Chicken Marsala

This Chicken Marsala recipe is a delightful Italian-American dish that promises tender chicken cutlets, perfectly sautéed mushrooms, and a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s suitable for family dinners, special occasions, or simply a weeknight treat. With its combination of savory ingredients and easy preparation, this dish stands out as a favorite among many home cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This Chicken Marsala can be ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of marsala apple vinegar and herbs creates a deeply satisfying sauce that enhances the chicken.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal that can adapt to any taste.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden brown chicken and mushrooms topped with fresh parsley make for an eye-catching dish that will impress guests.
• Healthy Ingredients: With lean chicken breast and fresh herbs, this recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To master Chicken Marsala, you’ll need some key kitchen tools. These tools streamline the cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of both chicken and mushrooms.
• Medium saucepan: Essential for reducing the sauce to concentrate flavors without burning.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly when preparing the cornstarch mixture for thickening the sauce.

Ingredients

This classic Italian-American chicken recipe includes tender, perfectly pan seared chicken cutlets, flavor-enhancing browned mushrooms, 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 Thickening and Serving

• 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

Meanwhile, season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge each side in flour to ensure a nice crust when cooked.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

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

Step 4: Transfer Chicken

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and tent it with foil to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.

Step 5: Cook the Mushrooms

Reduce burner temperature to medium heat. Melt remaining butter with olive oil in the same skillet. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until they shrink and turn golden brown—about 8 minutes. Add minced garlic during the last minute of sautéing.

Step 6: Combine Sauce Ingredients

Remove pan from heat; pour in the reduced marsala mixture along with thyme and oregano.

Step 7: Thicken Sauce

Return to heat; bring mixture to a simmer while scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in cornstarch mixture until thickened.

Step 8: Finish Sauce

Off heat, stir in heavy cream. Season sauce with salt and pepper to taste before returning chicken breasts back into the pan.

Step 9: Serve

Spoon sauce over chicken breasts, sprinkle with parsley, and serve immediately for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Chicken Marsala

Chicken Marsala is a delightful dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. The rich flavors of the chicken and sauce can be complemented by simple yet delicious accompaniments that enhance the meal experience.

With Pasta

• Fettuccine Alfredo: Creamy fettuccine adds richness that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
• Penne Arrabbiata: Spicy tomato sauce provides a nice contrast to the sweet marsala sauce.
• Spaghetti Aglio e Olio: This garlic-infused pasta allows the Chicken Marsala to shine through without competing flavors.

With Vegetables

• Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic offer a fresh crunch that balances the dish.
• Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears add color and a slight char that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach brings a healthy, vibrant element to your plate.

With Bread

• Crusty Italian Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover marsala sauce.
• Garlic Breadsticks: These add a comforting touch and are great for dipping into the sauce.

How to Perfect Chicken Marsala

To achieve the best results with Chicken Marsala, consider these handy tips. They will help elevate your dish while ensuring it turns out perfectly every time.

• Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and good-quality marsala vinegar for richer flavor.
• Pound the chicken evenly: This ensures even cooking and prevents some pieces from being overcooked or dry.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Sear chicken pieces in batches if necessary, allowing them to brown nicely without steaming.
• Deglaze properly: Scrape up those brown bits after cooking chicken; they add depth to your sauce.
• Adjust seasoning at the end: Taste before serving; you may need more salt or pepper depending on personal preference.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Marsala

Serving Chicken Marsala with tasty sides can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic complement the rich sauce perfectly.
2. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious side that adds color and a slight crunch to your plate.
3. Risotto: Creamy risotto can soak up the marsala sauce, making every bite delightful.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan and croutons adds freshness to balance the dish.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: A healthy grain option that provides a nutty flavor along with added texture.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These provide a caramelized sweetness that pairs well with the savory elements of Chicken Marsala.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks encounter challenges when preparing Chicken Marsala. Here are some common mistakes and tips on how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Searing: Not properly searing the chicken can result in a lack of flavor. Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken for that golden crust.
• Overcooking the Mushrooms: Cooking mushrooms too long can make them rubbery. Sauté until they are golden brown, typically around 8 minutes.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken can lead to bland results. Always season both sides generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Rushing the Sauce: A good sauce requires time to develop flavors. Allow the marsala reduction to simmer until it thickens, ensuring a rich taste.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Subpar ingredients can ruin this dish. Use fresh herbs and quality marsala vinegar for the best outcome.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Chicken Marsala

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Chicken Marsala can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Marsala

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally. This takes about 2-4 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring gently until warmed through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Marsala.

What is Chicken Marsala?

Chicken Marsala is an Italian-American dish featuring chicken cutlets cooked in a rich marsala wine sauce with mushrooms and herbs.

Can I use different types of wine for Chicken Marsala?

While dry marsala apple vinegar is traditional, you can experiment with other dry white wines or sherry for a different flavor profile.

How do I make Chicken Marsala gluten-free?

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

Can I customize my Chicken Marsala?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like asparagus or spinach for added nutrients and flavor variations.

What should I serve with Chicken Marsala?

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Marsala is a delightful and versatile dish that brings comfort food into any meal. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the herbs according to your taste preferences!