Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream

A rich, creamy skillet dinner, Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream blends juicy pan-seared chicken with a velvety garlic-basil sauce and gooey melted mozzarella. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or date-night dinners, ready in about 30 minutes. With each bite, you’ll taste comfort, freshness, and indulgence—without the fuss. 

It all started on a Sunday evening, when the fridge was running low and all I had were a few chicken breasts, some fresh basil from my windowsill garden, a half pint of cream, and a block of mozzarella I’d forgotten about. With little more than curiosity and a growling stomach, I threw them all together in one skillet. What came out was a creamy, herby, cheesy dream—comfort food that felt fancy without the fuss. After one bite, my family fell silent. Not in disappointment, but in awe. That was the night “boring chicken” got a major glow-up. 

Now, this recipe is a go-to for everything from weeknight dinners to impromptu get-togethers with friends. Whether you’re craving something indulgent, cooking to impress, or just need a reason to use up that basil plant before it bolts, this dish has your name on it. In the next sections, I’ll walk you through exactly how to make it, share some secret tips, and help you serve it like a pro—even if it’s just for yourself (hey, you deserve it!). 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe 

• It’s ready in under 40 minutes – Perfect for weeknights when you want something home-cooked without spending all evening in the kitchen. 

• Rich, creamy, and cheesy – The basil cream sauce is velvety smooth and pairs perfectly with the golden-seared chicken and melty mozzarella on top. 

• Simple ingredients, huge flavor – You probably already have everything you need in your fridge and pantry. 

• Family-approved and dinner-party ready – It’s elegant enough to serve guests, but comforting enough for picky eaters and kids. 

• One-pan magic – Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your evening (and fewer dishes to dread). 

• Customizable to your cravings – Want to add tomatoes, spinach, or a touch of spice? Go for it. This dish welcomes your personal twist. 

Ingredients You’ll Need 

Main Ingredients 

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts 

• 1 tablespoon olive oil 

• 2 cloves garlic, minced 

• 1 cup heavy cream 

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese 

• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped 

• Salt and black pepper, to taste 

Optional Add-Ins and Substitutes 

• Sun-dried tomatoes – Add a sweet and tangy twist. 

• Spinach or baby kale – Stir in a handful during the final few minutes for a pop of green. 

• Crushed red pepper flakes – For a little heat, sprinkle into the cream sauce. 

• Chicken thighs – Prefer dark meat? Boneless, skinless thighs work great, just adjust cook time slightly. 

Pro Tip: Grate your own cheeses instead of using pre-shredded ones. Pre-packaged cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. 

How to Make the Recipe (Step-by-Step) 

Step 1: Prep and Flatten the Chicken 

• Take your two large chicken breasts and carefully slice them in half horizontally to create four thinner pieces. 

• Place the chicken between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until evenly thick—about ½ inch. 

Why? Even thickness ensures they cook evenly and sear beautifully. 

Step 2: Season and Sear 

• Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. 

• Season both sides with salt and black pepper (feel free to add a pinch of Italian seasoning or garlic powder for extra flavor). 

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. 

• Sear the chicken for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F). 

• Transfer to a plate and keep warm. 

Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—sear in batches if needed to avoid steaming instead of browning. 

Step 3: Build the Basil Cream Sauce 

• Lower the heat to medium. 

• In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (but not browned!). 

• Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits (hello, flavor!). 

• Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan and let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, until slightly thickened. 

Step 4: Add Basil and Mozzarella 

• Stir in the chopped fresh basil, letting it steep in the warm cream for a burst of flavor. 

• Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. 

• Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella over the chicken pieces. 

• Cover and let cook on low for 2–3 more minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and the sauce coats the chicken beautifully. 

Step 5: Serve and Savor 

• Spoon the creamy basil sauce generously over each piece of chicken. 

• Garnish with a few extra basil leaves or a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. 

• Serve hot with your favorite sides (we’ve got great ideas coming up next!). 

Pro Tips and Variations 

Pro Tips for Success 

• Don’t skip the sear. 
  Browning the chicken adds flavor and creates a golden crust that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. 

• Use fresh basil—not dried. 
  Dried basil just doesn’t deliver the same vibrant, aromatic punch. Fresh leaves give the sauce its signature fragrance and color. 

• Let the cheese melt naturally. 
  Cover the skillet and let the mozzarella melt gently from the steam and residual heat. Rushing this step or overheating it may cause clumping or oil separation. 

• Simmer, don’t boil the sauce. 
  High heat can cause the cream to break or scorch. Keep it at a gentle simmer for a smooth, luxurious texture. 

• Grate your own cheese. 
  Pre-shredded cheeses contain anti-caking agents that interfere with smooth melting. For the silkiest results, go fresh. 

Tasty Variations to Try 

• Add sun-dried tomatoes. 
  For a sweet and tangy contrast, toss in a few chopped sun-dried tomatoes when adding the garlic. 

• Make it spicy. 
  Love a little kick? Stir in ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne. 

• Go low-carb. 
  Skip starchy sides and serve over sautéed zucchini noodles or roasted cauliflower for a keto-friendly option. 

• Try spinach or arugula. 
  Stir in a handful of greens in the last few minutes of cooking. They wilt beautifully into the sauce and add a nutritious touch. 

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts. 
  If you prefer juicier dark meat, boneless, skinless thighs are a flavorful alternative. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure doneness. 

• Swap in basil pesto. 
  If you’re out of fresh basil, add a tablespoon of pesto to the sauce for a similar herby punch with a richer, nuttier undertone. 

Best Side Dishes to Serve With It 

1. Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks 

You’ll want something to mop up that luscious basil cream sauce, and nothing does it better than warm, buttery garlic bread. Want to double down on the cheese? Toast up some mozzarella breadsticks for a flavor match made in heaven. 

2. Buttered Noodles or Fettuccine Alfredo 

Classic pasta sides are a natural partner. Toss fettuccine with a bit of butter or olive oil, or serve with a creamy Alfredo for an extra decadent duo. Just keep portions light—the chicken’s already rich! 

3. Steamed or Roasted Vegetables 

Balance the creaminess with crisp, vibrant veggies like: 

• Roasted asparagus 

• Steamed broccoli 

• Sautéed green beans with lemon and garlic 
  These options add freshness and color while keeping things wholesome. 

4. Herbed Rice Pilaf 

Fluffy rice flavored with garlic, parsley, or lemon zest is a subtle yet satisfying base. It soaks up the basil cream sauce beautifully without stealing the spotlight. 

5. Fresh Garden Salad 

If you’re looking for something light and refreshing, a crisp salad is the way to go. Mix fresh greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple balsamic vinaigrette to cleanse the palate between bites of rich, cheesy chicken. 

6. Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash 

Craving full-on comfort food? Creamy mashed potatoes are a cozy addition. For a low-carb swap, go with garlic cauliflower mash—it’s velvety, flavorful, and won’t weigh you down. 

Tip: When choosing a side, think texture and contrast. Creamy chicken benefits from something crisp, light, or with a little bite to keep your meal balanced and exciting. 

Storage and Reheating 

Storing Leftovers 

• Refrigerate promptly – Allow the chicken to cool slightly, then transfer it to an airtight container. Don’t leave it out for more than 2 hours. 

• Use food-safe containers – Glass or BPA-free plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work best to keep the sauce fresh and prevent leaks. 

• Fridge shelf life – The dish will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. 

Tip: If storing portions separately, spoon some extra sauce over the chicken before sealing the container to keep it moist. 

Freezing for Later 

While cream-based sauces don’t always freeze well, Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream can be frozen with care: 

• Let the dish cool completely. 

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe zip-top bags or containers. 

• Label and date each package. 

• Freeze for up to 2 months. 

Note: The sauce may separate slightly when thawed, but it can be brought back together with gentle stirring over low heat. 

Reheating Tips 

To bring your leftovers back to life without losing their creamy magic, try one of these methods: 

On the Stovetop (Best Method) 

• Place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat. 

• Add a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. 

• Cover and reheat gently, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. 

In the Microwave 

• Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish. 

• Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to retain moisture. 

• Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot. 

In the Oven 

• Preheat to 300°F. 

• Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil. 

• Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. 

Pro Tip: Avoid high heat or boiling when reheating—this can break the sauce and make the texture grainy. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

1. Overcooking the Chicken 

Why it’s a problem: 
Dry, rubbery chicken is the fastest way to ruin a creamy dish. 

How to avoid it: 
Use a meat thermometer and cook just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Slicing the chicken breasts in half before cooking helps ensure even, faster cooking. 

2. Skipping the Sear 

Why it’s a problem: 
Skipping this step means missing out on that golden crust and all the flavor it brings. 

How to avoid it: 
Heat your pan properly and don’t overcrowd it. A deep golden sear locks in juices and adds savory depth to the dish. 

3. Boiling the Cream Sauce 

Why it’s a problem: 
High heat can cause the cream to separate or become grainy. 

How to avoid it: 
Once you add the cream, reduce to a gentle simmer. Stir regularly, and let the sauce thicken slowly to preserve its smooth texture. 

4. Using Pre-Shredded Cheese 

Why it’s a problem: 
Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. 

How to avoid it: 
Grate your mozzarella and Parmesan fresh. It only takes a minute, and the difference in melt and taste is noticeable. 

5. Not Using Fresh Basil 

Why it’s a problem: 
Dried basil won’t give you the same aroma, flavor, or vibrant green color that fresh basil brings to this dish. 

How to avoid it: 
Always opt for fresh basil leaves, chopped just before use. If you must substitute, a small spoon of high-quality basil pesto is your best bet. 

6. Adding Cheese Too Early 

Why it’s a problem: 
Melting cheese directly into boiling sauce or over high heat can lead to clumping or oily separation. 

How to avoid it: 
Lower the heat and sprinkle the cheese once the sauce has thickened. Cover the skillet and let the residual heat do the work. 

Final Tip: This dish rewards patience and gentle heat. Let each layer—chicken, cream, basil, and cheese—shine by giving them the time and technique they deserve. 

Frequently Asked Questions