Okay, flavor adventurers, get ready to lose your minds! I was at this little Italian place down in Little Havana, right? Expecting the usual – good, but nothing earth-shattering. Then BAM! This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce hit my tongue and I swear, I saw fireworks. It was creamy, it was basil-y, it was pure freakin’ magic.
I knew right then I HAD to recreate this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce for you guys. It took a few tries (let’s just say some batches were…less than Queen-worthy), but I finally cracked the code. We’re talking succulent chicken breasts swimming in a luscious basil cream sauce, blanketed with gooey, melty mozzarella.
This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is what Cuba Queen is all about: bold flavors, easy techniques, and food that makes you wanna dance. Forget boring dinners – this dish is a celebration on a plate! Get ready to transform your kitchen into a flavor fiesta!
INGREDIENTS You Need for This:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: About 6-8 ounces each.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: The good stuff – it makes a difference!
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion: For that sweet, savory base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Don’t skimp – garlic is life!
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Low sodium is my go-to.
- 1 cup heavy cream: THIS is what makes it decadent.
- 1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves: Fresh is non-negotiable for this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth.
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced: Fresh, not the pre-shredded kind!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season like you mean it, flavor adventurers!
- Optional: Red pepper flakes: For a touch of heat – I’m obsessed!
This ingredient list is SHORT but mighty! The secret to truly epic Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is using FRESH basil. Trust me, the dried stuff just doesn’t compare. I promise it will really make the creamy basil chicken recipe shine!
You’ll find the best fresh basil at your local farmers market or even in the produce section of most grocery stores. Make sure the leaves are vibrant green and fragrant. Also, splurge on the fresh mozzarella for this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce. It melts beautifully and tastes incredible.
Budget-friendly tip: if you’re on a tight budget, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, but be warned – it won’t be quite as rich. This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce deserves the richness!
Store any leftover basil in a damp paper towel in the fridge to keep it fresh longer. Prep your garlic and onion ahead of time to save even more time on cooking day!
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
- First, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy! This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is all about bold flavors.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Don’t overcrowd the pan – cook in batches if necessary.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until softened. Now add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. This is where your Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce really starts to come alive!
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Those bits are pure flavor gold, flavor adventurers!
- Stir in the heavy cream, fresh basil leaves, and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. The creamy basil chicken sauce is pure heaven.
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Remember, we’re going for BOLD!
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Top each chicken breast with slices of fresh mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the skillet and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted and gooey. This is where the Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce transforms into pure magic!
- Remove from heat and let it rest for a minute or two before serving. This easy chicken dinner is ready for it’s close up!
Pro tip for Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce perfection: Don’t overcook the chicken! Overcooked chicken is dry and sad. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through but still juicy. This creamy basil chicken recipe is so easy!
Here’s where most people mess up their Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce – they rush the sauce. Give it time to simmer and thicken, allowing the flavors to meld together.
While your Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is working its magic, grab your camera – this is Instagram gold! Trust me, your followers will be drooling. In my kitchen, this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce takes exactly 35 minutes from start to finish.
Your Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce should look creamy, bubbly, and irresistible. The chicken should be cooked through, and the mozzarella should be melted and slightly browned. The aroma of basil and garlic will fill your kitchen – pure bliss!
PRESENTATION:
Presentation is KEY, flavor adventurers! To present this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce for maximum impact, spoon a generous portion of the sauce over each chicken breast. Garnish with a few extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Serve this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or creamy orzo pasta for the ultimate comfort food experience. You could also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad. For a low carb option you could always try cauliflower rice.
People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce at dinner parties! It’s always a hit. This Italian chicken dish absolutely slays at dinner parties! Everyone always asks for the recipe.
This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is also perfect for a romantic date night or a special family dinner. It’s elegant enough for a fancy occasion but easy enough for a weeknight meal.
For an Instagram-worthy plating technique, swirl a little balsamic glaze around the edge of the plate. It adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the richness of the sauce.
Leftovers (if there are any!) are amazing the next day. Just reheat in the microwave or oven. You can even shred the chicken and use it in sandwiches or salads.
For a seasonal variation, try adding sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce in the fall or roasted red peppers in the summer. You could also add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
FAQs:
Can I make this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce spicier?
Abso-freakin-lutely! I encourage it! Add more red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicier type of chili pepper. You could also add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
Okay, okay, I get it – sometimes you’re in a pinch. If you absolutely must use dried basil, use 1 teaspoon for every 1/4 cup of fresh basil. But trust me, it won’t be the same! This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce shines with fresh basil!
How do I know when my Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is perfectly done?
The chicken should be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The sauce should be thickened and creamy, and the mozzarella cheese should be melted and gooey. Dairyofarecipecollector.com has another easy chicken tortellini pasta bake you should try if this sounds delicious.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Sure! Provolone, fontina, or even a smoked mozzarella would be delicious in this dish. Just make sure it’s a cheese that melts well. This mozzarella chicken recipe is versatile.
Can I make this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just add the chicken and mozzarella when you’re ready to cook.
What if my sauce is too thick?
Add a little more chicken broth or heavy cream to thin it out.
What if my sauce is too thin?
Simmer the sauce for a few more minutes, until it thickens to your liking. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken it quickly. Yeyfood.com has a great version of Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce you should check out.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Chicken thighs take longer to cook than chicken breasts.
CONCLUSION:
This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold flavors, simple techniques, and food that makes you feel like royalty. It’s a celebration on a plate, a flavor explosion in every bite.
My Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Power Tips:
- Don’t be afraid to season generously! Salt and pepper are your friends.
- Use fresh basil – it makes all the difference!
- Don’t overcook the chicken! It should be juicy and tender, not dry and tough.
Variations I’ve created and loved:
- Sun-dried tomato Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce: Add 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a tangy, sweet twist.
- Mushroom Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce: Sauté 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms with the onion and garlic for an earthy, savory flavor.
- Spicy Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for a fiery kick.
The sun-dried tomato version always gets the biggest reactions! Try it out – you wont regret it! Foxandbriar.com has a creamy parmesan basil chicken recipe that is similar to this one. Also, if your kids love this recipe, you should check out Foxandbriar.com.
I have complete confidence in your ability to make this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce your signature dish. It’s easy, it’s impressive, and it’s guaranteed to wow your friends and family.
So go ahead, flavor adventurers, and create some memories in your kitchen! Don’t forget to share your results with me – I can’t wait to see your creations! This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a game changer! Also, If this recipe rocks your world, you NEED to try my Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for another flavor explosion! For more bold flavor adventures, check out my Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice and my Creamy Chicken Roll-Ups. Let’s turn every meal into a freakin’ fiesta!
Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is an easy and elegant weeknight meal. Tender chicken breasts are pan-seared and smothered in a luscious basil cream sauce, then topped with melted mozzarella for a truly unforgettable dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in basil and Parmesan cheese.
- Return chicken breasts to the skillet. Top each chicken breast with mozzarella slices.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until mozzarella is melted.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Serve over pasta or rice for a complete meal. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.