Name: Basil Cream Mozzarella Chicken: A Delicious & Easy Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup packed fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste); Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional); 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced; Fresh basil leaves; Red pepper flakes

Basil Cream Mozzarella Chicken: Prepare to be transported to a sun-drenched Italian trattoria with every single bite! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce infused with the bright, herbaceous notes of fresh basil and the delicate melt of mozzarella. This isn't just dinner; it's an experience.

While the exact origins of this particular combination are somewhat modern, the inspiration draws heavily from classic Italian cuisine. Basil, a staple in Mediterranean cooking, has been cherished for centuries for its aromatic qualities and health benefits. Paired with creamy sauces, a technique perfected by Italian chefs, and the beloved mozzarella, a cheese that embodies Italian culinary tradition, this dish is a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, high-quality ingredients.

What makes Basil Cream Mozzarella Chicken so irresistible? It's the symphony of flavors and textures. The creamy sauce, rich and decadent, perfectly complements the lean protein of the chicken. The fresh basil adds a vibrant, peppery note that cuts through the richness, while the mozzarella provides a delightful, slightly salty, and satisfyingly gooey finish. But beyond the taste, it's also incredibly convenient. This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight meal that feels anything but ordinary. I know you'll love how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Basil Cream Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup packed fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Mozzarella Topping:

8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

Optional Garnishes:

Fresh basil leaves
Red pepper flakes

Preparing the Chicken:

First, let's get our chicken ready! Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. This is our simple but flavorful spice rub.
Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing lightly to help it adhere. Make sure every part of the chicken is covered for maximum flavor!

Cooking the Chicken:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the skillet to be nice and hot before adding the chicken.
Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Don't overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook them in batches. Overcrowding will lower the pan temperature and the chicken will steam instead of sear.
Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it's golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure!
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Tent it with foil to keep it warm while we make the sauce.

Making the Basil Cream Sauce:

Now for the star of the show – the basil cream sauce! In the same skillet (don't wipe it out – those browned bits are flavor gold!), melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
Pour in the dry white wine and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This process is called deglazing, and it adds a ton of flavor to the sauce.
Add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine.
Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. I usually add a little extra Parmesan for a richer flavor!

Assembling and Baking:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet with the basil cream sauce. Make sure the chicken is nestled nicely in the sauce.
Arrange the sliced fresh mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken breasts. Don't be shy – the more mozzarella, the better!
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted and bubbly and lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Serving:

Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. The skillet will be very hot, so use oven mitts!
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and red pepper flakes (if desired).
Serve the Basil Cream Mozzarella Chicken immediately. It's delicious with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Tips and Variations:

Chicken Thighs: You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the chicken breasts. They will take a little longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a burst of flavor.
Spinach: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.
Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms in the skillet before adding the garlic for a heartier sauce.
Different Cheese: Try using provolone or fontina cheese instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicier kick.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to use gluten-free chicken broth.
Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese alternative. The mozzarella will be harder to substitute, but you can try a dairy-free melting cheese.
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble and bake just before serving.
Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including:
- Pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or penne)
- Rice (white, brown, or wild rice)
- Roasted vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts)
- Mashed potatoes
- A simple green salad
- Crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce

Enjoy your delicious Basil Cream Mozzarella Chicken! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Basil Cream Mozzarella Chicken isn't just another chicken recipe; it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen! From the fragrant basil cream sauce that clings lovingly to every piece of tender chicken, to the gooey, melted mozzarella that adds a touch of decadence, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it elevates a simple weeknight meal into something truly special, without requiring hours of slaving away in the kitchen. It's the perfect balance of comfort food and sophisticated flavors, making it suitable for both casual dinners and more formal gatherings. But the best part? It's incredibly versatile! Serve it over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta – linguine or fettuccine work particularly well to capture all that delicious sauce. Alternatively, for a lighter option, try serving it alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette would also complement the richness of the chicken beautifully. Looking for variations? You've got plenty of options! If you're feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick. For a richer flavor, try using heavy cream instead of half-and-half. And if you're a mushroom lover, sauté some sliced mushrooms with the garlic before adding the other sauce ingredients – they'll add an earthy depth that's simply divine. You could also experiment with different types of cheese. Provolone or fontina would be delicious alternatives to mozzarella, each offering a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Basil Cream Mozzarella Chicken

* Pasta Perfection: Toss with your favorite pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or penne are excellent choices). * Veggie Delight: Serve alongside roasted asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini. * Salad Sensation: Pair with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. * Bread Basket: Offer crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Variations to Explore

* Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. * Rich Indulgence: Use heavy cream instead of half-and-half. * Mushroom Magic: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic. * Cheese Swap: Experiment with provolone or fontina cheese. I'm so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Basil Cream Mozzarella Chicken for yourself. It's a dish that's close to my heart, and I'm confident it will become a staple in your kitchen too. Don't be afraid to get creative and adapt it to your own tastes. Cooking should be fun and experimental! Once you've given it a go, I'd absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you'll love. So, go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get cooking! I can't wait to see what culinary masterpieces you create. Happy cooking!