Chicken Marsala

This Chicken Marsala recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken cutlets and savory mushrooms, all enveloped in a rich marsala apple vinegar sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish showcases Italian-American flavors that will impress your family and friends. The combination of sautéed mushrooms and a creamy sauce elevates the chicken to new heights, making it a true standout at any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: This Chicken Marsala comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The balance of sweet marsala vinegar and earthy mushrooms creates a dish bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside steamed vegetables; it pairs beautifully with many sides.
• Impressive Presentation: The glossy sauce and vibrant herbs make this dish visually stunning for entertaining guests.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the herbs to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking Chicken Marsala easier and more enjoyable. Below are the essentials you’ll need to prepare this delicious recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• 12-inch skillet
• Meat mallet
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium saucepan: Ideal for reducing sauces quickly while maintaining even heat distribution.
• 12-inch skillet: Provides ample space for searing chicken and sautéing mushrooms evenly.
• Meat mallet: Ensures chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Whisk: Essential for combining cornstarch and broth smoothly without lumps.

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
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 Tbsp olive oil

For the Vegetables

• 8 oz. cremini mushrooms, (sliced)
• 3 garlic cloves, (minced (1 Tbsp))
• 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

1. Add the marsala apple vinegar and chicken broth to a medium saucepan.
2. Heat over medium-high heat until boiling.
3. Reduce heat to medium and let gently boil until reduced to 1 cup, about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge each side in flour, shaking off excess.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

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

Step 4: Cook the Mushrooms

1. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and tent with foil.
2. Lower burner temperature to medium heat.
3. Melt remaining butter with olive oil; add sliced mushrooms.
4. Sauté mushrooms while tossing occasionally until golden brown, about 8 minutes; add minced garlic during last minute.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. Remove pan from heat; pour in marsala reduction along with thyme and oregano.
2. Return to heat, bring to simmer while scraping up browned bits from bottom of pan.
3. Stir in cornstarch mixture; stir until thickened.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

1. Off heat, stir in heavy cream; season sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Return chicken breasts to pan, spoon sauce over top.
3. Sprinkle with parsley before serving immediately.

How to Serve Chicken Marsala

Serving Chicken Marsala is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creating a balanced meal. The savory sauce pairs beautifully with various sides that can complement its rustic charm.

With Pasta

• Spaghetti or Fettuccine: Tossed lightly with olive oil, these pasta varieties soak up the delicious marsala sauce.
• Penne Arrabbiata: A spicy tomato-based dish that contrasts nicely with the creamy chicken marsala.

With Rice

• Garlic Parmesan Rice: Fluffy rice infused with garlic and parmesan adds a creamy texture to the meal.
• Herbed Jasmine Rice: Lightly seasoned jasmine rice offers a fragrant backdrop, allowing the chicken to shine.

With Vegetables

• Sautéed Asparagus: Lightly sautéed asparagus provides a crunchy texture and fresh flavor that enhances the dish.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor, balancing the richness of the marsala sauce.

Salad Options

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing makes for a classic side that complements the chicken well.
• Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad topped with cherry tomatoes can provide a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Chicken Marsala

Perfecting Chicken Marsala involves mastering key techniques and ingredients. Here are some essential tips for an outstanding dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Always opt for high-quality chicken and fresh herbs; they make a significant difference in taste.
• Pound the Chicken Evenly: Ensuring uniform thickness helps the chicken cook evenly, preventing dryness.
• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the marsala reduction to simmer until it thickens; this intensifies the flavors beautifully.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed; this step is crucial for balancing flavors.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances flavor, so don’t skip this step!

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Marsala

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Marsala can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting base that absorbs the sauce well.
2. Creamed Spinach: Rich and velvety, creamed spinach offers a deliciously decadent side that complements any main course.
3. Risotto: A creamy risotto flavored with parmesan makes for an elegant pairing that enhances the overall meal experience.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini adds freshness and color while keeping the meal light.
5. French Bread: A warm baguette is perfect for soaking up any leftover marsala sauce on your plate.
6. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous dotted with veggies provides a light, textured side that balances richness effectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Marsala, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring chicken thickness: If the chicken breasts are not pounded to an even thickness, they may cook unevenly. Ensure uniform thickness for consistent cooking.
• Overcooking the mushrooms: Sautéing mushrooms too long can make them rubbery. Cook until they are golden brown but still tender for the best texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Not seasoning at every step can lead to bland flavors. Season the chicken and sauce throughout for depth of flavor.
• Skipping the reduction: Failing to reduce the marsala vinegar and broth can result in a watery sauce. Allow it to reduce properly for a richer taste.
• Rushing the sauce thickening: Adding cornstarch too quickly can lump up your sauce. Stir it in gradually and let it thicken naturally.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Marsala in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Marsala

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Chicken Marsala can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Marsala

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer chicken to a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking periodically.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth, and warm the chicken gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Marsala:

What is Chicken Marsala?

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

Can I use different types of mushrooms?

Yes! While cremini mushrooms are traditional, you can also use button or shiitake mushrooms for varied flavors.

How do I make Chicken Marsala gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.

Is Chicken Marsala suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Chicken Marsala stores well and tastes even better after flavors meld together overnight.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Marsala is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with rich flavors from mushrooms and spices. Its versatility allows you to customize it easily by adding vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Try this recipe tonight; you won’t be disappointed!

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Chicken Marsala

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that beautifully marries tender pan-seared chicken cutlets with a rich, flavorful sauce made from marsala wine and earthy mushrooms. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, delivering a delightful taste experience that impresses family and friends alike. With just 35 minutes to prepare, you can enjoy a gourmet meal without the fuss. Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside steamed vegetables for a versatile dinner that satisfies every palate.

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Ingredients

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• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 ¼ cups dry marsala apple vinegar
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• Fresh thyme and oregano

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Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine marsala vinegar and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until reduced to 1 cup (about 15 minutes).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper; dredge in flour.
3. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; sear chicken until cooked through (about 10-12 minutes). Set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté sliced mushrooms until golden brown; add minced garlic during the last minute.
5. Stir in the reduced marsala mixture, thyme, oregano, and cornstarch slurry; let it thicken.
6. Off heat, mix in heavy cream; return chicken to the pan to coat with sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Searing
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 110mg