The Best Chicken Marsala Recipe

A few years ago, I wanted to cook something that felt a little fancier than my usual weeknight dinners but didn’t require hours in the kitchen. That’s when I came across Chicken Marsala. With its creamy, rich mushroom sauce and tender chicken, it was love at first bite.

Over time, I’ve made this recipe my own by simplifying the steps and balancing the flavors just right. It’s now my go-to dish for special dinners at home or when I want to treat my family to something delicious and comforting.

Servings	Total
4	35mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I first learned about Chicken Marsala from a cooking show and thought it looked intimidating. But after trying it once, I realized how straightforward it actually is. Since then, I’ve tweaked it to make it easier and even more flavorful for my family.

Why Chicken Marsala

Chicken Marsala is a classic dish that feels like a restaurant-quality meal, but it’s simple enough to make at home. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich Marsala wine sauce is irresistible. It’s also versatile—you can pair it with pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes.

What Is Chicken Marsala Made Of?

Chicken Marsala is made with:

• Chicken breasts
• Mushrooms (button or cremini)
• Marsala wine (a sweet Italian fortified wine)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream (optional for a creamy version)
• Flour (for dredging)
• Butter and olive oil
• Garlic
• Salt and pepper

What to Have with Chicken Marsala

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

• Pasta: Fettuccine or spaghetti work well to soak up the sauce.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy potatoes are perfect with the rich Marsala sauce.
• Rice: Steamed white rice or wild rice complements the flavors beautifully.
• Vegetables: Steamed or roasted asparagus, green beans, or broccoli make a great side.

Is Chicken Marsala Healthy?

Chicken Marsala can be made healthier by using less butter and cream or skipping the cream altogether. The dish is high in protein, and using fresh ingredients like mushrooms adds a nutritional boost. Pairing it with steamed vegetables or a light salad keeps the meal balanced.

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need:

• Large skillet
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Cutting board and knife

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup Marsala wine
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup heavy cream (optional)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
   • In a shallow dish, mix flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken in the flour, shaking off the excess.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
   • Add the mushrooms to the same skillet and cook for 5 minutes until browned.
   • Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Make the Sauce:
   • Pour in the Marsala wine and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
   • Cook for 5–7 minutes, letting the sauce reduce slightly.
5. Finish the Dish:
   • Stir in the heavy cream (if using) and return the chicken to the skillet.
   • Simmer for 3–4 minutes, spooning the sauce over the chicken until fully coated and heated through.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your choice of sides.

Tips

• Use dry Marsala wine for a less sweet sauce if you prefer.
• For an extra creamy sauce, increase the amount of heavy cream to ½ cup.
• Don’t skip pounding the chicken—it helps it cook evenly and stay tender.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

2. Can I make this dish without Marsala wine?
While Marsala wine is key to the dish’s flavor, you can substitute dry sherry or white wine if needed.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Chicken Marsala is a timeless recipe that brings elegance and flavor to any dinner table. The rich sauce and tender chicken make it a favorite for both family meals and entertaining guests. It’s easy to prepare and pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a staple in your home too!

MORE RECIPES