Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

If you love meals that are dripping in creamy, garlicky richness, this Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce will absolutely steal your heart! Tender chicken breasts are seared until golden, then smothered in a luscious basil and Parmesan cream sauce with gooey mozzarella on top.

Every bite is packed with cheesy, herby flavor and the kind of dreamy comfort food vibes that make you want to dive right in. Even better? It all comes together in one skillet, making both cooking and cleanup incredibly easy.

This is a must-try for chicken lovers, busy home cooks, and anyone looking to impress with minimal effort. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a dinner party with friends, or just a weeknight when you want something special, you’ll want to put this recipe on repeat.

Inspired by classic Italian flavors and my own love for gooey mozzarella, this is a dish you’ll crave again and again!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under an hour—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
• Delivers comforting, restaurant-quality flavor using simple ingredients.
• Cheesy, creamy sauce pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a simple salad.
• Requires only one skillet, so cleanup is a breeze.

Key Ingredients for Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Chicken Breasts

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide the classic base for this irresistible dish. Pound them to even thickness for faster, more even cooking. If you prefer juicy chicken thighs, simply substitute—just adjust for a slightly longer cook time.

Fresh Basil

Fresh basil brings the bright, fragrant flavor that elevates the cream sauce to something truly special. Tear or chiffonade the leaves for the best aroma! While dried basil can be used in a pinch, it doesn’t deliver quite the same vibrant punch.

Mozzarella Cheese

Mild and meltable, mozzarella creates irresistible gooeyness on top of each chicken breast. Use whole-milk mozzarella for the richest, creamiest results. Pre-shredded works, but slicing your own will give you meltier layers.

Heavy Cream

Heavy cream forms the luxurious, silky body of the sauce. For a lighter version, you could use half-and-half, but know the sauce will be slightly thinner and less decadent.

Parmesan Cheese

Fresh-grated Parmesan is key for that nutty, salty kick in the sauce. Parmigiano Reggiano gives the best flavor, but pre-grated Parmesan will work in a pinch. Add extra to finish if you love an even bolder salty bite!

Instructions for Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat your chicken breasts dry, then season all over with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and tent loosely with foil.

Sauté Garlic and Deglaze

Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet, then add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant (be careful not to burn!). Deglaze the pan by pouring in the chicken broth, scraping up all the delicious browned bits from the bottom.

Make the Basil Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk cornstarch with a splash of water and stir it in. Let the sauce bubble for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the fresh basil, letting it wilt and infuse the sauce.

Return Chicken and Add Mozzarella

Return chicken breasts (plus any juices) to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Sprinkle or lay mozzarella on top of each piece. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 2–4 minutes, just until the cheese melts and gets gooey.

Finish and Serve

Garnish with extra basil and a generous grating of Parmesan. Serve the chicken hot, spooning plenty of that creamy basil sauce over the top. Enjoy with your favorite side!

Recipe Variations

Make It Spicy

Want a little kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the garlic for gentle heat that balances the richness.

Gluten-Free Option

This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you skip the optional cornstarch, or simply swap it for arrowroot powder if needed for thickening.

Swap the Cheese

Try provolone, smoked mozzarella, or even creamy fontina for a different but equally delicious melt on top of your chicken.

Vegetable Boost

Stir in a handful of baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra color and nutrients. These add a burst of flavor and texture.

Meat Lovers Twist

Bacon lovers: crisp up a few slices and crumble them over the melty mozzarella for irresistible smoky crunch!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce with buttery garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or angel hair pasta for soaking up every drop of sauce. Roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans make colorful, vibrant sides. Don’t forget to garnish with extra fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a restaurant-style finish!

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second bursts until heated through. This dish can be frozen; cool completely, place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce (FAQ)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great—just add a couple minutes to the searing step for fully cooked, juicy results.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out the chicken?
A: Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to keep everything moist and saucy.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce ahead, then assemble and melt the cheese right before serving for the best texture and flavor.

If you’re a fan of cheesy, comforting dinners with easy clean-up and jaw-dropping flavor, Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. I hope you love it as much as my family does! Don’t forget to comment or rate the recipe below after you try it—your feedback always makes my day.