Chicken Marsala Recipe

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that many cooks enjoy at home. It features tender chicken breast, a creamy mushroom sauce, and the gentle sweetness of Marsala wine. This chicken recipe stands out because it blends simple steps with an elegant result. It also highlights everyday ingredients you can find in most grocery stores. Folks who want a quick yet special dinner often turn to this dish. It tastes comforting and can be served with pasta, mashed potatoes, or fresh bread. If you want a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to make, Chicken Marsala might become your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it strikes a balance between taste and convenience. It uses chicken breast for a protein that cooks fast, stays juicy, and pairs well with a creamy mushroom sauce. Even if you’re new to cooking, you can follow each step without stress. You don’t need advanced skills or fancy gear—simple pans and common kitchen tools will do.

The sauce features Marsala wine, but you can swap in a non-alcoholic alternative if you prefer. Either way, you get a pleasing burst of flavor that feels comforting. This Chicken Marsala recipe also leaves room for creativity. You can add your own twist by including extra vegetables, herbs, or side dishes. Many people say it tastes like something from a bistro, yet it’s easy to prepare at home. That’s what sets this apart from other chicken dinner ideas. You’ll soon find it’s a delicious choice for any day.

Ingredients

Below you’ll find everything you need for golden pan-fried chicken and a smooth Marsala sauce. These items work together to deliver a pleasing taste, texture, and aroma. Feel free to make small changes based on your personal style or dietary needs.

Golden Crusted Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts (around 300g/10oz each), cut in half horizontally (or use 4 thighs)
  • If you only have skinless chicken breasts, that’s fine. Slice them carefully so you create thinner chicken cutlets.
• 1/2 tsp cooking salt (or kosher salt)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup plain/all-purpose flour

Marsala Sauce

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp / 30g unsalted butter
• 2 eschalots (also called shallots in the U.S.), peeled and diced into small squares (about 1cm / 1/3 inch)
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
• 2 cups white mushroom, sliced to around 0.5cm (about 1/5 inch)
• 1 cup dry Marsala wine (or sweet Marsala, based on preference; see notes on substitutes below)
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup thickened / heavy cream
• 1/4 tsp cooking salt (or kosher salt)
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley (optional garnish)

How to Make Chicken Marsala

This is where everything comes together. The steps below will help you make chicken marsala without stress. You’ll find each phase easy to understand, from preparing the meat to finishing with a smooth sauce.

1. Prepare the Chicken
   
   • Pound the chicken for an even thickness. Take each chicken breast, cut it in half horizontally to make thinner pieces, then cover them with plastic wrap. Gently tap with a meat mallet or rolling pin until you have steaks about 1cm (0.4 inches) thick. This ensures each piece cooks at the same rate.
   • If you prefer chicken thighs, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts. The taste will be just as good.
2. Season and Coat
   
   • Sprinkle the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. This basic seasoning helps bring out the natural flavor in each cut.
   • Dredge the chicken by rolling each piece in flour until lightly coated. Tap off the excess to avoid a thick, gummy layer.
3. Cook the Chicken
   
   • Set a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add half the oil and half the butter. Wait until the butter turns bubbly.
   • Cook the chicken in batches if needed. Lay the cutlets in the pan in a single layer. After about three or four minutes, flip each piece. Aim for a golden crust on both sides. Cook another two minutes on the second side.
   • Remove the crispy chicken and place it on a plate. Set it aside for now.
4. Sauté Aromatics
   
   • Use the same pan to build flavor. Add the remaining butter and oil. Toss in the diced eschalots and minced garlic. Stir them for about one minute. Don’t let the garlic turn brown, or it could get bitter.
5. Add the Mushrooms
   
   • Next, add the mushrooms to the pan. Cook for roughly three minutes, stirring often so they soften evenly and gain a light brown color. Mushrooms soak up flavors well, so this step is key for a deep taste.
6. Reduce Marsala
   
   • Increase the heat to high. Pour in the dry marsala wine (or sweet marsala if you prefer a softer flavor). Let it boil for about three minutes, giving it time to reduce by about half. This step deepens the sauce by boiling off extra liquid.
7. Add Liquids
   
   • Lower the heat a bit. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, the remaining salt, and pepper. This combination forms the core of your marsala sauce. Allow it to simmer for three to five minutes. You want it to thicken so it clings to the chicken later.
8. Combine Chicken and Sauce
   
   • Add the chicken back to the pan. Nestle each piece in the sauce so it gets warmed through. Let it simmer for about 30 seconds to one minute.
9. Serve
   
   • Take the pan off the heat. Scatter chopped parsley on top if you like a bit of color. That’s all you need to do. You can now plate your delicious chicken and enjoy.

Serving and Storage Tips

A nice meal isn’t just about making a tasty dish. Presentation, side dishes, and storage all play a part in the experience.

Serving Ideas

• Mashed Potatoes: The smooth texture of mashed potatoes pairs well with the sauce. Spoon any leftover sauce over the potatoes for extra flavor.
• Pasta: You can serve this chicken recipe with spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine. It feels like a cozy Italian feast at home.
• Rice: If you prefer something neutral, white or brown rice is a good base for soaking up the sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Balanced choices like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers can round out your meal. Their natural sweetness complements the sauce.
• Crusty Bread: If you’re in a hurry, bread is an easy option. Dip it in the sauce for a simple treat.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Put any leftover chicken marsala in a sealed container. It should stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge.
• Freezing: You can freeze leftovers in a sturdy container or freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. Store it for up to two months for the best taste.
• Reheating: Warm the chicken gently on the stove over low heat. Add a small splash of chicken stock if the sauce has thickened too much. If you prefer the microwave, heat in short bursts so you don’t overcook the chicken.

FDA’s Food Storage Safety: The FDA outlines essential tips for storing food safely, emphasizing proper temperatures and handling to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Helpful Notes

This section covers extra tips, possible variations, and a few answers to common questions. It also addresses how to make chicken marsala if you prefer to avoid real wine. These ideas help you adjust the dish to your lifestyle.

1. Choosing Your Marsala Wine
   
   • There are two main types for this dish: dry marsala or sweet marsala. Dry marsala can bring a subtle, nutty taste. Sweet marsala adds a softer sweetness. Both work fine for this chicken marsala recipe. Pick the one you like best.
   • If you prefer to skip real wine entirely, you can use chicken broth plus a small splash of grape juice mixed with a bit of balsamic vinegar. This can mimic some of the depth that marsala wine provides.
2. Texture Tips
   
   • If you enjoy a heavier sauce, reduce the liquid longer. For a thinner sauce, shorten the simmer time. A quick taste test can guide you.
   • Keep a close eye on the thickness once you add the heavy cream. The sauce can go from runny to thick within minutes.
3. Spice and Herbs
   
   • Add a dash of paprika or dried oregano if you want a unique spin. Some cooks like to sprinkle a bit of chili for warmth.
   • Basil, thyme, or chopped green onions can bring brightness if parsley isn’t your favorite. Adjust based on your taste.
4. Meat Choices
   
   • While many people cut chicken breasts in half to make thin steaks, you can also use chicken thighs. Thighs tend to have a richer flavor. The method stays the same: season, coat, and pan-fry until golden.
   • If you have very large chicken pieces, slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise and make sure to pound the chicken to even out the thickness. Uneven pieces might cook at different rates.
5. Balancing Flavor
   
   • Marsala sauce has a slight sweetness due to the wine. If the sauce tastes too sweet, stir in a squeeze of lemon juice or a light sprinkle of extra salt and pepper. If it’s too tangy, a spoonful of extra cream can mellow it out.
6. Dairy Alternatives
   
   • If you can’t have cream, you could try coconut cream for a different spin. This adjusts the taste a bit, but it’s still tasty. Another option is whole milk with a little cornstarch.
   • If you use a dairy-free alternative, make sure to add it gradually and stir well. Some non-dairy products can break or separate if heated too fast.
7. Mushroom Choices
   
   • The recipe calls for white mushrooms, but baby bella or cremini mushrooms also work. Each type has a slightly different flavor. They all combine well with chicken broth and the wine base.
   • You can even add more mushrooms if you love their earthy taste.
8. Extra Vegetables
   
   • Don’t be afraid to throw in a handful of spinach, sliced zucchini, or even some peas near the end. This can boost the meal’s color and nutrition.
   • If you add veggies with a higher water content, keep in mind they can thin the sauce. Adjust the cooking time as needed to maintain thickness.
9. Possible Additions
   
   • Some cooks enjoy a bit of parmesan cheese on top right before serving.
   • If you want extra richness, a small pat of butter at the end can give the sauce an even silkier finish.
10. Group Meals
    
    • This recipe can scale easily. If you need to feed a crowd, double the recipe. Just make sure you don’t crowd the pan when you sear the chicken. Cook it in batches so every piece browns nicely.
11. Leftovers for Lunch
    
    • Chicken Marsala can make a great lunch the next day. Pack some sauce with the chicken in a sealed container. Keep a side of pasta or rice separate. Warm them together when you’re ready to eat.
12. Personalizing the Recipe
    
    • You can be a recipe developer in your own kitchen. Feel free to experiment with different seasoning blends. Try smoked paprika, dried herbs, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
    • If you loved this recipe, keep notes on what you changed. That way, you can recreate your own spin on the best chicken marsala each time.
13. Why Chicken Marsala Works
    
    • The pairing of mushrooms, marsala wine sauce, and golden-brown chicken cutlets is quite special. The chicken is cooked in a pan first to lock in moisture, while the sauce picks up all those tasty bits.
    • Once you add the chicken back to the sauce, you blend everything into a single comforting experience. The flavors meld, and every bite has a bit of that smooth sauce.
14. Easy to Make at Home
    
    • This dish might look fancy, but it’s not hard to create. A short set of steps and a few basic techniques are all you need to make chicken marsala.
    • Even if you’re new to cooking, the instructions are clear. Season, coat, pan-fry, then simmer in sauce. Repeat these steps until you master them. You’ll soon see that each phase is simple to follow.
15. Non-Alcoholic Variation
    
    • Some folks prefer to avoid real wine. If that’s you, you can still enjoy a flavorful dish. Replace dry marsala wine with a mixture of grape juice, a hint of vinegar, or a high-quality chicken stock. This can help you get close to the depth of the original, minus the alcohol content.

Conclusion

Chicken Marsala is a beloved dish that delivers rich flavor without confusing steps. It’s easy enough for a busy night but also nice for special gatherings. The result is a restaurant-quality chicken dinner you can serve with pride. Whether you go for a splash of real Marsala wine or a substitute, the combination of tender chicken cutlets, mushroom notes, and a silky sauce is unforgettable.

This recipe is simple, yet impressive. By using everyday ingredients, you create something that feels a bit more exciting than a standard weeknight meal. You can switch up side dishes or add extra herbs for variety. Each part of the process is straightforward, and the result is a plate of satisfying comfort. If you try it, consider leaving a review, sharing your own tips, or posting your finished plate online. Enjoy the chance to cook something that brings a smile to everyone at the table.

____________________________________

Chicken Marsala Recipe

Rebecca Blumer

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish featuring tender chicken breast, a creamy mushroom sauce, and the gentle sweetness of Marsala wine. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors right at home.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian-American

Servings 4 People

Calories 524 kcal

Equipment

• Large Non-Stick Pan
• Meat Mallet
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

Golden Crusted Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts cut in half horizontally (or use 4 thighs)
• 1/2 tsp cooking salt or kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Marsala Sauce

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 eschalots peeled and diced into small squares
• 1 clove garlic finely minced
• 2 cups white mushrooms sliced to about 0.5cm thick
• 1 cup dry Marsala wine or sweet Marsala, based on preference
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 tsp cooking salt
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley optional garnish

Instructions

 

• Pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1cm thick, for even cooking.
• Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then lightly dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
• Heat a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add half the oil and butter. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
• In the same pan, add the remaining butter and oil. Sauté shallots and garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
• Add mushrooms and cook for about 3 minutes until lightly browned.
• Pour in Marsala wine and bring to a boil. Reduce by half over high heat, about 3 minutes.
• Lower heat and add chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
• Return chicken to the pan, letting it simmer in the sauce for about 1 minute.
• Garnish with parsley and serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Notes

For a non-alcoholic version, replace Marsala wine with a mix of chicken broth and grape juice with a dash of balsamic vinegar.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 524 kcal (26%)
• Carbohydrates: 16g (5%)
• Protein: 36g (72%)
• Fat: 28g (43%)
  • Saturated Fat: 13g (81%)
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3g
• Cholesterol: 146mg (49%)
• Sodium: 638mg (28%)
• Potassium: 877mg (25%)
• Fiber: 1g (4%)
• Sugar: 8g (9%)
• Vitamins & Minerals:
  • Vitamin A: 756 IU (15%)
  • Vitamin C: 6mg (7%)
  • Calcium: 46mg (5%)
  • Iron: 2mg (11%)

 

⚠️ Disclaimer:  The nutrition information provided is estimated based on automated calculations and should be viewed as an approximation. These values are offered as a helpful reference and may vary depending on specific ingredients and brands used. For the most accurate results, please consult your own nutritional data or preferred brand values.

Explore More Delicious Recipes

If you enjoyed diving into the Chicken Marsala recipe, why not explore more delightful dishes from our collection? Here are some must-try recipes to elevate your cooking adventures:

• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
• Creamy Steak Fettuccine
• Forgotten Chicken Recipe
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Galena Chicken Recipe
  

Explore these recipes today to bring more exciting flavors to your table and make every meal memorable!

FAQs