Chicken Marsala

This Chicken Marsala recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a rich sauce that makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this classic Italian-American dish will impress everyone at the table. The standout qualities of Chicken Marsala lie in its delicious flavors and simplicity, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in just 35 minutes.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of marsala apple vinegar and herbs creates a luxurious sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, Chicken Marsala is sure to please any crowd.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and essential nutrients, this recipe offers a balanced meal option.
• Leftover Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or lunch leftovers.

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Tools and Preparation

To make Chicken Marsala successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These items ensure that your cooking experience is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even heating, which is crucial for perfectly searing the chicken.
• Medium saucepan: Used to create the flavorful sauce by reducing the broth and vinegar mixture effectively.
• Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients like cornstarch with broth to achieve a smooth texture in your sauce.

Ingredients

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

For the Chicken

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

• 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)
• 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 until boiling. Then reduce heat to medium and let it gently boil until reduced to 1 cup, about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each side in flour to create a light coating.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

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

Step 4: Transfer Chicken

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it with foil to keep warm.

Step 5: Cook the Mushrooms

Reduce burner temperature to medium heat. Melt remaining butter with olive oil in the same skillet, then add sliced mushrooms. Sauté until golden brown, about 8 minutes. Add minced garlic during the last minute of sautéing.

Step 6: Create the Sauce

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

Step 7: Final Touches

Off heat, stir in heavy cream and season sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Return chicken to pan; spoon sauce over top before serving.

Step 8: Garnish

Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving immediately for an extra pop of color!

How to Serve Chicken Marsala

Serving Chicken Marsala can elevate your dining experience, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. The rich flavors of the dish pair well with a variety of sides and garnishes that complement its savory profile.

Pair with Pasta

• Fettuccine Alfredo: Creamy fettuccine provides a delicious contrast to the rich sauce.
• Linguine with Olive Oil and Garlic: A light pasta option that allows the Chicken Marsala to shine.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Arugula Salad: Peppery arugula with a squeeze of lemon brightens up the dish.
• Caesar Salad: Classic Caesar adds a crunchy texture and creamy flavor that complements the chicken.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the savory sauce, adding a delightful crunch.
• Crusty Italian Bread: A simple bread option that enhances the meal without overpowering it.

How to Perfect Chicken Marsala

To achieve the best Chicken Marsala, keep these tips in mind. They will enhance your cooking process and ensure delicious results every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality chicken and mushrooms will significantly enhance the flavor.
• Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Searing chicken in batches prevents steaming, ensuring a nice golden crust.
• Control Your Heat: Adjust the temperature as needed to prevent burning while browning your ingredients.
• Let Sauce Reduce Properly: Allowing your marsala reduction to thicken builds depth in flavor.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before serving; add salt and pepper as needed for balance.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Marsala

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your Chicken Marsala meal. Here are some great options that pair beautifully with this classic dish.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that complements the chicken.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil brings a touch of elegance to your plate.
4. Risotto: A creamy risotto can absorb the flavors from the chicken’s sauce, enhancing each bite.
5. Quinoa Salad: A fresh quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers a healthy grain option alongside the rich dish.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, spiralized zucchini gives you a gluten-free alternative that pairs well with Chicken Marsala.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many cooks struggle with perfecting Chicken Marsala. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not pounding the chicken – Failing to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness can result in uneven cooking. Always flatten them for consistent results.
• Overcrowding the pan – Placing too many chicken pieces in the skillet at once prevents proper browning. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that golden crust.
• Skipping the seasoning – Neglecting to season the chicken properly with salt and pepper will lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season both sides generously.
• Rushing the sauce reduction – Not allowing enough time for the marsala vinegar and broth to reduce can leave your sauce thin. Patience is key for a rich flavor.
• Using low-quality ingredients – The quality of your marsala apple vinegar and chicken broth greatly affects the dish’s taste. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best outcome.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Marsala in an airtight container.
• It stays fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Marsala

• For long-term storage, freeze Chicken Marsala in a heavy-duty freezer bag or container.
• It lasts up to 3 months when frozen.

Reheating Chicken Marsala

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Marsala?

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish made with pan-seared chicken cutlets and a flavorful mushroom sauce using marsala wine or vinegar.

How do I make Chicken Marsala gluten-free?

To make Chicken Marsala gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch for dredging the chicken.

Can I use other types of mushrooms in Chicken Marsala?

Yes! While cremini mushrooms are traditional, you can use button mushrooms or shiitake mushrooms as delicious alternatives.

How spicy is Chicken Marsala?

Chicken Marsala isn’t typically spicy; it has rich, savory flavors. However, you can add red pepper flakes for heat if desired.

Can I customize my Chicken Marsala recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like asparagus or spinach for extra nutrition and color, making this dish even more versatile.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Marsala is an amazing recipe that combines tender chicken with a rich mushroom sauce. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients, making it suitable for any occasion. Give it a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends!