Homemade Chicken Marsala Recipe

This is a classic and tasty Chicken Marsala that so many people love. I made it for the family, and everyone liked it a lot.

I’ve made so many Italian dishes before, and my last one was Tuscan Chicken Pasta. Chicken Marsala is a cozy dish full of rich flavors. I made it in my own style by using Marsala wine, chicken broth, and heavy cream. The other ingredients are classic, and I think you’re probably familiar with them (take a look at the ingredients to understand).

I’m planning to enjoy this Chicken Marsala next weekend when I host some friends. This dish might also have a place on my holiday table this year.

What is Chicken Marsala?

Chicken Marsala is an Italian dish made with soft chicken cooked in a tasty sauce made from Marsala wine. It has a creamy sauce, mushrooms that taste earthy, and a little bit of sweetness from the wine. It’s a cozy and special meal that’s perfect for any day.

Why You Should Try Chicken Marsala

If you want a dish that’s easy to make but tastes like it’s from a restaurant, Chicken Marsala is the perfect choice, The creamy sauce, with garlic and mushrooms, goes great with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. And the best part? It’s all made in one pan, so cleanup is super easy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a meal that will wow your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup dry Marsala wine
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Chicken Marsala?

Prepare the Chicken

Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.

Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Toss in the mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until they are golden and tender. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze it. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off slightly. Add the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring until the sauce thickens.

Combine and Simmer

Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Meat mallet
• Tongs
• Cutting board and knife

Helpful Tips!

• When you sear the chicken in the skillet, flavorful brown bits (called fond) will stick to the bottom. These bits are packed with flavor! When you pour in the Marsala wine, make sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to lift these up. This deglazing step is essential to create a rich and flavorful sauce, and it ensures you don’t waste any of the savory goodness left in the pan.
• Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end brightens up the dish and enhances its overall flavor. Fresh herbs, like parsley, thyme, or basil, can elevate the taste of any sauce. If you don’t have fresh parsley on hand, you can substitute with dried herbs, but fresh herbs will always give a fresher, more vibrant flavor.
• Once the Marsala wine and chicken broth are added, allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes. This simmering time helps to thicken the sauce and bring all the flavors together. If the sauce isn’t thickening enough, you can simmer it for a little longer. If it becomes too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or cream to adjust the consistency.

How to Store Leftovers?

Let the Chicken Marsala cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce. Avoid microwaving to preserve the texture of the chicken.

What to Serve with Chicken Marsala?

Chicken Marsala pairs deliciously with so many sides, You can serve it with mashed potatoes, buttery pasta, or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or carrots provide a fresh, crunchy taste that is great to have. You could also serve it with sautéed spinach, creamy polenta, or oven-baked potatoes for a more hearty meal.

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and add more richness to the dish.

What can I use instead of Marsala wine?

You can substitute it with sherry or a mix of grape juice and balsamic vinegar for a non-alcoholic option.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken.

Can I freeze Chicken Marsala?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What type of mushrooms should I use?

Cremini or button mushrooms work well, but feel free to experiment with shiitake or portobello.

Can I skip the heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be less creamy. Use extra chicken broth for a lighter sauce.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

Homemade Chicken Marsala is a delightful and simple dish that brings the taste of fine dining to your kitchen. With its rich, savory sauce and tender chicken, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family! If you loved this post, subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips.