Why Make This Recipe
Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that never fails to impress. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and rich, sweet Marsala wine creates a meal that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish stands out for its flavors and visual appeal.
Making Chicken Marsala at home is quite simple and requires only a few key ingredients. The ease of preparation makes it accessible for even novice cooks, while the end result is something that feels gourmet. This recipe is a delicious option for any occasion.
Equipment Needed for Best Chicken Marsala
To make the Best Chicken Marsala, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. First and foremost, a good quality skillet is a must for searing the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
A cutting board and sharp knife will help you in preparing the chicken, shallots, and garlic efficiently. You’ll also need measuring cups and spoons to ensure the proportions are just right. Finally, a spatula or tongs will come in handy when flipping the chicken during cooking.
What You Need to Make Best Chicken Marsala
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup cornstarch (or other flour)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 ounces baby bella or cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped shallot (from about 1 large shallot)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup Marsala wine
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
How to Cook Best Chicken Marsala Step by Step
Start by preparing the chicken. Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create four thinner cutlets. This will allow them to cook faster and absorb more flavor from the sauce.
In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Dredge each chicken cutlet in this mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated.
Next, heat the olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets to the skillet and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining two tablespoons of butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to brown. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped shallots, sautéing for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Now, it’s time to deglaze the pan. Pour in the chicken broth and Marsala wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. This step adds tremendous flavor to your sauce. Allow the mixture to come to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.
Return the chicken to the skillet, making sure to spoon the sauce over each piece. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken through. The flavors will combine beautifully during this last step.
Before serving, sprinkle the dish with finely chopped parsley for a fresh touch and garnish. This will also add a lovely color contrast to the dish.
How to Serve Best Chicken Marsala
When serving Chicken Marsala, presentation is key. First, arrange the chicken cutlets on a large platter or individual plates. Spoon the rich mushroom sauce over each piece, ensuring everyone gets a generous amount of that flavorful sauce.
If you want to elevate the experience, consider garnishing with a bit more fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This adds an extra touch that guests will appreciate.
For a rustic feel, you can serve the dish right in the skillet. Let everyone help themselves, making it a shared dining experience.
What to Serve with Best Chicken Marsala
Chicken Marsala pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. A classic choice is a creamy risotto, which complements the richness of the sauce. Alternatively, you can serve it with garlic mashed potatoes, allowing the gravy to blend into the potatoes.
For a lighter option, consider serving sautéed or steamed vegetables such as green beans or asparagus. A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette can also work well to balance the richness of the dish.
Don’t forget about a good crusty bread! It’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce left on your plate.
How to Store Best Chicken Marsala
If you have any leftovers, Chicken Marsala can be stored easily. Let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
In the refrigerator, the chicken will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. To freeze, place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
When reheating, make sure to gently warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to bring back the sauce’s consistency.
Tips to Make Best Chicken Marsala
To really enhance the flavor of your Chicken Marsala, consider using high-quality Marsala wine. The better the wine, the richer your sauce will be.
Also, taking the time to properly brown the chicken will add depth to the flavor. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lead to steaming rather than searing.
Finally, don’t skip the parsley garnish. It brightens up the dish both in flavor and presentation.
Variation
If you’re looking to put a twist on traditional Chicken Marsala, consider adding different herbs and spices. Thyme and rosemary work particularly well with the flavors of the dish.
You could also create a Marsala sauce with additional vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a unique flavor profile. For a lighter option, you could use chicken breast instead of thighs, if you prefer.
Best Time to Make Best Chicken Marsala
Chicken Marsala is an ideal recipe for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. It cooks quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings, while the elegant flavors make it suitable for dinner parties or holidays.
If you’re planning a gathering, consider making it as your main dish. The impressive taste will leave a lasting impression on your guests and can be made in advance to reduce stress during your event.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the chicken. Thin cutlets should cook quickly, so pay attention to the cooking times and avoid leaving them on the heat for too long.
Additionally, not allowing the sauce to reduce properly can lead to a watery consistency. Allowing it to simmer longer will intensify the flavors and create a rich, luxurious sauce.
Lastly, using low-quality wine can negatively impact the dish. Invest in a decent Marsala wine to ensure your sauce is as flavorful as possible.
Nutritional Notes
Chicken Marsala is a great source of protein, thanks to the chicken breast, and provides important vitamins and minerals from the mushrooms and parsley. However, it does contain cream and butter, which add calories and fat.
For a lighter version, use less cream or substitute it with half-and-half. This will reduce the overall calorie count while still maintaining a creamy texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of wine besides Marsala?
While Marsala wine is traditional, you can use dry white wine or sherry as a substitute. However, the flavor will differ slightly.
2. Is it possible to make Chicken Marsala in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time. Just reheat gently before serving.
3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide a richer flavor, though they may take slightly longer to cook. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Conclusion
Chicken Marsala is an elegant yet easy dish that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of seared chicken, savory mushrooms, and a luscious sauce will undoubtedly impress your family and friends. So grab your ingredients and enjoy a night of delicious cooking with this classic recipe!
