Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
If you’re craving a creamy, indulgent chicken dish that’s loaded with flavor and guaranteed to impress, this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is your new go-to recipe. With melty mozzarella, a rich and herbaceous basil cream sauce, and juicy pan-seared chicken, this dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and elegant dining. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, entertaining guests, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
This recipe is ideal for anyone who loves Italian-inspired cuisine but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s quick enough for a busy evening but sophisticated enough to serve at a dinner party. Best of all, it’s highly versatile — pair it with pasta, rice, crusty bread, or even spiralized vegetables for a lower-carb option.
Let’s dive into this rich, creamy, and undeniably satisfying dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Restaurant-quality at home – The mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses create a luxurious sauce that tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen.
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Easy to make – You only need one skillet and less than 30 minutes.
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Customizable – Make it spicy, herby, cheesy, or keto-friendly with simple tweaks.
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Family-friendly – Adults and kids alike love the creamy texture and mild flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
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2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved to make 4 cutlets)
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon paprika
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon butter
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4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
For the Basil Cream Sauce:
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup chicken broth
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3 cloves garlic (minced)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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¼ cup fresh basil (chopped)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Large skillet or sauté pan
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Cutting board and knife
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Tongs or spatula
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Grater (if using fresh Parmesan)
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Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This blend adds depth without overpowering the other flavors.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil prevents the butter from burning, while the butter adds richness.
Sear the chicken for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp should reach 165°F). Once cooked, top each piece with a slice of mozzarella cheese, cover the pan, and let the cheese melt to perfection. Set the chicken aside on a plate.
Step 2: Make the Basil Cream Sauce
In the same skillet (don’t wash it — those browned bits = flavor!), add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up the fond with a spatula. Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in chopped fresh basil at the end for that fresh, vibrant flavor.
Step 3: Combine & Serve
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon that luscious sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Serve hot and spoon extra sauce over your base of choice — pasta, rice, or even a warm hunk of sourdough bread.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
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Butterfly the chicken breasts to make even cutlets, which cook faster and more evenly.
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Use fresh mozzarella for better melt and flavor than shredded or block versions.
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Want it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
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Lower the calories by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream (though the sauce will be thinner).
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Add veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra nutrition and texture.
Recipe Variations
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Keto-Friendly Version: Serve over cauliflower rice or steamed veggies and ensure you’re using a low-carb chicken broth.
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Caprese Style: Add halved cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
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Basil Pesto Twist: Stir a tablespoon of pesto into the cream sauce for extra herby richness.
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Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with turkey cutlets or even firm tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option.
What to Serve with Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
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Starches: Fettuccine, linguine, mashed potatoes, or garlic butter rice
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Veggies: Roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or a simple side salad
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Bread: Crusty baguette, garlic bread, or focaccia to soak up every drop of sauce
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Wine Pairing: A crisp Pinot Grigio or buttery Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Tips:
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Stovetop: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
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Microwave: Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.
Avoid freezing, as cream-based sauces tend to separate when thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the chicken and sauce separately and store in the fridge. Combine and reheat before serving.
Q: What can I use instead of fresh basil?
A: While fresh basil gives the best flavor, you can use 1 tablespoon of dried basil in a pinch.
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-searing?
A: Absolutely. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, then add the mozzarella and broil for a minute or two to melt.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your chicken broth and cheese are certified gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is more than just a meal — it’s an experience. Creamy, savory, and soul-satisfying, it brings a touch of restaurant luxury to your everyday kitchen. Whether you’re hosting friends or feeding picky eaters, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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