Welcome to Mozzarella Chicken Heaven!
Hello, friends! Are you ready for a dish that’s not only juicy and cheesy but also feels a little bit special? Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Mozzarella Chicken with Basil! This dish has all the comfort and warmth you’re looking for, and it’s surprisingly simple to make. Trust me, anyone who tries it won’t be able to resist coming back for seconds!
Nutritional Benefits
Let’s talk about some of the benefits of this delicious recipe! Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for building muscle and keeping your energy levels up. Fresh basil not only adds a delightful flavor but is also packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, mozzarella cheese (in moderation) provides calcium which is great for bone health. So, while this dish is super indulgent, it’s got some healthy perks too!
Adaptable Variations
Maybe you want to make this dish suit your personal taste or dietary needs? Here are some ideas:
- Chicken Alternatives: If you’re not a chicken fan, you can absolutely use turkey cutlets or even eggplant slices for a vegetarian twist that still gives you that creamy flavor!
- Cheese Choices: Swap out mozzarella for other melty cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique taste experience.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based chicken and dairy-free cheese. Coconut cream can be a delicious substitute for heavy cream, giving you that creamy goodness without the dairy!
Let’s Get Cooking: Mozzarella Chicken with Basil
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Servings: 3 servings
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus whole leaves for garnish)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for added flavor)
Instructions
- First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for getting that lovely bubbly cheese later.
- Season those chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. Don’t be shy; this is where the flavor begins!
- Grab a large oven-safe skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it shimmies, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and smell amazing. Remove them from the skillet and set aside – they’re not done yet!
- Keep that skillet on the heat but lower it a bit. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Be careful! Garlic loves to burn, and we want it just fragrant and soft.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to mix it well with the garlic. Let it simmer for about 1-2 minutes. You’re already doing great!
- Add the chopped basil into the cream sauce and stir until well combined. If you’re feeling indulgent, throw in that grated Parmesan cheese now and mix until it’s all melted and cozy.
- Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning that luscious cream sauce over them. It’s about to get gooey!
- Top each piece of chicken with slices of fresh mozzarella cheese. Yes, please! Pop that skillet into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- When it’s ready, remove your masterpiece from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with whole basil leaves to impress your loved ones.
- Serve it warm and enjoy with a side of pasta, crusty bread, or steamed veggies to soak up that delightful sauce!
Practical Tips for Success
- If you like crispier cheese, place it under the broiler for 1-2 extra minutes at the end. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
- Feel free to prep the sauce ahead of time and bake the chicken when you’re ready for a family meal.
- Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven for best results.
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Mozzarella Chicken:
- A skillet (preferably oven-safe)
- A sharp knife for slicing
- A cutting board
- A meat thermometer (for checking chicken doneness)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even cooking.
- What can I serve this with? It pairs wonderfully with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad! Feel free to be creative!
- How do I know the chicken is cooked through? Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked.
- Can I make this in advance? Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then bake when you’re ready.
- Is it okay to use different herbs? Absolutely! You can use thyme or oregano if you’d like to change things up.
Join the Fun!
Now it’s your turn to whip up this delicious Mozzarella Chicken with Basil! I really hope you give it a try, and I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Feel free to share your thoughts or any variations you tried. And don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more scrumptious recipes that will bring joy to your dinner table!
