Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe
A rich and creamy Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection, simmered in a fragrant basil and garlic-infused cream sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. This dish is perfect for a comforting, Italian-inspired dinner.
- Author: Cleo
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying and simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Salt
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 cup shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
- Prep Ingredients: Chop the garlic cloves finely and roughly chop the fresh basil leaves to prepare for the sauce.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden-brown crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté briefly for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Create Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine with the garlic and pan drippings. Add the Italian seasoning and chopped basil leaves. Let the sauce simmer gently for several minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Melt Cheese: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some sauce over them. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely and the chicken to warm through.
- Serve: Serve the Mozzarella Chicken hot, ideally paired with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Fresh mozzarella can be used instead of shredded for a creamier texture, but it will take longer to melt.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 1.5 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg
Keywords: Mozzarella Chicken, Basil Cream Sauce, Italian Chicken Recipe, Creamy Chicken, Basil Chicken, Quick Dinner