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Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

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This Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a rich and creamy dish made with tender pan-seared chicken, melted mozzarella, and a delicious basil-infused cream sauce. It’s an easy, restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved to make 4 cutlets)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese

For the Basil Cream Sauce:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Season the chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
    • Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
    • Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on each chicken piece, cover the pan, and let it melt. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
  2. Make the Basil Cream Sauce:
    • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
    • Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
    • Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
    • Add the chopped fresh basil and stir to combine.
  3. Combine & Serve:
    • Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top.
    • Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
    • Serve hot over pasta, rice, or with bread.


Notes

  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer or add a slurry of 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water.
  • For extra flavor, add sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms to the sauce.
  • Use fresh basil for the best flavor, but dried basil can work in a pinch (use 1 teaspoon).