Delicious Chicken Marsala Recipe You Need to Try Tonight

johncrallie
Oct 22
4 min read

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, flavorful mushroom and Marsala wine sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also relatively easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. In this blog post, we will explore the origins of Chicken Marsala, the ingredients needed, and a step-by-step guide to making this delightful dish.

The Origins of Chicken Marsala

Chicken Marsala has its roots in the Sicilian town of Marsala, known for its sweet wine. The dish is believed to have been created by Italian immigrants in the United States, who adapted traditional recipes to suit local tastes and ingredients. The combination of chicken, mushrooms, and Marsala wine creates a savory and slightly sweet flavor profile that has made Chicken Marsala a beloved dish in many households.

The dish is often served with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, allowing the sauce to be thoroughly enjoyed. Its versatility and rich flavors have made it a staple in Italian-American cuisine, and it continues to be a favorite among food lovers.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make Chicken Marsala, you'll need the following ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
4 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced ( I used portobello mushrooms }
3/4 cup Marsala wine
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients come together to create a dish that is both comforting and elegant. The Marsala wine adds depth to the sauce, while the mushrooms provide an earthy flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.

Preparing the Chicken

Before you start cooking, it's essential to prepare the chicken properly. Begin by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This step ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and remains tender.

Once the chicken is pounded, season both sides with salt and pepper. Next, dredge each piece of chicken in flour, shaking off any excess. This will create a nice crust when the chicken is cooked, adding texture to the dish.

Cooking the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover it with aluminum foil to keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.

Making the Marsala Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter has melted, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté the mushrooms for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are browned and tender.

Next, pour in the Marsala wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze and incorporate any browned bits. Allow the wine to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.

After the wine has reduced, add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened slightly, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes so that it can absorb the flavors.

Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. The sauce should be rich and flavorful, perfectly complementing the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Marsala is best served hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with your favorite side dishes to create a complete meal. Here are some popular options:

Pasta: Serve the Chicken Marsala over a bed of fettuccine or spaghetti, allowing the sauce to cling to the noodles.
Rice: A fluffy serving of rice is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base for the chicken and sauce.
Steamed Vegetables: Add a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy touch. ( I went with roasted carrots for my dish )

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Marsala

To ensure your Chicken Marsala turns out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:

Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of the dish relies heavily on the quality of the ingredients, especially the Marsala wine. Choose a good-quality wine for the best results.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This allows for even cooking and helps achieve a nice golden crust.
Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce further. For a thinner sauce, add a bit more chicken broth.
Experiment with Mushrooms: While cremini and button mushrooms are traditional, feel free to experiment with other varieties like shiitake or portobello for different flavors.
Make it Ahead: Chicken Marsala can be made ahead of time and reheated. Just be sure to reheat it gently to avoid drying out the chicken.

Conclusion

Chicken Marsala is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. With its tender chicken, savory mushroom sauce, and the sweet notes of Marsala wine, it's a meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to serve at a gathering, Chicken Marsala is a versatile option that never disappoints. So why not give this recipe a try tonight? You might find a new favorite in your culinary repertoire!

Happy cooking!

Chef John /Giovanni

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