Name: Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired Fusion
Ingredients: 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (680–900 g total); 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2–3 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream; ½ cup (120 ml) low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil leaves; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 150–200 g shredded whole-milk mozzarella cheese

Jump to Recipe

Ever had one of those days where you just want dinner to feel like a warm hug? That’s exactly what this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce delivers. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table without a fuss, and makes you look like a kitchen rockstar (even if you’re secretly in yoga pants with your hair in a bun).

We’re talking tender chicken breasts seared until golden, then bathed in a luscious basil cream sauce and blanketed in melty mozzarella. It checks every comfort food box while still feeling just a little fancy. Best of all? It comes together in about 30 minutes—so you can go from “what’s for dinner?” to this is amazing faster than you can say “cheesy chicken dish.”

Why You’ll Love This Mozzarella Chicken Basil Cream Recipe

Quick and easy (30 minutes, start to finish!)
Crowd-pleasing flavor: garlicky, herby, creamy, cheesy
Perfect for a weeknight or casual dinner party
It’s a cozy meal that feels indulgent, without being heavy

Ingredients You’ll Need

3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (680–900 g total)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
2–3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
½ cup (120 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
2 tbsp chopped fresh basil leaves
1 tsp Italian seasoning
150–200 g shredded whole-milk mozzarella cheese

How to Make This Cheesy Chicken Dish

Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Sear to golden perfection: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temp). Remove chicken and set aside.
Flavor boost: Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped garlic to the same pan and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Keep stirring—burnt garlic is a crime.
Deglaze and simmer: Pour in chicken broth and scrape up all those flavorful bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for about a minute.
Make that basil cream sauce: Stir in heavy cream, chopped basil, and Italian seasoning. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Cheese, please: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon a bit of sauce over each piece. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top. Cover and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve it up: Spoon extra sauce over each chicken breast and garnish with fresh basil if you’re feeling fancy.

Tips for the Perfect Basil Cream Sauce

Use fresh basil! Dried works in a pinch, but nothing beats the real deal for that sweet, peppery flavor.
For ultra-tender chicken, pound the breasts to even thickness before cooking.
Don’t skip scraping up the brown bits after searing the chicken—that’s pure flavor gold.
If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or even milk to loosen it up.

And yes, licking the spoon is totally allowed.

A Dinner That Became a Family Favorite

This recipe has a sweet little backstory. I first made it on a chilly Sunday evening when I needed something comforting, but I didn’t want another heavy casserole. My youngest took one bite and declared it “pizza chicken” (not wrong!), and it’s been on rotation ever since.

It’s become our go-to when we want something cozy that still feels a little special. The aroma of basil and garlic swirling through the kitchen? That’s the smell of home in my book.

What to Serve with Mozzarella Chicken Basil Cream

Round out this cozy meal with sides that complement the creamy, cheesy richness:

Buttered noodles or mashed potatoes (to soak up that dreamy sauce)
Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli
A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
Crusty bread or dinner rolls
A crisp glass of Chardonnay or a bubbly sparkling water with lime

Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting a casual dinner, it all works beautifully.

How to Store Leftovers (If You Have Any!)

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.
Avoid freezing if possible—cream sauces can separate, and nobody wants a grainy surprise.

This one’s just as tasty the next day, especially spooned over rice or tucked into a wrap for lunch.

FAQs About This Family Dinner Recipe

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked through.

Is this basil cream sauce kid-friendly?

Definitely. The flavors are mild and creamy, and you can skip the garlic or reduce it for picky eaters.

Can I make it ahead of time?

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

Can I use store-bought shredded cheese?

Sure, but shredding your own mozzarella melts more smoothly and tastes richer.

Let This Cosy Meal Become a Weekly Staple

Mozzarella Chicken Basil Cream is the kind of dinner that feels like a reward at the end of a long day. It’s a dish that wraps you up in cheesy, garlicky goodness and makes every bite feel like home.

So go ahead—bookmark this one. Whether it’s a Monday meltdown or a Friday night in, this recipe is here to turn your dinner routine into something deliciously memorable.

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