Mozzarella Chicken Basil Cream (Print)

Juicy chicken topped with mozzarella in a basil cream sauce. Pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

# What You'll Need:

→ For the Chicken

01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved to make 4 cutlets)
02 - ½ teaspoon salt
03 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
04 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
05 - ½ teaspoon paprika
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
07 - 1 tablespoon butter
08 - 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese

→ For the Basil Cream Sauce

09 - 1 cup heavy cream
10 - ½ cup chicken broth
11 - 3 cloves garlic (minced)
12 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
14 - ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
15 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
16 - ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
17 - ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped)

# How to Make It:

01 - 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.
02 - 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.
03 - 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.

# Additional Notes:

01 - 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.
02 - For extra flavor, add sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms to the sauce.
03 - Use fresh basil for the best flavor, but dried basil can work in a pinch (use 1 teaspoon).