Chicken Marsala Recipe

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, flavorful mushroom and Marsala wine sauce. The dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough for a special occasion. The combination of savory mushrooms, sweet Marsala wine, and fresh parsley creates a sauce that perfectly complements the chicken, offering a balanced and delicious meal.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup Marsala wine
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Directions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge them in the flour, ensuring an even coating on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they begin to brown, about 4 minutes.
5. Stir in the Marsala wine and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and coated with the sauce.
7. Stir in the chopped parsley just before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Marsala with Cream: Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce to create a creamier version of the dish.
• Using Different Meats: Try substituting the chicken with veal or pork for a different take on the traditional recipe.
• Vegetarian Marsala: For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with portobello mushrooms or tofu for a hearty alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Chicken Marsala can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe container, but be sure to cover it to prevent the chicken from drying out.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.
2. What can I substitute for Marsala wine? If you don’t have Marsala wine, you can use a dry sherry, white wine, or a mix of red wine and a small amount of brandy as a substitute.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? While the chicken can be cooked ahead of time, it’s best to make the sauce fresh to ensure the flavors are vibrant and the dish remains moist.
4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Use a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the chicken, and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
5. Can I add more vegetables to this dish? Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as onions, spinach, or even bell peppers to the sauce for added flavor and texture.
6. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer. The meat will also no longer be pink in the center.
7. Is Chicken Marsala spicy? No, Chicken Marsala is not spicy. The flavor comes from the rich, savory sauce made with mushrooms and Marsala wine.
8. What kind of Marsala wine should I use? Choose a dry Marsala wine for this recipe to achieve the authentic taste of Chicken Marsala. Sweet Marsala can be too overpowering for this dish.
9. Can I freeze Chicken Marsala? It’s not recommended to freeze Chicken Marsala as the sauce can separate upon thawing. It’s best to store it in the fridge and consume it within a few days.
10. What sides go well with Chicken Marsala? Chicken Marsala pairs well with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables, allowing the rich sauce to complement the side dishes.

Conclusion

Chicken Marsala is a flavorful, quick, and elegant dish that combines tender chicken with a rich Marsala wine sauce. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special family gatherings. With the option for various substitutions and simple variations, this dish can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting, Chicken Marsala is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Print