Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is like a warm hug from an Italian grandmother—comforting, flavorful, and utterly irresistible. Picture tender chicken bathed in a velvety basil cream sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella that melts into a delightful pool of cheesy goodness. As the aroma wafts through your kitchen, you’ll find it hard to resist sneaking a spoonful (or three) before dinner even begins.
Imagine gathering around the dinner table, laughter echoing as everyone digs into this culinary masterpiece. Whether it’s a cozy family night or an elegant dinner party, this dish will be the star of the show, leaving everyone clamoring for seconds. Get ready for your taste buds to dance with joy!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with flavor that transports you straight to Italy
- The visually stunning presentation makes it perfect for impressing guests at any gathering
- Versatile enough for any occasion, this dish pairs beautifully with pasta or crusty bread to soak up that creamy sauce
Ingredients for Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts but feel free to adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; they really elevate the dish.
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Fresh Basil: The star herb in this recipe; opt for vibrant green leaves that are aromatic and fragrant.
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Heavy Cream: This adds richness and helps create that luscious sauce everyone will rave about.
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melty goodness is essential; go for high-quality cheese for the best results.
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for cooking; its flavor enhances each ingredient beautifully.
For the Sauce:
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while still packing in flavor.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together—don’t skimp on these!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients so you’re ready to go. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season both sides of your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the hot skillet. Sear each side for about five minutes until golden brown.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about one minute). Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; stir well and let it simmer gently.
Step 4: Incorporate Flavors
Add chopped fresh basil into your sauce mixture and stir until well combined. Let it cook for another five minutes so those flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Assemble
Return the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet with sauce. Top each piece generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 6: Bake
Transfer everything into your preheated oven and bake for about twenty minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite of this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce—it’s pure comfort on a plate!
You Must Know
- This delightful mozzarella chicken in basil cream sauce combines rich flavors and a creamy texture that elevates any meal
- Perfect for impressing guests, this dish is an instant crowd-pleaser
- Plus, it requires minimal effort, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect mozzarella chicken in basil cream sauce, start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While the chicken cooks, prepare your pasta or rice as a base. Finally, mix up that luscious cream sauce to tie everything together beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your mozzarella chicken in basil cream sauce! Swap out mozzarella for provolone or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. Fresh herbs like oregano or thyme can also amp up the taste profile to suit your preferences.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers of your mozzarella chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove to keep that creamy texture intact. Add a splash of milk if needed to revive the sauce.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always pat your chicken dry before searing to get that perfect golden crust
- Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; this ensures even cooking and browning
- Lastly, let the dish rest before serving; it allows flavors to meld beautifully
The first time I made mozzarella chicken in basil cream sauce, my friends declared me a culinary genius! Little did they know I was just following a recipe – but hey, who doesn’t love a good surprise?
FAQs:
What is Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce?
Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken breasts with creamy basil-infused sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This recipe highlights the flavors of fresh basil and garlic, creating a rich and aromatic experience. It is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasions, offering both comfort and elegance on your table.
How do I make the sauce for Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce?
To prepare the sauce for Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce, start by sautéing minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Next, add heavy cream and fresh basil, letting it simmer to thicken. Season with salt and pepper for added flavor. Once the chicken is cooked through, pour the sauce over it, then top with mozzarella cheese before baking until bubbly and golden.
Can I use different cheeses for this recipe?
Yes, while mozzarella is the classic choice for Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce, you can experiment with other cheeses. Try using provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, mixing mozzarella with Parmesan can add depth to the dish. Just ensure that any cheese you choose melts well to create that creamy texture.
What sides pair well with Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce?
Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it over pasta like fettuccine or linguine to soak up the creamy sauce. Additionally, steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad can balance the richness of the dish. For a heartier option, garlic bread makes an excellent companion to complement this flavorful meal.
Conclusion for Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce:
In summary, Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a delightful combination of flavors that elevates any dinner table. With its creamy texture and aromatic basil notes, this dish promises satisfaction with every bite. The recipe is easy to prepare and versatile enough to adapt to personal tastes or dietary preferences. Enjoy this comforting meal alongside your favorite sides for a complete dining experience that everyone will love!
Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a delectable Italian dish that features tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy basil-infused sauce, topped with melty mozzarella cheese. Perfect for both family dinners and special gatherings, this recipe boasts rich flavors that will impress your guests. Pair it with pasta or crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the luscious sauce. Indulge in this comforting meal that’s as delightful to prepare as it is to enjoy.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper; sear for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth and heavy cream; simmer gently.
- Stir in chopped basil and cook for 5 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot with sauce drizzled over the top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (150g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
