Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish known for its rich, savory flavor and creamy sauce. While some recipes can be intimidatingly complex, this easy chicken marsala recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste without the fuss. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it's surprisingly quick to make and requires minimal ingredients. Let's dive into the details!
What is Chicken Marsala?
Chicken Marsala is a dish featuring chicken breasts sautéed and then simmered in a creamy Marsala wine sauce. Marsala wine, a fortified wine from Sicily, Italy, gives the sauce its unique, slightly sweet and nutty flavor. The richness of the sauce is often enhanced with butter and sometimes mushrooms. This recipe focuses on simplicity while maintaining that signature deliciousness.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick slices
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup dry Marsala wine
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken slices generously with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in the flour, ensuring they are evenly coated. This helps create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
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Sauté the Chicken: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter with the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Mushrooms: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
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Deglaze the Pan: Pour the Marsala wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
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Create the Sauce: Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for a few minutes, allowing it to slightly thicken.
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Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it's evenly coated. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley (if using) and serve immediately over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of wine?
While Marsala wine is traditional, you can experiment with other dry white wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. However, the flavor profile will differ slightly.
What if I don't have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Consider adding sautéed onions, garlic, or spinach to the dish for extra flavor and nutrients.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time and then reheat together gently before serving. Avoid simmering for too long to prevent the chicken from drying out.
What kind of pasta pairs well with Chicken Marsala?
Fettuccine, linguine, or tagliatelle are excellent choices to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Use good quality Marsala wine: The wine significantly impacts the flavor of the dish.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough.
This easy chicken marsala recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity makes it perfect for busy weeknights, while the rich flavor ensures a satisfying and delicious meal. Enjoy!
