Chicken Marsala Recipe
Easy restaurant-style Chicken Marsala made from the comfort of your own kitchen. This recipe features pan-fried juicy chicken topped with a creamy marsala wine sauce. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a cozy night in, this Chicken Marsala Recipe is sure to impress and satisfy with its rich flavors and simple preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of total cooking time, you can whip up this delicious dish even on busy weeknights.
- Restaurant Quality at Home: Achieve that gourmet taste right in your kitchen, making it perfect for entertaining guests.
- Versatile Dish: Pair it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad to create a complete meal suitable for any occasion.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of marsala wine, mushrooms, and cream creates a sauce that’s both savory and indulgent.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is sure to please everyone at the table, whether they are kids or adults.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into your Chicken Marsala Recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-reactive heavy-bottomed pan
- Instant-read thermometer
- Plastic wrap (for pounding chicken)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-reactive heavy-bottomed pan: Ensures even heating while preventing any reactions with acidic ingredients like marsala wine.
- Instant-read thermometer: Guarantees that your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165˚F for perfect doneness.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 lbs chicken breast (2 large or chicken tenders)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 8 oz brown button mushrooms (halved or thickly sliced if very large)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 3/4 cup dry marsala wine (not sweet)
- 3/4 cup chicken stock (reduced-sodium)
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 Tbsp parsley (finely chopped)
How to Make Chicken Marsala Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise to make four even cutlets. Place them between plastic wrap and pound until they are about 1/3 thick. Season the chicken on all sides with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, shaking off any excess flour before setting aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large non-reactive heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add olive oil and butter. Once hot, add the dredged chicken cutlets. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through; this should take about 3–4 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165˚F using an instant-read thermometer. Remove the chicken from the pan and keep warm by tenting it with foil.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
If needed, add more oil to the pan along with halved mushrooms. Sauté until most of their liquid evaporates and they turn golden brown—this takes about five minutes. Stir in onion powder and minced garlic; sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Add marsala wine to the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Increase heat slightly and cook until mostly reduced down—about four to five minutes. Then add chicken stock while stirring in heavy cream steadily. Lower heat to maintain a simmer and let simmer for another four to five minutes until slightly thickened. Season sauce with additional salt if needed.
Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Return the cooked chicken back into the pan. Sprinkle tops with chopped parsley. Spoon sauce over chicken and keep on heat until everything is heated through, about two minutes. Remember that the sauce will thicken more as it cools.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Marsala!
How to Serve Chicken Marsala Recipe
Serving Chicken Marsala is an opportunity to impress your family and friends with a delightful meal that feels luxurious yet is easy to prepare. Here are some ways to elevate your dining experience.
With Pasta
- Fettuccine Alfredo – Creamy fettuccine pairs beautifully with the rich marsala sauce. Simply cook the pasta and toss it with a light Alfredo sauce for a decadent side.
- Garlic Butter Spaghetti – Lightly sautéed spaghetti in garlic butter complements the flavors of Chicken Marsala without overpowering them.
With Vegetables
- Steamed Asparagus – Bright and fresh, asparagus adds a crunch that balances the creamy sauce of the chicken.
- Sauteed Spinach – Quick-cooked spinach with olive oil and garlic brings a vibrant color and nutritional boost to your plate.
With Bread
- Crusty Italian Bread – Perfect for soaking up the leftover marsala sauce, this bread adds texture and flavor to your meal.
- Garlic Breadsticks – These are great for dipping in the sauce, offering an aromatic touch that enhances your dining experience.
With Salad
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light and colorful side that pairs well with Chicken Marsala.
How to Perfect Chicken Marsala Recipe
To achieve restaurant-quality Chicken Marsala at home, consider these helpful tips for success.
- Use Quality Ingredients – Opt for good quality marsala wine as it significantly impacts the flavor of the sauce.
- Pound the Chicken Evenly – This ensures even cooking, resulting in tender and juicy cutlets.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cooking in batches prevents steaming and allows for a nice sear on the chicken.
- Let Sauce Simmer – Allowing time for simmering helps deepen flavors and thicken the sauce properly.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste – Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed for perfection.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Marsala Recipe
Pairing sides with your Chicken Marsala can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the rich marsala sauce.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts offer a savory crunch that contrasts beautifully with tender chicken.
- Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs absorbs the delicious marsala sauce perfectly.
- Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad adds a healthy twist while bringing additional texture and flavor.
- Grilled Zucchini – Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini provides freshness and balances out the richness of the dish.
- Herbed Couscous – This fluffy grain dish flavored with fresh herbs complements Chicken Marsala wonderfully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Chicken Marsala Recipe, avoiding common pitfalls can make all the difference in taste and texture.
- Not Pounding the Chicken: Failing to pound the chicken to an even thickness can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure your chicken cutlets are about 1/3 thick for optimal results.
- Using Sweet Marsala Wine: Many people mistakenly use sweet marsala wine instead of dry. Stick to dry marsala wine for a more authentic flavor in your Chicken Marsala Recipe.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many chicken pieces at once can cause steaming rather than browning. Cook in batches if necessary for that perfect golden crust.
- Neglecting the Sauce Reduction: Skipping the reduction process leads to a watery sauce. Allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken enhances its richness and depth of flavor.
- Forgetting Seasoning: Some might overlook seasoning the sauce after reduction. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving for a well-rounded dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Chicken Marsala in an airtight container.
- It will remain fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chicken Marsala Recipe
- Chicken Marsala can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.
Reheating Chicken Marsala Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes, adding broth if needed to keep it moist.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes until warm, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Stovetop: Reheat over low heat in a pan, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream as needed to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this delicious Chicken Marsala Recipe.
What is Chicken Marsala?
Chicken Marsala is an Italian-American dish featuring pan-fried chicken cutlets served with a rich marsala wine sauce and mushrooms.
How do I make Chicken Marsala healthier?
To make your Chicken Marsala Recipe healthier, consider using less cream or substituting with Greek yogurt. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables or over whole grains.
Can I use different types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! While brown button mushrooms are traditional, you can experiment with shiitake or cremini mushrooms for varied flavors in your Chicken Marsala Recipe.
What should I serve with Chicken Marsala?
This dish pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. A simple green salad also complements the meal nicely.
Can I prepare Chicken Marsala ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Just combine them before serving for a quick meal.
Final Thoughts
This easy-to-make Chicken Marsala Recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors that brings restaurant-quality dining right into your home. It’s versatile too; you can customize it with different herbs or sides according to your preference. Give this comforting dish a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Chicken Marsala
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of our easy Chicken Marsala Recipe, a delightful dish that brings restaurant-quality dining straight to your kitchen. This recipe showcases juicy pan-fried chicken breasts, perfectly coated in a creamy marsala wine sauce infused with earthy mushrooms and aromatic garlic. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for family dinners, special occasions, or a cozy night in. Serve it alongside pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 lbs chicken breast
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 8 oz brown button mushrooms
- 3/4 cup dry marsala wine
- 3/4 cup reduced-sodium chicken stock
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise and pound to 1/3" thickness. Season with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour.
- In a large pan over medium heat, cook the chicken in olive oil and butter until golden brown (about 3–4 minutes per side). Remove and keep warm.
- Sauté mushrooms in the same pan until browned. Add garlic and onion powder; cook briefly.
- Pour marsala wine into the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add chicken stock and cream; simmer until thickened.
- Return chicken to the pan, spoon sauce over it, and heat through before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
