Chicken Marsala

This Chicken Marsala recipe is a delicious Italian-American classic that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to special celebrations. With tender chicken cutlets, savory mushrooms, and a rich marsala sauce, this dish is both comforting and impressive. Its unique combination of flavors makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to elevate their dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Chicken Marsala comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of marsala apple vinegar and fresh herbs creates a sauce that enhances the chicken and mushrooms beautifully.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over pasta, with rice, or alongside vegetables for a complete meal that adapts to your preferences.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown chicken topped with a luscious sauce makes this dish visually appealing for any dinner party.

Tools and Preparation

To make Chicken Marsala successfully, having the right tools on hand is essential. These tools will help you achieve the best results in both flavor and presentation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 12-inch skillet
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• 12-inch skillet: Ideal for searing chicken evenly while providing enough space to sauté mushrooms without overcrowding.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for reducing the marsala sauce while allowing for even heating.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing cornstarch with broth smoothly to prevent lumps in your sauce.

Ingredients

This classic Italian-American chicken recipe includes tender, perfectly pan-seared chicken cutlets, flavor-enhancing browned mushrooms, and it’s all covered with a richly seasoned marsala apple vinegar, garlic, and herb sauce.

For the Sauce

• 1 1/4 cups dry marsala apple vinegar
• 1 1/4 cups unsalted chicken broth

For the Chicken

• 2 (10 – 11 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts (butterflied and halved, pounded to an even thickness)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

For Cooking

• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 8 oz. cremini mushrooms (sliced)

For Flavoring

• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp minced fresh thyme (or scant 1/2 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp minced fresh oregano (or scant 1/2 tsp dried)

For Finishing Touches

• 1 1/2 tsp cornstarch (whisked with 1 Tbsp chicken broth in a small bowl until well combined)
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 Tbsp minced fresh parsley

How to Make Chicken Marsala

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Base

Add marsala apple vinegar and chicken broth to a medium saucepan. Heat over medium-high heat, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium. Let gently boil until reduced to 1 cup, about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Meanwhile, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each side in flour.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Melt 1 Tbsp of butter with 1 Tbsp of olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and let sear until cooked through (165°F in center), turning once halfway through cooking time of about 10-12 minutes.

Step 4: Tent the Chicken

Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Step 5: Sauté the Mushrooms

Reduce burner temperature to medium heat. Melt the remaining butter with olive oil in the same skillet. Add sliced mushrooms. Sauté them while tossing occasionally until they are golden brown and have shrunk down, about 8 minutes. Add minced garlic during the last minute of sautéing.

Step 6: Incorporate the Sauce

Remove pan from heat then pour in the reduced marsala mixture along with thyme and oregano. Return to heat, bringing it to a simmer while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in cornstarch mixture until thickened.

Step 7: Finish with Cream

Off heat stir in heavy cream and season sauce with additional salt and pepper if needed. Return chicken breasts back into pan on top of sauce.

Step 8: Serve

Sprinkle with freshly minced parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy your flavorful Chicken Marsala!

How to Serve Chicken Marsala

Chicken Marsala is a delightful dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. It can be served in several ways to enhance its flavors and presentation.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle freshly minced parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs – Garnish with thyme sprigs for an aromatic touch.

Over Pasta

• Fettuccine – Serve Chicken Marsala over fettuccine for a classic Italian twist.
• Penne – Use penne pasta to capture the delicious sauce in every bite.

Accompanied by Vegetables

• Steamed Asparagus – Bright green asparagus adds both color and nutrition to your plate.
• Sautéed Spinach – Wilted spinach complements the rich sauce beautifully.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve alongside garlic bread for dipping into the savory sauce.
• Ciabatta Rolls – Soft ciabatta rolls are perfect for soaking up leftover sauce.

How to Perfect Chicken Marsala

To achieve the best Chicken Marsala, follow these essential tips. They will help you create a dish that is flavorful and visually appealing.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh herbs and high-quality chicken for better flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
• Control the Heat – Adjust the burner temperature as needed to prevent burning while sautéing mushrooms.
• Let it Rest – After cooking, allow chicken to rest briefly before slicing for juicier meat.
• Taste Before Serving – Adjust seasoning in the sauce before serving to balance flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Marsala

Pairing Chicken Marsala with complementary side dishes enhances the meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make a comforting side.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts add texture and a slight bitterness that balances the richness of the dish.
3. Rice Pilaf – Lightly seasoned rice pilaf serves as a neutral base that absorbs the delicious sauce.
4. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad provides a crunchy contrast and fresh flavors.
5. Grilled Zucchini – Lightly grilled zucchini adds color and sweetness, complementing the savory elements of Chicken Marsala.
6. Creamy Polenta – Smooth polenta offers a creamy alternative that pairs well with rich sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Marsala, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and ways to avoid them.

• Not pounding the chicken: If you skip pounding the chicken, it may cook unevenly. Ensure each piece is an even thickness for consistent cooking.
• Overcooking the sauce: Cooking the sauce too long can lead to a bitter flavor. Monitor closely and remove from heat once thickened.
• Using low-quality wine or vinegar: The flavor of your Chicken Marsala relies on quality ingredients. Always use a good dry marsala apple vinegar for the best taste.
• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season your chicken properly can result in blandness. Don’t shy away from salt and pepper; it enhances overall flavor.
• Ignoring the resting time: Cutting into chicken right after cooking can lead to dry meat. Letting it rest allows juices to redistribute for a juicy meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow Chicken Marsala to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Chicken Marsala

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Chicken Marsala

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Marsala that may help you during your cooking journey!

What is Chicken Marsala?

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish featuring pan-seared chicken cutlets cooked in a rich marsala wine sauce with mushrooms.

Can I make Chicken Marsala without alcohol?

Yes! You can substitute marsala wine with non-alcoholic alternatives like grape juice mixed with vinegar or broth for similar flavors.

How do I make Chicken Marsala gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour when dredging the chicken.

Can I add vegetables to my Chicken Marsala?

Definitely! Feel free to add asparagus or spinach for an added nutritional boost and flavor variation.

How do I know when my Chicken Marsala is done?

Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Marsala is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any dinner occasion. With its comforting flavors, this dish can be customized with your favorite herbs or vegetables. Give it a try, and enjoy its warm, inviting taste!