Easy Chicken Marsala Recipe

Name: Easy Chicken Marsala Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup Marsala wine (dry or sweet); 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier sauce); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that features tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich and flavorful Marsala wine sauce, with earthy mushrooms and a touch of cream. This Easy Chicken Marsala recipe simplifies the traditional preparation without sacrificing any of the delicious flavors. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. Serve it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a side of vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Chicken Marsala recipe is quick, flavorful, and perfect for a special meal without the fuss. The Marsala wine sauce, combined with garlic, mushrooms, and a touch of cream, creates a deliciously rich and savory base for the chicken. The dish is easy to make with just a few ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to for busy nights when you want something comforting and elegant. The chicken remains juicy while the sauce adds depth and a slightly sweet, earthy flavor from the Marsala wine.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup Marsala wine (dry or sweet)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier sauce)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken:

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Lightly dredge the chicken breasts in flour, shaking off the excess. This will help create a golden crust while cooking.

2. Cook the chicken:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Make the Marsala sauce:

In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-6 minutes, until the mushrooms are soft and browned.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add the chicken broth and simmer for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

4. Finish the sauce:

If you’d like a creamier sauce, stir in the heavy cream and continue simmering for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce and mushrooms over the chicken. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb some of the sauce and heat through.

5. Serve:

Garnish the Chicken Marsala with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add Veggies: You can add other vegetables like onions, carrots, or bell peppers to the sauce to add more flavor and texture.
Use Bone-In Chicken: For extra flavor, you can use bone-in chicken breasts or thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the chicken.
Use Different Mushrooms: While cremini or white mushrooms are the most common choice, you can also experiment with other types like shiitake or portobello for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Chicken Marsala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to help loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes, though the sauce may lose some of its richness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of wine?

Yes, you can use a different variety of Marsala wine, but dry Marsala wine is typically preferred for its less sweet flavor. If you don’t have Marsala wine, you can substitute with white wine or a combination of dry sherry , though the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store the components separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce together in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great for this recipe, and they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What can I serve with Chicken Marsala?

Chicken Marsala pairs wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a simple green salad for a light, balanced meal.

Can I freeze Chicken Marsala?

Yes, you can freeze Chicken Marsala. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in a skillet.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Marsala is a flavorful, comforting dish that brings rich, savory flavors to your table in just 30 minutes. The combination of tender chicken, a delicious wine-based sauce, and earthy mushrooms makes this a meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home