Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Savory Dinner Dish

Ingredients

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 0.5 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• to taste salt
• to taste pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• optional fresh basil sprigs for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown (they don't need to be fully cooked through).
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
6. In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes to slightly thicken.
7. Stir in the chopped basil leaves, mixing well into the cream sauce.
8. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Place slices of fresh mozzarella on each chicken breast.
9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.