There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken, melted mozzarella, and a velvety herb-infused sauce. My love affair with Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce began during a summer trip to Italy’s Amalfi Coast. In a tiny trattoria overlooking the Mediterranean, I first tasted this sublime dish that perfectly balances rich creaminess with bright, herbaceous notes.
The elderly chef, Maria, noticed my enthusiasm and invited me into her kitchen the following day. There, among hanging bunches of basil and the intoxicating aroma of simmering garlic, she showed me how to create this masterpiece. Now, years later, I’m sharing my version of this recipe with you—one that captures the essence of that sun-drenched Italian kitchen while being accessible enough for a weeknight dinner.
This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce has become my go-to dish for everything from family dinners to impressive date nights. The best part? It comes together in just 30 minutes but tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish hits all the right notes for home cooks looking to elevate their chicken dinner game:
- Restaurant-Quality Results: Creates a dish worthy of your favorite Italian bistro
- Weeknight Friendly: Ready in about 30 minutes
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required
- Versatile: Pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or vegetables
- Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters love this creamy, cheesy combination
- Impressive Presentation: Looks as good as it tastes—perfect for entertaining
The combination of melted mozzarella, fresh basil, and a silky cream sauce transforms ordinary chicken breasts into something extraordinary. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks will have everyone asking “what’s for dinner?” well before you call them to the table.
Ingredients for Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into 8 pieces
For the Basil Cream Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely diced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Prepare the chicken breasts: If they’re very thick, butterfly them or pound them to an even thickness of about ¾ inch. This ensures even cooking.
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
Making the Basil Cream Sauce
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet (no need to clean it), reduce heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and diced shallot. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and softened, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Create the sauce base: Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (that’s flavor!). Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Add the cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken slightly.
- Incorporate the cheese and basil: Reduce heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Add the chopped basil and stir to combine. If you’d like a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry now and simmer for another minute.
- Season to taste: Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.
Bringing It All Together
- Return chicken to the skillet: Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet with the sauce.
- Add the mozzarella: Top each chicken breast with 2 slices of fresh mozzarella.
- Melt the cheese: Cover the skillet with a lid or transfer to a preheated 375°F oven for 3-5 minutes, until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with additional fresh basil and serve immediately.
Tips, Variations, and Serving Suggestions
Pro Tips
- Room temperature chicken: Take your chicken out of the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before cooking for more even cooking.
- Don’t rush the searing: A good golden crust on the chicken adds tremendous flavor.
- Fresh is best: Use fresh mozzarella and basil for the most authentic flavor.
- Save some pasta water: If serving with pasta, reserve ½ cup of pasta cooking water to thin the sauce if needed.
Variations
- Sun-dried tomato twist: Add ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a tangy kick.
- Spinach addition: Stir in 2 cups fresh spinach when returning the chicken to the skillet for added color and nutrition.
- Mushroom lover’s version: Sauté 8 oz of sliced mushrooms with the garlic and shallots.
- Lighter option: Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream (though the sauce won’t be quite as rich).
- Herb variations: Try fresh thyme or tarragon instead of (or in addition to) the basil.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect pairings: Serve over angel hair pasta, with crusty bread for sauce-sopping, or alongside roasted vegetables.
- Wine pairing: Enjoy with a glass of Pinot Grigio or light Chardonnay.
- Complete the meal: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette makes a perfect starter.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 44g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fiber: 1g
You Need This Mozzarella Chicken in Your Life!
This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. One that transforms ordinary ingredients into something truly special. The combination of crispy-edged chicken, melty mozzarella, and that velvety basil-infused sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds.
What I love most about sharing this recipe is knowing that it will create moments of joy around dinner tables just like it has at mine. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching someone take that first bite and seeing their eyes light up with pleasure.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply elevating a Wednesday night, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results with home-cooked love. So grab those chicken breasts, pick some fresh basil, and prepare to create a little Italian magic in your kitchen tonight.
Don’t forget to snap a photo of your creation before it disappears—because trust me, this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce vanishes quickly!
