Name: Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved to make 4 cutlets); ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup chicken broth; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

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Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken cutlets with a rich, flavorful sauce. The melted mozzarella and fresh basil add a perfect touch, making it a great choice for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The image shows three grilled chicken breasts placed close together on a white plate, covered with a creamy, pale yellow sauce that has visible green herbs mixed in. The chicken breasts have a light brown, slightly charred texture with small black pepper dots, giving them a cooked and juicy look. The sauce pools around the base of the chicken, with some herbs sprinkled on top, giving the dish a rich and creamy appearance. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved to make 4 cutlets)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a hint of heat)
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create four even cutlets. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 2: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 3: Place a slice of mozzarella on each chicken cutlet, cover the pan briefly until the cheese melts, then transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 5: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 6: Add chopped fresh basil and stir to combine.
Step 7: Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet and spoon sauce over each piece. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 8: Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
Add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
Use fresh mozzarella for the best melt and flavor.
If you prefer spicier dishes, increase the crushed red pepper flakes.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to prevent the sauce from separating. For best results, add a splash of cream or broth when reheating.

How to Serve

Two pieces of grilled chicken breast with a golden brown and slightly charred texture are placed side by side in a white bowl. Each piece is covered with a creamy, light green sauce that has visible chopped herbs mixed in, giving it a textured look. The sauce pools around the chicken at the bottom of the bowl, showing a smooth, slightly thick consistency with more herb pieces scattered throughout. On top of each chicken piece, there are fresh basil leaves with a glossy, deep green color, adding a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, enhancing the fresh and clean presentation. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and stay juicy. Adjust cooking time as needed since thighs may take a bit longer.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy-free cheese alternatives and use coconut milk or another plant-based cream, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly from the original.