Chicken Marsala

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that features tender, golden-brown chicken breasts in a rich, savory sauce made with Marsala wine and earthy mushrooms. This dish is known for its elegant yet simple preparation, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of the wine, chicken broth, and sautéed mushrooms creates a deep, flavorful sauce that complements the chicken beautifully. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Marsala is a versatile and satisfying dish that brings together the best of savory flavors with minimal effort. The tender chicken, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, soaks up the delicious Marsala wine sauce, infusing each bite with a rich, savory taste. The mushrooms add an earthy depth, and the fresh parsley brings a burst of color and freshness to the dish. This recipe is quick to prepare, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal option for busy nights when you want something delicious and comforting. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper
• All-purpose flour
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Sliced mushrooms
• Marsala wine
• Chicken broth
• Fresh parsley

Variations

• Add Garlic: For an extra depth of flavor, sauté minced garlic with the mushrooms.
• Use Different Wines: While Marsala wine is traditional, you can try other types of wine like white wine or even a dry sherry for a different taste.
• Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, you can substitute the butter with olive oil and use less oil during cooking.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or asparagus to the sauce for more color and nutrition.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, shaking off the excess.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken in the butter and oil mixture, browning on both sides. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them until they are browned and softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour the Marsala wine and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine and deglaze the pan. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Return the Chicken

Return the browned chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the chicken with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: If you’re making a larger batch, cook the chicken in batches to ensure it browns evenly.
• Use a Good Quality Marsala Wine: A dry Marsala wine is ideal for this recipe, as it provides the rich, complex flavor that is the hallmark of this dish.
• Let the Chicken Rest: After browning the chicken, let it rest for a minute before serving to help retain the juices.
• Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add more chicken broth.

How to Serve

Chicken Marsala is traditionally served with a side of pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it with a simple green vegetable like steamed asparagus or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Marsala can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the chicken.

Freezing

If you want to make Chicken Marsala ahead of time, you can freeze the dish (without the garnish) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for a richer flavor and more tender texture.

2. What if I don’t have Marsala wine?

If you don’t have Marsala wine, you can substitute with a dry white wine or a dry sherry, although the flavor will differ slightly.

3. Can I make Chicken Marsala without wine?

Yes, you can make the recipe without wine, though the sauce will lack the depth of flavor. You can substitute with additional chicken broth and a splash of vinegar for acidity.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

5. What other sides can I serve with Chicken Marsala?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

6. How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry?

Be sure not to overcook the chicken. Once browned, return it to the pan to simmer just until cooked through, and remove it from the pan as soon as it reaches 165°F internally.

7. Can I use pre-sliced mushrooms?

Yes, you can use pre-sliced mushrooms for convenience, though slicing them yourself may give you a fresher texture.

8. How do I thicken the sauce?

If you want a thicker sauce, simmer it longer to reduce the liquid, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.

9. Can I make Chicken Marsala without chicken broth?

Yes, you can replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth or even more Marsala wine, depending on your preference.

10. Can I make this recipe without butter?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

Chicken Marsala is an elegant and flavorful dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. With its tender chicken, rich Marsala wine sauce, and savory mushrooms, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. By following the simple steps and tips provided, you can create a meal that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Enjoy this delicious classic with your favorite sides and savor the rich flavors in every bite.

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