Chicken Marsala Recipe: Easy & Authentic Italian Classic

Craving a restaurant-worthy meal without the fuss?

Then get ready to fall in love with this incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy Chicken Marsala recipe! This dish, boasting tender chicken cutlets swimming in a rich, savory Marsala wine sauce, is sure to impress your family and friends, or elevate a simple weeknight dinner to something truly special. Prepare to be amazed at how simple it is to create this classic Italian-American favorite right in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love It

• The flavor is absolutely incredible! The combination of the earthy mushrooms, sweet Marsala wine, and savory chicken is a taste sensation.
• It’s surprisingly quick and easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. Most of the cooking time is hands-off!
• The dish looks elegant and impressive, making it suitable for special occasions or dinner parties. You’ll feel like a chef!
• The tender chicken is so juicy and flavorful, it practically melts in your mouth.
• This recipe is highly customizable. You can easily adjust the ingredients and seasonings to your liking. More mushrooms? Go for it!

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

This Chicken Marsala recipe focuses on building layers of flavor using simple techniques. Instead of just dumping everything in a pan, we first sear the chicken to develop a beautiful golden crust, which not only adds texture but also boosts the flavor. The Marsala wine is then reduced to concentrate its sweetness and complexity, creating a sauce that’s incredibly rich and flavorful. This method ensures a more intense and satisfying final dish compared to some simpler versions.

Ingredient List

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to about 1/2-inch thickness
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup dry Marsala wine – This is the key ingredient providing that classic rich, sweet flavor.
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the same skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic to the mushrooms and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
5. Pour in the Marsala wine and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce by half, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and return the chicken to the skillet.
7. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb some of the sauce.
8. Stir in the butter until melted and the sauce is slightly thickened.
9. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to take your Chicken Marsala to the next level? Here are a few ideas:

• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest can add a bright, citrusy note to the dish.
• Heavy Cream: For a richer, creamier sauce, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream along with the butter.
• Parmesan Cheese: A grating of Parmesan cheese right before serving provides a salty, nutty flavor.

Expert Tips

• Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken, cook in batches if necessary to get a nice sear.
• Use a good quality Marsala wine for the best flavor. Avoid using “cooking” Marsala, which is typically lower in quality.
• Allow the Marsala wine to reduce properly before adding the chicken broth, as this concentrates its flavor.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. A pinch of salt or pepper can make a big difference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts? Yes, you can! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully and will result in a slightly more moist dish. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
• What can I use instead of Marsala wine? If you don’t have Marsala, a dry sherry or even a dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio) can be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
• How do I store leftovers? Leftover Chicken Marsala can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Add the chicken back in just before serving.
• Can I freeze Chicken Marsala? Yes, you can freeze it. The sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. Reheat slowly over low heat, adding a little chicken broth if necessary to get the right consistency.

Variations and Customization Options

Want to make this recipe your own? Here are some ideas:

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for thick slices of portobello mushrooms or even firm tofu for a vegetarian take on this classic.
• Add More Vegetables: Include other vegetables like sliced bell peppers, spinach, or artichoke hearts.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little bit of heat.
• Creamy Version: Add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the sauce for a creamier texture and richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Marsala is fantastic served over a bed of pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine. It’s also delicious with mashed potatoes, polenta, or rice. A side of roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli perfectly complements the rich sauce. Don’t forget to garnish with extra fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Conclusion

This Chicken Marsala recipe is your ticket to an impressive and delicious meal without all the fuss. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and prepare to be amazed by the incredible flavor you can create in your own kitchen! Don’t forget to share photos of your culinary masterpiece and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes!