Chicken Marsala

This Chicken Marsala recipe brings together the best of Italian-American cuisine with its tender chicken cutlets and richly flavored sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish is both elegant and easy to prepare. The combination of succulent chicken and savory mushrooms in a marsala apple vinegar sauce makes it a standout choice that will impress any guest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Chicken Marsala can be made in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful Sauce: The marsala apple vinegar adds a unique twist that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside vegetables for a complete meal that suits various tastes.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful colors and rich sauce make this dish visually appealing for entertaining.
• Comfort Food Delight: It’s a warm, hearty meal that everyone will love, perfect for cozy nights in.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Chicken Marsala, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking and browning, which is key for achieving perfectly seared chicken.
• Medium saucepan: This is essential for reducing the sauce to concentrate flavors without burning.
• Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that your cornstarch mixture combines smoothly without lumps.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in cooking to balance flavors correctly.

Ingredients

This classic Italian-American chicken recipe includes tender, perfectly pan seared chicken cutlets, flavor enhancing browned mushrooms, and it’s all covered with a richly seasoned marsala apple vinegar, garlic and herb sauce.

For the Sauce

• 1 1/4 cups dry marsala apple vinegar
• 1 1/4 cups unsalted chicken broth

For the Chicken

• 2 (10 – 11 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts, (butterflied and halved, pounded to an even thickness)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

For Cooking

• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 Tbsp olive oil

For the Mushrooms

• 8 oz. cremini mushrooms, (sliced)
• 3 garlic cloves, (minced (1 Tbsp))
• 1 tsp minced fresh thyme (or scant 1/2 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp minced fresh oregano (or scant 1/2 tsp dried)

For Thickening

• 1 1/2 tsp cornstarch (whisked with 1 Tbsp chicken broth in a small bowl until well combined)
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 Tbsp minced fresh parsley

How to Make Chicken Marsala

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Base

Add marsala apple vinegar and chicken broth to a medium saucepan. Heat over medium-high heat, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and let gently boil until reduced to 1 cup, about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Meanwhile season both sides of chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge each side in flour.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Melt 1 Tbsp butter with 1 Tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and let sear until cooked through (165 in center), turning once halfway through, about 10 – 12 minutes.

Step 4: Tent the Chicken

Transfer chicken to a plate. Tent with foil to keep warm while you prepare the mushrooms.

Step 5: Sauté the Mushrooms

Reduce burner temperature to medium heat. Melt remaining 1 Tbsp butter with 1 Tbsp olive oil; add mushrooms. Sauté mushrooms until they are golden brown, about 8 minutes. Add garlic during last minute of sautéing.

Step 6: Combine Sauce Ingredients

Remove pan from heat then pour in marsala reduction, thyme, and oregano. Return to heat; bring to a simmer while scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Stir in cornstarch mixture until thickened.

Step 7: Finish the Dish

Off heat stir in heavy cream; season sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Return chicken breasts to pan; spoon sauce over top.

Step 8: Serve

Sprinkle with parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Marsala!

How to Serve Chicken Marsala

Serving Chicken Marsala can elevate your dining experience, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance this classic dish.

Pair with Pasta

• Fettuccine Alfredo – Creamy fettuccine pairs well with the rich sauce of Chicken Marsala.
• Penne Arrabbiata – The spicy tomato sauce complements the savory flavors of the chicken.

Add Seasonal Vegetables

• Steamed Asparagus – A light and crunchy side that balances the richness of the dish.
• Sautéed Spinach – Adds a pop of color and nutrients, enhancing your meal’s healthiness.

Serve with Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
• Crusty French Baguette – Offers a delightful crunch that contrasts with tender chicken.

Include a Salad

• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine with parmesan adds a refreshing crunch to your meal.
• Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella and tomatoes provide a light, tangy contrast to the chicken.

How to Perfect Chicken Marsala

Perfecting Chicken Marsala is all about balancing flavors and achieving the right texture. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Choose the Right Wine – Use high-quality dry marsala apple vinegar for a deeper flavor.
• Pound Evenly – Ensure chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook chicken in batches if necessary; overcrowding can prevent proper browning.
• Use Fresh Herbs – Fresh thyme and oregano will enhance the aroma and flavor of your sauce.
• Deglaze Properly – Scrape up browned bits after cooking chicken; they add rich flavor to your sauce.
• Adjust Consistency – Use cornstarch wisely; it helps thicken without compromising taste.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Marsala

When serving Chicken Marsala, choosing complementary side dishes can make your meal more satisfying. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic enhance the savory profile of the chicken.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy sprouts add a delightful crunch that balances softness from the sauce.
3. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice with herbs absorbs leftover sauce beautifully, creating a hearty side.
4. Quinoa Salad – A nutritious option packed with veggies that provides a light contrast to rich flavors.
5. Grilled Zucchini – Lightly seasoned zucchini offers freshness while complementing the dish’s earthiness.
6. Couscous with Lemon Zest – Fluffy couscous brightened with lemon zest adds brightness and texture to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Marsala, even minor errors can affect the dish’s overall flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
• Skipping the Flour Dredge: Not dredging the chicken in flour can result in less flavorful and poorly browned meat. Always coat it lightly for better searing.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can diminish the dish’s flavor. Opt for fresh thyme and oregano for a vibrant taste.
• Ignoring the Sauce Reduction: Failing to reduce the sauce properly can make it watery. Simmer until thickened to enhance its richness.
• Using Low-Quality Mushrooms: Cheap mushrooms can lack flavor. Choose fresh cremini or button mushrooms for a more delicious dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Marsala in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Marsala

• Place cooled Chicken Marsala in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Marsala

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place in a baking dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, stirring gently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Marsala.

What is Chicken Marsala?

Chicken Marsala is an Italian-American dish featuring pan-seared chicken cutlets cooked with mushrooms and finished with a rich marsala wine sauce.

How do I make Chicken Marsala gluten-free?

To make Chicken Marsala gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for dredging the chicken.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with pork or veal for variations of this classic dish.

What side dishes pair well with Chicken Marsala?

Serve Chicken Marsala with garlic mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I prepare Chicken Marsala ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and cook the chicken just before serving to maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Marsala is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or using alternative proteins. Try this comforting dish today; you won’t be disappointed!