Introduction

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender, pan-seared chicken breasts with a rich, savory mushroom sauce made with Marsala wine. The dish is known for its deep, complex flavors, which are enhanced by the earthy mushrooms and the slightly sweet, robust taste of the wine. Whether served over pasta, mashed potatoes, or simply alongside a fresh salad, Chicken Marsala is an easy yet impressive dish that is perfect for any occasion.

This recipe allows you to recreate the sophisticated flavors of a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. The combination of sautéed chicken, caramelized mushrooms, and the delicate Marsala wine sauce is a surefire way to impress guests or indulge in a luxurious weeknight meal. The chicken is juicy and perfectly cooked, while the sauce is silky smooth, making each bite truly irresistible. You’ll want to make this one again and again.

How to Make Chicken Marsala

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Protein: 35g per serving

Able to serve: 4 people

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 3/4 cup Marsala wine
• 3/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier sauce)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch, using a meat mallet. This ensures even cooking. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then dredge each breast in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the mushrooms and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they’re browned and softened. Scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan for added flavor.
4. Deglaze the pan: Pour in the Marsala wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. This helps concentrate the flavor.
5. Add the broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. If you prefer a richer sauce, stir in heavy cream.
6. Return the chicken: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce and mushrooms over the chicken, and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the sauce has thickened.
7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Pair with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Pro Tips

• Marsala wine is the star of this dish, so use a good-quality sweet Marsala wine for the best flavor.
• If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute the Marsala wine with apple juice and a bit of vinegar to mimic the wine’s sweetness and acidity.
• To ensure the chicken cooks evenly, you can butterfly the chicken breasts, slicing them horizontally to create thinner pieces.

Conclusion

Chicken Marsala is a timeless dish that brings together the perfect balance of flavors—from the savory mushrooms to the sweetness of the Marsala wine. The chicken is perfectly tender, and the sauce is rich and smooth, making it a comforting yet sophisticated option for dinner. This dish is simple enough to prepare on a weeknight yet elegant enough for special occasions. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home cook, Chicken Marsala is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Happy cooking!