Chicken Marsala with Mushrooms Recipe

ByEmma

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, savory Marsala sauce and earthy mushrooms. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dinner party. Let’s dive into this delicious and easy-to-make recipe!

Contents

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Sauce:

  • 2 cups cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¾ cup Marsala (dry or sweet, based on preference)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream (optional for a creamier sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

  1. Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness (about ½ inch). This ensures even cooking.
  2. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece lightly in flour, shaking off the excess.

Pro Tip: Pounding the chicken helps it cook quickly and evenly while keeping it tender.

2. Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Mushrooms

  1. In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and softened.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

4. Deglaze the Pan

  1. Pour the Marsala into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This step enhances the sauce’s flavor.
  2. Allow the to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

5. Make the Sauce

  1. Stir in the chicken broth and thyme, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  2. For a creamy version, add the heavy cream and stir until well combined. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Pro Tip: If your sauce isn’t thickening, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce.

6. Combine and Serve

  1. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce and mushrooms over the top. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors.
  2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair this Chicken Marsala with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or a side of steamed vegetables.
  • A crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Marsala

  • Choose the Right Wine: Use a good-quality Marsala for the best flavor. Dry Marsala offers a less sweet, more savory taste, while sweet Marsala adds a hint of sweetness.
  • Don’t Skip the Deglazing: The browned bits from the chicken add depth to the sauce, so take your time deglazing the pan.
  • Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms provide a better texture and flavor compared to canned ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Marsala recipe is a balance of savory, earthy flavors with a touch of sweetness from the . It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but sophisticated enough to serve to guests. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this dish is sure to impress!

More Recipes