Creamy Basil Mozzarella Chicken Dinner Delight 🍗🧀🌿
1. Introduction
If you’re looking for a decadent and flavorful chicken dish, the mozzarella chicken recipe is the perfect choice. Known for its rich, creamy basil sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, this basil chicken dish is an irresistible dinner option that everyone will love. Easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavors, it’s an excellent way to elevate your weekly meal plan.
2. Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: cherry tomatoes or additional basil for garnish
3. How to Make Creamy Basil Mozzarella Chicken
Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Once cooked, set aside.
Make the Basil Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Mix in chopped basil and let the sauce thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Melt the Mozzarella
Lower the heat and sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken breasts. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil until the cheese melts and becomes gooey. For an extra cheesy touch, you can add more mozzarella on top before serving.
Bring It All Together
Gently spoon the basil cream sauce over the mozzarella chicken and garnish with fresh basil leaves or cherry tomatoes for a burst of color. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
4. Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the mozzarella chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warm. To keep the mozzarella gooey, reheat on low heat or in the microwave for short intervals.
5. Serving Suggestions
This creamy basil mozzarella chicken pairs beautifully with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. For a more filling meal, serve with garlic bread or mashed potatoes. Want to add some extra flavor? Top with freshly grated parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
For kitchen tools that help make this dish easier, consider the CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set for effortless cooking and cleanup, or explore the Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 for crispy sides to complement your meal.
6. FAQs about Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Can I substitute the mozzarella cheese?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other melting cheeses like provolone, Monterey Jack, or fontina for a different flavor profile.
Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely. Just ensure that the seasonings and any add-ins are gluten-free. This dish naturally contains no gluten.
How long does it take to prepare and cook?
With prep and cooking, this chicken in basil cream sauce recipe takes approximately 30-40 minutes from start to finish.
7. External Kitchen Tools that You Might Need for This Recipe
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: Make cooking and cleanup a breeze with this high-quality set that ensures your mozzarella cheese chicken doesn’t stick or burn.
- Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1: Perfect for crispy garlic bread or roasted vegetables to serve alongside your basil chicken dish.
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker: Refreshing beverages like sparkling water or infused lemon water elevate your dinner experience.
8. Tips for the Perfect Basil Chicken Dish
- Use fresh basil for a vibrant, aromatic flavor. Dried basil can be substituted but may result in a less intense basil taste.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and juiciness.
- For a creamier sauce, add a splash of grated parmesan or a dollop of cream at the end.
9. Conclusion
The mozzarella chicken in basil cream sauce is a delightful dinner option that combines decadence with simplicity. Its rich, cheesy flavor and aromatic basil notes make it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking a family dinner or entertaining guests, this basil chicken dish is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home!
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Creamy Basil Mozzarella Chicken Dinner Delight
A luscious chicken dish topped with melted mozzarella and bathed in a flavorful basil cream sauce, perfect for a comforting yet elegant dinner.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 4 minutes per side.
- Place seared chicken in a baking dish.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and cook until fragrant, then stir in heavy cream and basil. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour basil cream sauce over chicken and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake in the oven until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 20 minutes.
- Garnish with additional basil leaves before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Baking, Searing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Healthy
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 420 Kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 125mg