Chicken Marsala with Mushrooms Recipe

Chicken Marsala with Mushrooms is a classic Italian-American dish that features tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich and savory Marsala wine sauce, complemented by earthy mushrooms. This restaurant-quality meal is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Marsala with Mushrooms recipe is the perfect balance of elegance and simplicity. The Marsala wine adds a sweet depth of flavor, while the mushrooms give it a hearty and earthy touch. It’s easy to prepare in one skillet and pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a side of vegetables. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this dish delivers delicious results every time.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• All-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil
• Unsalted butter
• Cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
• Garlic, minced
• Dry Marsala wine
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream (optional, for a richer sauce)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

directions

1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
2. Season both sides with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour.
3. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add more butter if needed and sauté the mushrooms until browned.
6. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
7. Pour in the Marsala wine and simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
8. Stir in the chicken broth and optional cream, then return the chicken to the skillet.
9. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is heated through.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
• Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick.
• Incorporate shallots or onions for extra depth of flavor.
• Make it dairy-free by omitting butter and cream or using dairy-free alternatives.
• Swap out Marsala wine for dry sherry or white wine if needed.

storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

What is Marsala wine, and where can I buy it?

Marsala wine is a fortified wine from Sicily. It’s commonly available in the wine section of most grocery or liquor stores.

Can I make Chicken Marsala without wine?

Yes, substitute the wine with chicken broth mixed with a bit of grape juice or balsamic vinegar for a similar depth of flavor.

Do I need to use heavy cream?

No, the cream is optional. It makes the sauce richer and smoother, but the dish is delicious without it.

What kind of mushrooms work best?

Cremini or white button mushrooms are most common, but you can also use baby bellas or a mix of wild mushrooms.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well. Make it a day ahead and reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Is Chicken Marsala gluten-free?

Not typically, since the chicken is dredged in flour. Use a gluten-free flour alternative to make it gluten-free.

What should I serve with Chicken Marsala?

Great pairings include mashed potatoes, pasta, polenta, or roasted vegetables.

Can I freeze Chicken Marsala?

Yes, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I thicken the Marsala sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered to reduce naturally, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) if needed.

What if I don’t have a meat mallet to pound the chicken?

You can use a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy skillet, placing the chicken between plastic wrap or parchment paper.

Conclusion

Chicken Marsala with Mushrooms is a timeless recipe that’s easy to prepare yet elegant enough to impress. With its rich, flavorful sauce and tender chicken, it’s a comforting dish you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special date night, it’s sure to be a hit.

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