Authentic Chicken Marsala Recipe: Easy & Delicious

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Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. This recipe delivers a rich, savory flavor with tender chicken and a luscious Marsala wine sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

What is Chicken Marsala?

Chicken Marsala consists of pan-fried chicken cutlets coated in flour, then served in a sauce made from Marsala wine, mushrooms, and cream. It's a comforting and elegant dish that pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients You'll Need

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
  • 2/3 cup Marsala wine
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/4-inch thickness. Season with salt and pepper. Dredge each cutlet in flour, shaking off any excess.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook until the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Deglaze with Marsala Wine: Pour in the Marsala wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add Broth and Cream: Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 5 minutes. Stir in the butter for added richness.
  6. Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it in the Marsala sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Marsala

  • Pound the Chicken: This ensures even cooking and tenderizes the chicken.
  • Use Dry Marsala Wine: This provides the best flavor for the sauce. Sweet Marsala can make the dish too sweet.
  • Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches to ensure proper browning.
  • Adjust the Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth. If it's too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Marsala pairs beautifully with:

  • Pasta: Serve over linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the rich sauce.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are excellent choices.

Variations

  • Chicken Marsala with Prosciutto: Add crispy prosciutto to the sauce for a salty, savory twist.
  • Creamy Chicken Marsala: Increase the amount of heavy cream for an extra creamy sauce.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

Health Benefits

While Chicken Marsala is a rich dish, it offers some nutritional benefits. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, and mushrooms provide essential vitamins and minerals. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Call to Action

Ready to try this delicious Chicken Marsala recipe? Gather your ingredients and follow the simple steps for a restaurant-quality meal at home! Don't forget to share your creations with friends and family. Enjoy!