, cutting through the richness of the sauce beautifully. Creamy mashed potatoes are another fantastic pairing, soaking up every last drop of that delectable sauce. And of course, you absolutely must have some crusty artisan bread on hand to sop up any remaining sauce; trust me, you won’t want a single drop to go to waste! For a sophisticated touch, consider pairing this dish with a crisp, unoaked Chardonnay or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio – their acidity will complement the creamy sauce without overpowering the delicate basil notes. On the non-alcoholic side, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime provides a refreshing palate cleanser.</p>
<h4>Make It Your Own: Delightful Variations</h4>
<p>The beauty of home cooking lies in its adaptability, and this <strong>Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce</strong> recipe is wonderfully versatile. Feel free to make it your own! If you’re looking to add more vegetables, sauté some finely chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms with the chicken before adding the cream – they’ll absorb all the wonderful flavors. For a slightly different cheese profile, consider swapping out some of the mozzarella for provolone for a sharper, more piquant note, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra salty kick. If you prefer a richer, more intense basil flavor, feel free to gently bruise some extra fresh basil leaves and stir them in at the very end, just before serving. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added with the garlic will introduce a delightful warmth to the sauce. And for a low-carb alternative, simply serve the chicken and sauce over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice – it’s equally delicious and satisfying. You could even experiment with different proteins; shrimp or pork tenderloin medallions would also be divine in this lush sauce. Don’t be afraid to play around with the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences or whatever fresh produce you have on hand; the possibilities are truly endless, and each variation will bring its own unique charm.</p>
<p>Now it’s your turn! I genuinely hope that reading through this recipe has inspired you to step into your kitchen and create this phenomenal dish for yourself and your loved ones. There’s something truly special about preparing a meal from scratch that brings smiles to faces and warmth to hearts. Don’t let the idea of a ‘cream sauce’ intimidate you; I promise, with the steps I’ve outlined, you’ll find it incredibly achievable and deeply rewarding. Once you’ve cooked your own batch of this glorious <strong>Mozzarella Chicken In Basil Cream Sauce</strong>, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you stick to the recipe, or did you add your own creative twist? How did your family react? Please, share your stories, your triumphs, and even your questions in the comments below. Better yet, snap a photo of your magnificent creation and share it with us – I can’t wait to see your culinary masterpieces! Your feedback not only brightens my day but also helps others in our wonderful cooking community discover new favorites. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite chicken dish. Happy cooking, everyone!</p>
Creamy Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Imagine a dish so rich, aromatic, and satisfying that it instantly becomes a weeknight hero or a special occasion showstopper. This Creamy Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce delivers on every front, combining succulent chicken, velvety basil cream sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella for an explosion of flavor.
Ingredients
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4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (6-8 oz each)
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1/2 Cup All-Purpose Flour
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1 Teaspoon Salt, divided
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1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper, divided
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1 Teaspoon Dried Italian Seasoning
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2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
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2 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
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1 Small Shallot, finely minced
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3-4 Cloves Garlic, minced
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1 1/2 Cups Chicken Broth (total, replacing wine option)
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1 1/2 Cups Heavy Cream
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1/2 Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
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1/2 Cup Fresh Basil Leaves, roughly chopped
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1 Cup Fresh Mozzarella (sliced, torn, or shredded)
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Optional Garnish: Fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
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Step 1
Pound chicken breasts to 1/2-3/4 inch thickness. In a shallow dish, combine flour, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dredge chicken in flour mixture, shaking off excess. -
Step 2
Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear floured chicken breasts for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside, leaving fond in the pan. -
Step 3
Reduce heat to medium, add remaining 1 tbsp butter to skillet. Sauté minced shallot for 2-3 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cook for 1 minute until fragrant. -
Step 4
Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth to deglaze, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until reduced by half. -
Step 5
Stir in remaining 1 cup chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with remaining 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper. -
Step 6
Stir in chopped fresh basil. Return seared chicken to the skillet, nestling into the sauce. Top chicken with mozzarella. Cover and cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes until chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C) and mozzarella is melted and bubbly. Optionally, broil briefly for golden cheese. -
Step 7
Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with extra basil and Parmesan, if desired, before serving.
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.
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