Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug with a little bit of gourmet flair, you’re in the right place. This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is the kind of recipe that turns simple ingredients into an irresistible meal. The chicken gets a beautiful golden crust, topped with gooey mozzarella that melts just right. Then it’s all bathed in a silky, herbaceous basil cream sauce that’s rich but fresh, comforting yet light. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners or anytime you want to impress without the stress.

Why You’ll Love Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Versatile: Works as a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat. Imagine pulling this out when guests arrive or when you want to spoil yourself with something fabulous.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples plus fresh basil and mozzarella—simple, affordable, and totally satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and straightforward steps make this dish beginner-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
Customizable: Spice it up with red pepper flakes or keep it mellow for the kids—totally up to you.
Crowd-Pleasing: The creamy sauce and melty cheese are sure to win over even picky eaters.

Ingredients in Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Chicken Cutlets: Tender boneless, skinless breasts seasoned perfectly for flavor and a little smoky warmth from paprika.
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh slices that melt beautifully over the golden chicken.
Basil Cream Sauce: A luscious blend of heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan, garlic, and fresh basil, with just the right hint of Italian herbs and optional red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this creamy, cheesy delight:

Prepare Chicken

Season chicken cutlets evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika—this builds a delicious flavor base.

Cook Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side. Top each cutlet with a slice of mozzarella, cover the skillet, and let that cheese melt into gooey perfection.

Make Sauce

Using the same skillet, sauté minced garlic briefly to wake up those flavors. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens just right.

Add Basil

Stir in fresh chopped basil right before serving to keep that bright, fresh flavor popping.

Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the basil cream sauce generously over the mozzarella-topped chicken and get ready for some serious comfort-food vibes.

How to Serve Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully.
Garlic Bread: Toasty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that luscious sauce.
Roasted Veggies: Think asparagus, zucchini, or green beans to add color and texture.
As a Main Event: This dish stands proudly on its own for a satisfying dinner.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: Season your chicken earlier in the day to deepen flavor.
Spice It Up: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky, spicy twist.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep the sauce silky.
Double the Batch: Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Adjust cooking times if needed.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of slices?
A1: Absolutely! Shredded mozzarella will melt nicely and evenly over the chicken.

Q2: Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter option?
A2: You can use half-and-half or a creamy milk alternative, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich or thick.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken without sauce for up to 2 months. Add fresh sauce when reheating.

Q5: What’s the best pan to use?
A5: A heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan works beautifully to sear chicken and build flavor.

Conclusion

There you go — your new go-to for cheesy, creamy, basil-kissed comfort! The Tuscan Velvet Mozzarella Chicken will elevate your dinner game with its perfect balance of fresh herbs, melty cheese, and rich sauce. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress, making it a must-try. Give it a whirl, and I promise you’ll be coming back for seconds!

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