Craving a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to make at home? Look no further than this Easy Chicken Marsala recipe. With tender chicken breasts, rich Marsala wine, and creamy mushroom sauce, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Marsala
- Simple and Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes with straightforward steps.
- Flavorful and Rich: The combination of Marsala wine, mushrooms, and cream creates a deliciously rich sauce.
- Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients Overview
Main Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: 1.5 lbs, no more than 1/2″ thick
- Kosher Salt: For seasoning
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground, for seasoning
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup, for dredging
- Butter: 4 tbsp, salted or unsalted
- Baby Bella Mushrooms: 8 oz, sliced
- Fresh Thyme: 10 sprigs, plus extra for garnish
- Marsala Wine: 1/2 cup
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced or pressed
- Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Season: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Use 3/4 to 1 teaspoon of kosher salt per pound of meat if not seasoning by eye.
- Dredge: Place the flour in a bowl and coat the chicken breasts evenly, shaking off any excess.
Cooking the Chicken Marsala
- Brown the Chicken: Over medium-high heat, melt the butter in a large skillet or braiser. Add the flour-dredged chicken and brown for about 5 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 150F. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Cook the Mushrooms: In the same pan, add the mushrooms, thyme, and Marsala wine. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 3 minutes until the wine has mostly evaporated.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Make the Sauce: Add the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
- Finish Cooking the Chicken: Return the chicken to the pan, including any juices on the plate. Simmer for about 5 more minutes, basting the chicken with the sauce until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165F.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with extra thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Marsala
- Properly Dredge the Chicken: Ensure an even coating of flour for a nice crust.
- Monitor the Heat: Avoid burning the butter by keeping the heat at medium-high and adjusting as needed.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh thyme and high-quality Marsala wine make a big difference in flavor.
Health Benefits of Chicken Marsala
- Protein-Rich: Chicken breasts provide a lean source of protein.
- Nutrient-Dense: Mushrooms add vitamins and minerals, while garlic and thyme offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Serving Suggestions
- With Pasta: Serve over a bed of linguine or fettuccine.
- With Vegetables: Pair with steamed asparagus or green beans.
- With Potatoes: Serve alongside mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Different Mushrooms: Substitute baby bella mushrooms with cremini or white button mushrooms.
- Additional Herbs: Add rosemary or parsley for extra flavor.
- Vegetables: Include spinach or peas in the sauce for added nutrients.
Storing and Reheating Your Chicken Marsala
- Refrigerate: Keep in the fridge for up to three days in a container that won’t let air in.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Mushroom?
Yes, cremini or white button mushrooms work well in this recipe.
What Can I Substitute for Marsala Wine?
A good substitute is a mixture of dry sherry and a touch of brandy or even white wine if needed.
How Long Will This Dish Keep in the Refrigerator?
Chicken Marsala will keep for up to 3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Make any necessary changes to the cooking time to make sure they are fully cooked.
What Side Dishes Go Well with Chicken Marsala?
Pasta, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad pair wonderfully with Chicken Marsala.
Conclusion
This Easy Chicken Marsala recipe brings the flavors of a classic Italian-American dish to your kitchen with minimal effort. Perfect for any night of the week, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it tonight and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant! Happy cooking!