Easy Chicken Marsala Recipe

Easy Chicken Marsala Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 (6 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
  • 1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
  • cup chopped green onion
  • cup Marsala wine
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup milk

Directions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Saute chicken breasts in the hot oil for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until cooked through and the juices run clear.
  3. Add the sliced mushrooms and chopped green onions to the pan. Saute for a few minutes until the vegetables become soft.
  4. Pour in the Marsala wine, stir, and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it boil for 2 to 4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then stir in the heavy cream and milk.
  6. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and everything to heat through.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient Amount % Daily Value*
Calories 388
Total Fat 20g 25%
Saturated Fat 7g 33%
Cholesterol 127mg 42%
Sodium 125mg 5%
Total Carbohydrate 5g 2%
Dietary Fiber 0g 1%
Protein 41g 81%
Vitamin C 4mg 4%
Calcium 47mg 4%
Iron 2mg 8%
Potassium 553mg 12%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Easy Chicken Marsala

Author: Sara

Rating: 4.4 (242 reviews)

Recipe Summary

This simple yet delicious Chicken Marsala recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a rich sauce made from Marsala wine, cream, and mushrooms. The dish is quick and easy to make, perfect for a gourmet dinner that doesnt require much effort. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 (6 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
  • 1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
  • cup chopped green onion
  • cup Marsala wine
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • cup heavy cream
  • cup milk

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Saut chicken in hot oil until cooked through and juices run clear, about 15 to 20 minutes.
  2. Add mushrooms and green onions to the pan and saut until soft. Add Marsala wine and bring to a boil.
  3. Continue to boil for 2 to 4 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in cream and milk, and simmer until heated through, about 5 minutes.

History of Chicken Marsala

Chicken Marsala has its roots in Italian cuisine, specifically from the island of Sicily. The dish is named after Marsala, a fortified wine produced in the region. While it's now widely enjoyed in many parts of the world, the dish originally came about as a result of the importation of Marsala wine to the island in the 18th century. Over time, chefs began pairing the wine with local meats and poultry, leading to the creation of the classic Chicken Marsala.

Regional Variations

Chicken Marsala is primarily associated with Sicilian cuisine, but it has been embraced and adapted across Italy and beyond. In some regions of Italy, variations of the dish may use different wines or add ingredients like garlic or fresh herbs for added flavor. In the United States, Chicken Marsala has become a popular Italian-American dish, with some recipes incorporating cream or butter to enrich the sauce.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Chicken Marsala stands out from similar poultry dishes like Chicken Piccata or Chicken Parmesan due to its distinctive use of Marsala wine. While Chicken Piccata features a lemony and tangy sauce made with white wine, and Chicken Parmesan is breaded and topped with marinara sauce and cheese, Chicken Marsala is characterized by its savory, slightly sweet wine sauce. The addition of mushrooms gives the dish a deep, earthy flavor that sets it apart from other classic chicken dishes.

Where to Serve Chicken Marsala

Chicken Marsala is commonly served in Italian-American restaurants and fine dining establishments. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, pasta, or sauted vegetables. The dish is often enjoyed with a glass of Marsala wine, enhancing its rich flavors. It's an excellent choice for a dinner party or special occasion, thanks to its elegant presentation and balanced flavors.

Interesting Facts About Chicken Marsala

  • Despite being a staple in Italian-American restaurants, Chicken Marsala is considered more of a New World creation, with its widespread popularity in the U.S. being linked to the Italian immigrant community.
  • The Marsala wine used in this dish is a fortified wine, similar in style to Sherry or Madeira, and is often used in cooking due to its rich, sweet flavor.
  • While Chicken Marsala is a beloved dish, it has variations that include pork, veal, and even fish as the protein base.
  • Some modern twists on Chicken Marsala use balsamic vinegar for a slightly tangy kick or incorporate different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or cremini, for a more robust taste.

FAQ about Easy Chicken Marsala Recipe

Yes, you can store leftover Chicken Marsala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. If you have leftover sauce, store it separately to prevent the chicken from becoming too soggy. It's not recommended to freeze Chicken Marsala as the cream-based sauce may separate when thawed.

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it's best to cook the chicken fresh just before serving to maintain its tenderness. If you do decide to make the chicken ahead, reheat it gently to avoid overcooking.

Yes, if you don't have Marsala wine, you can substitute it with Madeira wine, dry sherry, or even a combination of grape juice and a splash of brandy. Keep in mind that these substitutes may slightly alter the flavor profile of the dish.

Yes, chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts. They will add a richer flavor and are slightly more forgiving if overcooked, as they remain tender and juicy. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of the thighs.

To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it longer to reduce it, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water. Another option is to add a little more cream or even a splash of heavy cream. Be sure to adjust the seasoning as needed after thickening.

Yes, you can omit the mushrooms if you prefer or are unable to find them. You can substitute with other vegetables like onions, spinach, or bell peppers. Alternatively, you can increase the amount of green onions or add some garlic for additional flavor.

Chicken Marsala pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, pasta (like spaghetti or linguine), rice, or a side of roasted vegetables. A simple salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness of the dish.

Yes, you can omit the milk. Some people choose to use only heavy cream for a richer sauce. If you'd like to make the dish lighter, you can substitute the milk with a lower-fat option, such as half-and-half or evaporated milk.

To adjust the recipe for more servings, simply increase the amounts of each ingredient proportionally. For example, if you want to double the recipe, use 8 chicken breasts, 2 cups of Marsala wine, and 2/3 cup of heavy cream. Keep in mind that you may need a larger skillet or multiple pans to accommodate the increased ingredients.

If you're looking to reduce the richness or need a substitute for heavy cream, you can use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or even a non-dairy cream alternative, such as coconut cream or almond milk. Note that non-dairy options may alter the flavor slightly.

Comments

George Hernandez

07/23/2024 07:57:31 AM

This meal was a pleasant surprise! Initially, I was hesitant after picking up sweet Marsala wine following the recipe, fearing I might mess it up. To my delight, it turned out just as delicious, if not better. I decided to skip the sherry, cream, and milk, and the sauce still came out fantastic. I researched numerous recipes from different sources before attempting this, and while I had made Chicken Marsala before, I couldn't recall the exact method. I used two cans of drained mushrooms, two tablespoons of bottled minced garlic, and sautéed them with a diced onion in the same pan after cooking the chicken. Flouring and frying the chicken is crucial, in my opinion. I seasoned the flour with dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper instead of seasoning the chicken directly. Serving it over spaghetti was a hit, but be sure to have enough sauce—I ended up using the entire bottle of Marsala wine for six chicken breasts, along with chicken broth. By skipping the cream, milk, and sherry, the dish still turned out restaurant-quality.

Sarah Ramirez

10/19/2023 11:37:44 PM

Fantastic combination of tastes. I took the suggestion to brown the chicken with green onions, then set it aside. Next, I sautéed mushrooms with Marsala wine, followed by adding chicken broth, salt, pepper, and garlic. After a few minutes, I returned the chicken to the pan and let it cook covered for 10 minutes, then uncovered for another 10. A splash of cream balanced and enhanced the flavors, creating a delicious sauce for the linguine accompaniment. Garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and visual appeal, the dish turned out absolutely delicious.

Ryan Martinez

12/17/2024 11:53:58 PM

Great recipe! I substituted sweet onion for green onion, marsala wine for the sauce, evaporated milk for heavy cream, and cooked the chicken separately while making the sauce. Big thanks to the recipe creator and everyone who shared their substitution tips!

Nathan Walker

11/25/2022 01:58:24 AM

Review rewritten: Absolutely delicious! I followed some recommendations from other reviewers and made a few adjustments. I removed the chicken after browning and kept it warm in the oven while cooking the sauce separately. After finishing the sauce, I returned the chicken to the skillet and simmered for 5 minutes. Instead of cooking Sherry, I used Marsala wine, doubling the amount to 1-1/2 cups, and also tripled the mushrooms. I included 1/2 cup of green onions and fresh garlic while sautéing the mushrooms. To the sauce, I added 1/3 cup of cream before reintroducing the chicken. One key tip is to pound the chicken thin for better results.

Jerry Jackson

08/30/2023 07:14:19 PM

My husband and I loved it! I added fresh baby spinach and it was perfect!

Janet Torres

10/04/2023 10:52:31 AM

One star is too generous for this experience, but unfortunately I can't give a negative 10! Absolutely dreadful! I ended up throwing away the entire dinner. The excessive amount of cream completely ruined the meal. It didn't match the recipe I was trying to follow at all. I'm tempted to send you the bill for the time and money I just wasted!