Chicken Marsala

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that beautifully combines the tender richness of chicken with the complex flavors of Marsala wine, a fortified wine from Sicily. Originally hailing from the Italian island, Chicken Marsala has transcended borders to become a favorite in many households and restaurants across the globe. The dish typically features sautéed chicken breasts, lightly dusted with flour to achieve a delightful golden crust, and finished with a luscious mushroom and Marsala wine sauce. The unique flavor profile of Marsala, with its sweet and savory notes, elevates the dish, making it perfect for a dinner party or a cozy weeknight meal. Served with a side of pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread, Chicken Marsala is not only easy to prepare but also offers a taste of Italian comfort food that will warm your heart.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, for dusting
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3/4 cup Marsala wine
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
2. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess flour.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
4. Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 4-5 minutes, until they start to brown and soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
6. Carefully pour in the Marsala wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Allow the wine to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.
7. Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
8. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat the chicken through.
9. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until the sauce is glossy and well combined.
10. Transfer the Chicken Marsala to a serving platter, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Servings

This recipe yields 4 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering. Enjoy the comforting flavors of Chicken Marsala along with your favorite sides!

Nutritional Information

Tools Needed

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Tongs or spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Serving plates
• Ladle

Preparation Tips

• Pound the Chicken: Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This ensures even cooking and helps tenderize the meat.
• Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality, fresh chicken and Marsala wine to enhance the flavors of the dish.
• Season Wisely: Don’t forget to season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before cooking to maximize flavor.
• Sear Properly: Preheat the skillet until it’s hot before adding oil or butter. This helps to achieve a beautiful golden crust on the chicken.
• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the Marsala wine to reduce properly after adding it to the pan. This concentrates the flavors and creates a luscious sauce.
• Experiment with Mushrooms: While cremini mushrooms are traditional, try adding different varietals like shiitake or oyster mushrooms for a unique twist.
• Adjust the Flavor: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a touch of brown sugar or honey during the reduction process.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme just before serving for a burst of color and flavor.

Skill Level

Intermediate: This recipe requires basic cooking skills, including the ability to work with raw meat, sauté vegetables, and create a sauce.

Course and Cuisine

• Course: Main Dish
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Serving and Presentation Recommendations

• Plating: Arrange the chicken breasts on a large serving platter, spooning the Marsala sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color.
• Accompaniments: Serve with sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or sautéed green beans for a well-rounded meal.
• Wine Pairing: Pair with a glass of dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light-bodied red, like Pinot Noir, to complement the dish’s flavors.

Storage Conditions

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover Chicken Marsala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: It is best to freeze cooked chicken without the sauce, as freezing can alter the texture of the mushrooms. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or wine to retain moisture, or use the microwave.

Health Benefits

Chicken Marsala, made with lean chicken breast, is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle health and repair. The addition of mushrooms provides antioxidants such as selenium, which may help support the immune system. The dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a fitting option for those monitoring their carb intake. Additionally, the Marsala wine used in the sauce can offer certain health benefits, including antioxidant properties.

Vegan Recommendations

• To make a vegan version of Chicken Marsala, substitute chicken with firm tofu or seitan, and use vegetable broth instead of wine for the sauce. Ensure that all other components are plant-based as well.

Similar Recipes

• Veal Marsala
• Chicken Piccata
• Chicken Francese
• Mushroom Marsala Risotto
• Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta