Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish known for its rich, savory flavors. This elegant yet simple recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious Marsala wine sauce, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The sauce, made from Marsala wine, mushrooms, and a touch of cream, adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish while being surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a delicious meal at home, this Chicken Marsala recipe is a must-try. Let’s dive into how to make this flavorful dish and explore the ingredients that make it so special.
Ingredients for Chicken Marsala
To prepare Chicken Marsala, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms work well)
- 3/4 cup Marsala wine (sweet or dry, depending on your preference)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Chicken Marsala
- Prepare the Chicken
Start by preparing the chicken breasts. If they are thick, you may want to pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures they cook evenly. Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt and black pepper. Dredge the chicken breasts in 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess flour. - Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and the butter is melted, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. - Cook the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté the mushrooms for about 5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and have released their moisture. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. - Add Garlic and Deglaze the Pan
Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the mushrooms and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Pour in 3/4 cup of Marsala wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly. - Add Broth and Cream
Stir in 1/2 cup of chicken broth and 1/4 cup of heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed. - Return Chicken to the Skillet
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate. Spoon some of the sauce and mushrooms over the chicken. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and well coated with the sauce. - Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the chicken with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and added flavor. Serve the Chicken Marsala hot, with your choice of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy this rich and flavorful meal!
About the Main Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: The primary protein in this dish, chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly. Pounding them to an even thickness ensures they cook uniformly and stay tender.
- Marsala Wine: This sweet or dry fortified wine is the key to the distinctive flavor of Chicken Marsala. It adds depth and complexity to the sauce. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, use sweet Marsala; for a less sweet flavor, opt for dry Marsala.
- Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add an earthy, umami flavor to the dish. They absorb the flavors of the sauce and provide a delightful texture contrast.
- Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce, balancing the bold flavors of the wine. It also helps thicken the sauce slightly.
- Garlic: Provides a robust flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Fresh garlic is preferable for its intense aroma and taste.
- Thyme: This herb adds a subtle, savory note to the sauce. You can use dried thyme for convenience, or fresh thyme for a more vibrant flavor.
- Parsley: Used as a garnish, fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor that brightens the dish.
Chicken Marsala is a versatile dish that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. With its rich, flavorful sauce and tender chicken, it’s a perfect addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy making and savoring this classic Italian-American favorite!
