Chicken Marsala

This Chicken Marsala recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that makes it perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to elegant gatherings. The tender chicken cutlets paired with rich, savory mushrooms and a luscious marsala sauce create an irresistible dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, you can easily impress your guests with this classic Italian-American favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Chicken Marsala comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of marsala apple vinegar and fresh herbs creates a sauce bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside vegetables for a complete meal everyone can enjoy.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful colors and rich textures make this dish look as good as it tastes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its comforting flavors, Chicken Marsala is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

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Tools and Preparation

To make this Chicken Marsala, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking process goes smoothly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Meat mallet
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good-quality skillet allows for even cooking and browning of the chicken and mushrooms.
• Medium saucepan: This is vital for reducing the marsala vinegar and chicken broth to develop concentrated flavors.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine ingredients smoothly, especially when mixing cornstarch into the sauce.
• Meat mallet: Using a meat mallet ensures that chicken cuts are uniform in thickness, leading to even cooking.

Ingredients

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

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1 1/4 cups dry marsala apple vinegar
• 1 1/4 cups unsalted chicken broth
• 2 (10 – 11 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts, (butterflied and halved, pounded to an even thickness)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For Coating the Chicken

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

For Cooking

• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 Tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

• 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)
• 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 Reduction

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

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While the sauce reduces, season both sides of the chicken breasts 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 the seasoned chicken pieces. Sear until cooked through (165°F at center), turning once halfway through cooking, about 10 – 12 minutes. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil.

Step 4: Cook the Mushrooms

Reduce burner temperature to medium heat. In the same skillet, melt remaining butter with olive oil; add sliced mushrooms. Sauté until golden brown, about 8 minutes. Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

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

Step 6: Finish with Cream

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

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with parsley before serving immediately for an impressive finish. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Marsala!

How to Serve Chicken Marsala

Serving Chicken Marsala can elevate your dining experience, making it suitable for both casual meals and special occasions. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its rich flavors.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes make a perfect base to soak up the delicious marsala sauce.

Over Rice Pilaf

• Fluffy rice pilaf provides a light and fragrant complement to the savory chicken.

Accompanied by Steamed Asparagus

• Bright green asparagus adds a pop of color and a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.

Alongside Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread is ideal for mopping up any remaining sauce on your plate.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme brightens the dish and adds a burst of freshness.

How to Perfect Chicken Marsala

To achieve the best Chicken Marsala, follow these simple tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and oregano enhance the dish’s aroma and taste compared to dried versions.
• Sear the chicken properly: Achieve a golden crust by ensuring your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving; small adjustments can elevate your dish significantly.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices for a more succulent bite.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Marsala

Pairing your Chicken Marsala with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the rich sauce.

2. Roasted Broccoli
   Tender roasted broccoli adds a healthy crunch and vibrant color to your plate.

3. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and croutons offer a refreshing contrast to the main course.

4. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with vegetables brings nutty flavors that balance out the richness of Chicken Marsala.

5. Balsamic Glazed Carrots
   Sweet carrots glazed in balsamic vinegar add both sweetness and acidity, enhancing your meal’s flavor profile.

6. Pasta Aglio e Olio
   Simple spaghetti tossed with garlic and olive oil makes for an easy yet flavorful side dish.

7. Crispy Polenta Fries
   These crispy fries are great for dipping into extra marsala sauce or enjoying on their own.

8. Zucchini Noodles
   Light zucchini noodles are a low-carb alternative that soak up all those delicious flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Marsala, it’s essential to be aware of common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Avoid these mistakes for a delicious result.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long results in dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Using low-quality wine: A poor-quality marsala can ruin the flavor. Always use a good quality dry marsala apple vinegar for the best taste.
• Neglecting to season properly: Underseasoned chicken can lack flavor. Make sure to generously season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Not achieving proper browning: Skipping the searing step leads to bland chicken. Sear in hot oil until golden brown for added flavor.
• Forgetting about sauce consistency: A watery sauce can dilute flavors. Let your marsala reduction simmer until it thickens appropriately before adding cream.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Marsala in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Marsala

• Freeze Chicken Marsala in a freezer-safe container.
• It will last for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Chicken Marsala

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and cover the dish with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place Chicken Marsala in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Marsala that may help you perfect this dish.

What is Chicken Marsala?

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish featuring pan-seared chicken cutlets, mushrooms, and a rich marsala sauce.

Can I make Chicken Marsala ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Chicken Marsala ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.

What should I serve with Chicken Marsala?

Serve Chicken Marsala with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How do I customize my Chicken Marsala?

You can add vegetables like asparagus or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor variations.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Marsala is a fantastic dish that combines tender chicken with rich flavors from mushrooms and a savory sauce. Its versatility allows for many customizations, making it suitable for various occasions. Give this recipe a try; you’re sure to impress!