Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce | Easy One-Skillet Dinner Bursting with Flavor

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is the perfect blend of rich, creamy comfort and fresh, herby brightness. Tender, pan-seared chicken breasts are smothered in a luscious basil-infused cream sauce and topped with gooey melted mozzarella—it’s pure elegance made easy. I tried this recipe using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and it still turned out beautifully rich but slightly lighter. The combination of savory chicken, aromatic basil, and creamy mozzarella makes this dish ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Serve it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of the luxurious sauce.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe. Pound them evenly for quick, even cooking and a tender texture.

Mozzarella cheese – Fresh or shredded mozzarella adds a mild, creamy richness that melts perfectly over the chicken.

Basil leaves – Fresh basil is the star of the sauce, bringing a fragrant, slightly peppery flavor that complements the creaminess beautifully.

Heavy cream – This creates the smooth, velvety base of the sauce. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.

Garlic – Minced garlic enhances the savory depth and aromatic quality of the sauce.

Butter – Used to sear the chicken and sauté the garlic, adding flavor and richness.

Olive oil – Helps achieve a golden sear on the chicken while keeping it moist.

Chicken broth – Adds depth to the sauce and balances the cream’s richness.

Parmesan cheese – A small amount of grated Parmesan sharpens the flavor of the sauce and thickens it slightly.

Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce.

Crushed red pepper flakes – Optional, for a hint of heat to balance the creamy flavors.

Directions

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Add the chopped fresh basil and stir until evenly incorporated. Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and sprinkle each piece with mozzarella cheese. Cover the pan and cook for another 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve warm with extra basil leaves for garnish.

Equipment needed

• Large skillet
• Spatula or tongs
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater (for cheese)

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking requires around 25 minutes, totaling 35 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, adding a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.

Variations and Customizations

Tomato Basil Twist – Add a handful of chopped sun-dried tomatoes or cherry tomatoes for a tangy, colorful variation.

Spinach Addition – Stir fresh spinach into the sauce just before serving for added greens and texture.

Garlic Mushroom Cream Sauce – Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for a deeper, earthier flavor.

Pesto Infusion – Add a tablespoon of basil pesto to the cream sauce for a richer basil flavor and vibrant green hue.

Cheese Lovers’ Dream – Combine mozzarella with provolone or fontina for an extra gooey melt.

Low-Carb Option – Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.

Lemon Basil Sauce – Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce for a bright, refreshing twist.

Crispy Finish – Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and broil for a golden crust.

Herb Blend Upgrade – Mix in parsley, thyme, or oregano for more aromatic depth.

Spicy Cream Sauce – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for extra heat.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless thighs work well and stay tender and juicy in the creamy sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and sauce separately, then combine and reheat before serving.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil gives the best flavor, but you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil in a pinch.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer longer or add a bit more Parmesan cheese to achieve a thicker consistency.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut cream and dairy-free mozzarella alternatives.

What’s the best way to melt the mozzarella evenly?

Cover the skillet with a lid for a few minutes to let steam melt the cheese gently.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the cream for extra depth.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low after adding the cream and avoid boiling.

Can I freeze this dish?

Cream sauces don’t freeze well, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a dish that perfectly balances comfort and sophistication. The tender chicken, creamy sauce, and aromatic basil create a restaurant-quality meal that’s simple enough for any home cook. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for two or a family meal, this recipe guarantees rich flavor and beautiful presentation. Serve it with your favorite side, enjoy the silky sauce, and savor each bite of this elegant, satisfying dish.