Name: Delicious Chicken Marsala with Creamy Mushroom Goodness
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (Pound to even thickness.); to taste Salt (Essential seasoning.); to taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper (Essential seasoning.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (For dredging.); 1 cup Dry Marsala Wine (Use dry marsala for best taste.); 1 cup Unsalted Chicken Broth (Enhances taste.); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (For browning.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Prevents sticking.); 8 ounces Cremini Mushrooms (sliced) (Can substitute with button mushrooms.); 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (Adds flavor.); 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme (Can use dried in less quantity.); 1 teaspoon Oregano (Can use dried in less quantity.); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Thickening agent.); ½ cup Heavy Cream (For creaminess.); to taste Fresh Parsley (chopped) (For garnish.)

As I lifted the lid from the skillet, the intoxicating aroma of sautéed mushrooms and rich marsala wine wafted through the kitchen, instantly elevating my mood and tempting my taste buds. This Classic Chicken Marsala is my go-to recipe when I want to indulge without a trip to an Italian restaurant. With its creamy mushroom sauce and tender chicken, it’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends alike. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply delight your family with a comforting meal, this dish checks all the boxes. Ready to bring a taste of Italy to your dinner table? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Chicken Marsala so popular?

Indulgent Twist: This Chicken Marsala combines succulent chicken with a creamy mushroom sauce that rivals your favorite Italian restaurant. Quick Prep: With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a gourmet meal ready in no time. Versatile Ingredients: Use ingredients you likely already have, or make variations with mushrooms for a unique flavor twist. Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for entertaining or cozy family dinners, it’s guaranteed to impress. Restaurant-Quality: You’ll feel like a professional chef as you recreate this classic dish from your own kitchen, perfect for a special occasion or a delightful weeknight dinner. Don’t forget to check out my Grilled Chicken Sandwich for another delicious chicken idea!

Chicken Marsala Ingredients

For the Chicken

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Pounding to an even thickness ensures uniform cooking and tenderness.
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential seasonings that elevate the overall flavor of Chicken Marsala.
All-Purpose Flour – Helps create a beautifully golden crust when dredging the chicken.

For the Sauce

Dry Marsala Wine – Provides the unique flavor and acidity necessary for a standout Chicken Marsala. Note: Stick to dry marsala for the best taste; avoid sweet options.
Unsalted Chicken Broth – Enhances taste and can be adjusted if the wine is reduced too heavily.
Unsalted Butter – Adds a rich depth to the sauce; mixing with olive oil helps achieve perfect browning.
Olive Oil – Prevents sticking and contributes to the browning of chicken and mushrooms.
Cremini Mushrooms – These mushrooms add umami and texture; feel free to swap with button mushrooms if needed.
Garlic (minced) – Infuses the sauce with aromatic goodness, changing the flavor profile entirely.
Fresh Thyme & Oregano – These herbs add a fresh depth to the dish; dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but use less.
Cornstarch – Used as a thickening agent to give the sauce that perfect consistency; remember to mix with broth to avoid clumps.
Heavy Cream – Crucial for achieving the signature creaminess in the Chicken Marsala; don’t skimp on this!
Fresh Parsley – A vibrant garnish that adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to the final dish.

Let the comforting flavors of Chicken Marsala transform your dinner experience into a culinary adventure!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Marsala

Step 1: Reduce the Marsala and Broth
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of dry marsala wine and 1 cup of unsalted chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes. The liquid should reduce to approximately 1 cup, thickening slightly; look for a syrupy texture that will enhance the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the marsala and broth are reducing, season 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Once seasoned, dredge each piece in all-purpose flour, ensuring a light, even coat for a golden crust when seared.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until bubbling. Carefully add the dredged chicken breasts to the pan, cooking for 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through until they reach a golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 4: Cook the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, add an additional tablespoon of butter along with 8 ounces of sliced cremini mushrooms. Sauté the mushrooms for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and tender. In the last minute of cooking, add 2 minced garlic cloves, allowing them to become fragrant and complement the mushrooms’ earthy flavors.

Step 5: Make the Sauce
Now, pour the reduced marsala and broth mixture into the skillet with the mushrooms. Add 1 teaspoon each of fresh thyme and oregano, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors. As it reduces, prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a little broth; stir it into the sauce to thicken.

Step 6: Finish the Sauce
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in ½ cup of heavy cream, creating a rich and creamy texture for your Chicken Marsala. Adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, turning it gently to coat in the sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color before serving.

What to Serve with Classic Chicken Marsala?

Elevate your dinner table with delightful sides that make this creamy chicken dish even more special.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery, velvety potatoes soak up the luscious marsala sauce and add a comforting touch to your meal.
Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread not only complements but also makes for the perfect vehicle to mop up every last drop of sauce.
Garlic Roasted Asparagus: The bright, crisp flavors of asparagus balanced with a touch of garlic create a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken marsala.
Parmesan Risotto: Creamy and indulgent, risotto adds a luxurious touch to your meal, enhancing the Italian theme beautifully.
Seasonal Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and herbs brings vibrant colors and textures, adding healthiness to your plate.
Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine lettuce and tangy dressing provide a refreshing palate cleanser, allowing the rich flavors of the chicken marsala to shine.
Sangiovese Wine: This light yet fruity wine pairs impeccably with the earthy flavors of marsala, enhancing the entire dining experience.
Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with this decadent dessert, balancing the savory notes of your main dish and leaving everyone satisfied.

Chicken Marsala Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this Chicken Marsala your own with these fun and tempting twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter version without sacrificing richness.
Mushroom Medley: Experiment with a variety of mushrooms such as shiitake, portobello, or even a wild mushroom blend to enhance the flavor profile and add visual appeal.
Low-Carb: Serve this dish with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta or rice for a delicious, lower-carb option that’s just as satisfying.
Herb Infusion: Swap out fresh thyme and oregano for fresh basil or rosemary to give the sauce a unique twist on the herbal notes.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for a bit of heat that beautifully contrasts with the creaminess.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds into the dish right before serving for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients wonderfully.
Wine Variety: If you have a preference, try using dry white wine like Chardonnay or even a splash of sherry for a different depth of flavor, while still keeping that classic essence.
Flavor Boost: Pro tip! Add a few tablespoons of sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts to the sauce for a Mediterranean flair that will impress your family and friends.

With so many delicious options, your Chicken Marsala will never be boring! For another mouthwatering chicken recipe, check out my Grilled Chicken Sandwich.

Make Ahead Options

Chicken Marsala is a fantastic choice for meal prep or busy weeknights! You can season and pound the chicken, then dredge it in flour up to 24 hours in advance, storing it covered in the fridge for optimal freshness. Additionally, the marsala wine and broth reduction can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just be sure to store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the chicken and finish it in the creamy mushroom sauce as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy just as delicious results without the stress of last-minute cooking!

Tips for the Best Chicken Marsala

Pound Evenly: Ensure your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness; this promotes even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
Wine Selection: Always use dry marsala wine for authentic flavor; sweet varieties can overpower your sauce and ruin the dish.
Don’t Rush the Reductions: Allow your marsala and broth to reduce sufficiently for rich, concentrated flavors; rushing can lead to a watery sauce.
Watch Your Sauce: If your sauce feels too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to achieve the desired consistency. Common mistakes include neglecting this crucial step.
Creamy Finish: Stir in heavy cream off the heat to maintain its rich and creamy texture. Adding it while cooking can lead to curdling.
Garnish Wisely: Don’t skip the fresh parsley; it not only adds color but also elevates the flavor of your Chicken Marsala.

Storage Tips for Chicken Marsala

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Marsala in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. This will keep the Chicken Marsala creamy and delicious!
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Chicken Marsala out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Chicken Marsala Recipe FAQs

What type of Marsala wine should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For an authentic Chicken Marsala, you should always use dry marsala wine. Sweet marsala can overwhelm the dish with its sugar content, detracting from the savory flavors of the sauce. Look for a bottle labeled “dry” at your local wine store.

How can I store leftover Chicken Marsala?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let your dish cool to room temperature before sealing it, as this helps maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on low heat to keep that creamy goodness intact.

Can I freeze Chicken Marsala?
Absolutely! You can freeze Chicken Marsala in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To do this, let it cool completely before packing it up. When you want to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then reheat it slowly on the stove, adding a splash of broth if necessary to keep the sauce from drying out.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your Chicken Marsala sauce turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply stir in a little chicken broth until you reach the desired consistency. Start with a tablespoon at a time and mix well. This will help bring back that lovely creamy texture and enhance the flavors beautifully.

Is there any dietary consideration I should be aware of?
Very! This Chicken Marsala recipe contains cream and can be adjusted for dietary needs. For a lighter take, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream. Always check for allergies with mushrooms and broth if cooking for others, as some people may have specific dietary restrictions.