Chicken Marsala

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that brings together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, slightly sweet Marsala wine sauce. It’s elegant enough for a special dinner yet simple enough for a weeknight meal. Whether paired with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a side of roasted veggies, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts (4, boneless and skinless)
  Tender and lean, these are pounded thin for even cooking.
• Flour (½ cup)
  Used to coat the chicken lightly, creating a golden crust when cooked.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
  Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing the flavors.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
  For searing the chicken to a golden brown.
• Butter (2 tablespoons)
  Adds richness to the sauce and enhances the flavor of the mushrooms.
• Mushrooms (8 oz, sliced)
  Cremini or white mushrooms are perfect for their mild, earthy flavor.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
  Provides a subtle aromatic foundation for the sauce.
• Marsala Wine (½ cup)
  The star ingredient, adding depth, sweetness, and a touch of acidity to the dish.
• Chicken Broth (½ cup)
  Balances the Marsala wine and creates a luscious sauce.
• Heavy Cream (¼ cup, optional)
  For a richer, creamier sauce. Leave it out if you prefer a lighter version.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish)
  Adds a touch of color and freshness to the finished dish.

How to Make Chicken Marsala

Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Place each chicken breast between sheets of plastic wrap and pound it to about ½-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour, shaking off any excess.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 4: Deglaze with Marsala Wine
Pour the Marsala wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Make the Sauce
Add the chicken broth and heavy cream (if using) to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately over pasta, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side.

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Meat mallet or rolling pin (for pounding chicken)
• Tongs for handling chicken
• Cutting board and knife for slicing mushrooms and garlic

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different wine instead of Marsala?
While Marsala is key to the dish’s flavor, you can substitute dry sherry or Madeira wine in a pinch.

Do I have to use heavy cream?
No, the cream is optional. For a lighter sauce, omit it and let the wine and broth shine.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Chicken Marsala reheats beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
The flour from the chicken helps thicken the sauce naturally. If needed, you can whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

What should I serve with Chicken Marsala?
Pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice are excellent options. Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus also pair beautifully.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend to dredge the chicken, and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.

Is Marsala wine sweet or dry?
Marsala wine comes in both sweet and dry varieties. Dry Marsala is traditionally used for this dish, but sweet Marsala can also be used if you prefer a sweeter sauce.

Conclusion

Chicken Marsala is a dish that’s as satisfying as it is elegant. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a special meal. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear about it! Share it with your friends on Facebook or save it to Pinterest for later. Enjoy every bite!