Chicken Marsala Recipe
Easy restaurant-style Chicken Marsala is a delightful dish that you can easily prepare in your own kitchen. This Chicken Marsala Recipe features pan-fried juicy chicken topped with a rich and creamy marsala wine sauce, making it perfect for various occasions—from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. The combination of flavors from the mushrooms and the marsala wine makes this dish stand out, ensuring your meal will impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The creamy marsala sauce, paired with sautéed mushrooms, adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside vegetables for a complete meal that suits any palate.
- Restaurant Quality at Home: Enjoy a gourmet experience right in your kitchen without the need for culinary expertise.
- Ideal for Meal Prep: Leftovers taste even better the next day—perfect for lunches or easy dinners.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Chicken Marsala Recipe successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make cooking easier and more enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-reactive heavy-bottomed pan
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Instant-read thermometer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-reactive heavy-bottomed pan: Ensures even heat distribution while cooking chicken and prevents sticking.
- Instant-read thermometer: Helps you check the chicken’s doneness quickly, ensuring perfectly cooked meat.
- Meat mallet or rolling pin: Allows for even thickness when pounding chicken cutlets, leading to uniform cooking.
Ingredients
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.
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 4 even cutlets.
- Place between plastic wrap and pound until 1/3 thick.
- Season chicken all over with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper.
- Dredge in flour, shaking off the excess, and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a large non-reactive, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
- Add 2 Tbsp olive oil and 1 Tbsp butter.
- Once hot, add dredged chicken and sauté until golden and cooked through; about 3-4 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Set chicken aside and tent with foil to keep warm.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
- If needed, add more oil to the pan along with the mushrooms.
- Sauté until excess liquid from mushrooms evaporates and they are golden brown (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in 1/2 tsp onion powder and minced garlic; sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Add 3/4 cup marsala wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any bits.
- Increase heat and cook until mostly reduced down (about 4-5 minutes).
- Add 3/4 cup chicken stock while stirring; then add heavy cream in a steady stream.
- Lower heat to keep at a simmer and continue reducing sauce for another 4-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Season sauce with salt as needed.
Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce
- Return chicken to pan; sprinkle tops with chopped parsley.
- Spoon sauce over chicken; keep on heat until heated through and sauce has thickened (about 2 minutes).
- Remember that the sauce will thicken more as it cools.
With these steps completed, you’ll have a delicious homemade Chicken Marsala ready to serve! Enjoy this sumptuous dish that brings Italian flair straight to your dinner table.
How to Serve Chicken Marsala Recipe
Serving Chicken Marsala is an opportunity to showcase its rich flavors and creamy sauce. Pair it with various sides to enhance the meal experience.
With Pasta
- Fettuccine Alfredo – The creamy pasta complements the richness of the Chicken Marsala sauce beautifully.
- Penne Arrabbiata – A spicy tomato-based pasta adds a kick that balances the dish’s creaminess.
With Rice
- Garlic Parmesan Rice – This flavorful rice is easy to prepare and pairs perfectly with the savory sauce.
- Wild Rice Pilaf – The nutty flavor of wild rice adds texture and depth, making it a great companion.
With Vegetables
- Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus provides a fresh crunch that contrasts with the tender chicken.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – The caramelized flavor of these sprouts enhances the overall taste of the meal.
With Bread
- Crusty French Baguette – Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, this bread is a must-have.
- Garlic Breadsticks – These add a delightful touch and keep everyone coming back for more.
How to Perfect Chicken Marsala Recipe
To make your Chicken Marsala truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips for achieving restaurant-quality results.
- Use quality marsala wine – Opt for a good dry marsala wine; it significantly impacts the sauce’s flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can prevent even browning and proper cooking.
- Let chicken rest – Allow cooked chicken to rest before serving; this keeps it juicy and tender.
- Adjust seasoning carefully – Taste as you go; seasoning can make or break this dish, so adjust to your preference.
- Finish with fresh parsley – Adding freshly chopped parsley at the end brightens flavors and enhances presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Marsala Recipe
Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your Chicken Marsala experience. Here are some excellent options that pair well:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery, these potatoes soak up the marsala sauce wonderfully.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan and croutons offers a refreshing contrast to the rich dish.
- Sautéed Spinach – Quick to prepare, sautéed spinach adds a healthy green element that complements the main course.
- Antipasto Platter – A variety of cured meats, cheeses, and olives makes for a delightful starter or side option.
- Quinoa Salad – This nutritious salad can be made with fresh vegetables and herbs for added flavor and texture.
- Baked Zucchini Fries – These crispy fries provide a fun twist while being light enough not to overshadow the chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing a Chicken Marsala Recipe, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect the flavor and texture of the dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F and remove from heat promptly.
- Using sweet marsala wine: Sweet marsala can alter the taste of your sauce. Opt for dry marsala for a balanced flavor.
- Not seasoning properly: Skipping salt and pepper can lead to bland chicken. Season generously before cooking to enhance taste.
- Skipping the dredging step: Dredging in flour helps create a nice crust. Don’t skip this step for better texture and flavor.
- Ignoring the simmer time: Rushing the simmering process can result in a thin sauce. Allow adequate time for thickening to achieve a rich consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Chicken Marsala can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Chicken Marsala Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- It will last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Chicken Marsala Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through (about 20 minutes).
- Microwave: Use medium power, cover with a microwave-safe lid, and heat in short intervals, stirring frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions related to this Chicken Marsala Recipe:
What is Chicken Marsala?
Chicken Marsala is an Italian-American dish made with pan-fried chicken breasts and a rich mushroom sauce enhanced by marsala wine.
How do you make Chicken Marsala healthier?
To make Chicken Marsala healthier, consider using less cream or substituting with Greek yogurt, and choose whole wheat flour for dredging.
Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Yes! While brown button mushrooms are traditional, you can substitute with cremini or shiitake mushrooms for different flavors.
What sides pair well with Chicken Marsala?
Chicken Marsala pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Can I prepare Chicken Marsala ahead of time?
You can prepare the components ahead but cook just before serving for optimal freshness and flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Chicken Marsala Recipe offers comfort and sophistication all at once. Its creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a delightful dish for any occasion. Feel free to customize by adding different herbs or vegetables to suit your taste preferences!
Chicken Marsala Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this Chicken Marsala Recipe brings the taste of Italy right into your kitchen. Featuring tender pan-fried chicken breasts smothered in a luscious creamy marsala wine sauce, this dish is perfect for any occasion—from cozy weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. The rich flavors of mushrooms paired with the sweetness of marsala wine create a delightful balance that will impress your family and friends alike. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a restaurant-quality meal that feels indulgent yet is simple enough for any home cook to master.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 lbs chicken breast
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 8 oz brown button mushrooms
- 3/4 cup dry marsala wine
- 3/4 cup chicken stock (reduced-sodium)
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise and pound to even thickness. Season with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour.
- In a large non-reactive pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and keep warm.
- Sauté mushrooms in the same pan until golden brown, then add onion powder and garlic; cook until fragrant.
- Pour in marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan and reduce for about 5 minutes. Stir in 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
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken cutlet with sauce (180g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
