As the sun sets and the kitchen fills with warmth, there’s nothing quite like the inviting aroma of Chicken Marsala wafting through the air. This comforting Italian-American classic features tender chicken enveloped in a rich, slightly sweet Marsala wine sauce, beautifully balanced by earthy mushrooms and fragrant garlic. Every time I whip up this dish, I’m reminded of cozy family dinners and laughter shared around the table.

What I love most about this recipe is its effortless elegance. Imagine serving a restaurant-quality meal that takes minimal time to prepare! Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or looking to impress friends at your next gathering, Chicken Marsala is the perfect solution. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it transforms a regular weeknight into something special.

Even if you’re avoiding alcohol, I’ve got you covered with easy substitutions that maintain the dish’s delightful flavor. So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe and bring a taste of Italy to your dinner table!

Why Is Chicken Marsala a Must-Try?

Comfort Food Redefined: Bring a slice of Italy into your home with this delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich sauce!

Quick Preparation: Impress your family without the fuss – this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner parties.

Flavorful Sauce: The sweet and savory Marsala wine sauce, complemented by earthy mushrooms, creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Versatile Dish: Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered egg noodles, making it adaptable for your taste preferences or whatever you have on hand.

Crowd Pleaser: This popular Italian-American classic will make you the star of any gathering, as its comforting flavors appeal to everyone!

Alcohol-Free Option Available: Enjoy a fantastic meal, even if you prefer to skip the wine; easily substitute with chicken broth and balsamic vinegar.

Chicken Marsala Ingredients

Get ready to create a delightful dish!

For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Use thinly pounded pieces for even cooking and a tender bite.
• Flour – Perfect for dredging, it gives the chicken a light, crispy crust.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate the flavors of your Chicken Marsala.

For the Sauce
• Olive Oil & Butter – A combination that adds richness and helps achieve that beautiful golden brown color.
• Mushrooms – Use fresh cremini or button mushrooms for an earthy depth of flavor.
• Shallot – Adds a sweet, mellow flavor that perfectly complements the sauce.
• Garlic – Minced to unleash its intense aroma and robust taste.
• Marsala Wine – The star of the sauce; dry Marsala is key for that authentic flavor.
• Chicken Broth – Enhances the sauce’s depth and adds a savory note.
• Heavy Cream (optional) – For those who prefer a touch of creaminess; it’s delightful but can be skipped.

Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – Sprinkle on top for a pop of color and a fresh finish to this comforting dish.

With these simple ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to mastering an easy Chicken Marsala recipe that warms the heart and satisfies the soul!

How to Make Chicken Marsala

Prepare Chicken: Start by pounding chicken breasts to about half an inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly. Season flour with salt and pepper; this will be your flavorful coating.
Dredge Chicken: Coat each chicken piece in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. This gives the chicken a lovely light crust once cooked.
Cook Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through. Set aside the chicken once done.
Sauté Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and shallots. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, until they are softened and aromatic.
Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic, cooking for just 1 minute until fragrant. This will enhance the flavors of your dish beautifully.
Deglaze with Marsala: Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow it to reduce by half, which should take about 5 minutes.
Thicken Sauce: Add chicken broth to the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Return the chicken to the pan and let everything simmer together for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Finish Sauce: If using, stir in heavy cream for a touch of creaminess and heat through without boiling. This makes your sauce even richer and more indulgent.
Serve: Plate your chicken and generously spoon that luscious sauce over it. Garnish with fresh parsley for an eye-catching finish.

Optional: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to soak up every drop of the delicious sauce.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Chicken Marsala

• Pound Evenly: Ensure your chicken breasts are pounded to uniform thickness for even cooking and to avoid dry spots.

• Flavorful Browning: Don’t wipe your skillet after cooking the chicken; those browned bits are packed with flavor and will enrich your sauce.

• Adjusting Thickness: If your sauce is too thin, mix a cornstarch slurry (1:1 ratio of cornstarch and water) to thicken it up effortlessly.

• Quality Marsala: Always use dry Marsala for the best taste. If you’re opting for a non-alcoholic version, a mix of chicken broth and balsamic vinegar works beautifully.

• Fresh Herbage: Enhance flavors by adding a touch of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce while simmering; it complements the Chicken Marsala beautifully.

• Rest Before Serving: For the juiciest chicken, let it rest for a few minutes after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute before serving.

Make Ahead Options

Chicken Marsala is a fantastic recipe for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the chicken and coat it in seasoned flour up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can sauté the mushrooms and shallots and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, just heat the vegetables, follow up with the garlic, and deglaze with Marsala. Finally, add the broth and chicken back into the skillet; it will be just as delicious as if made fresh! This way, you save time while still enjoying a comforting homemade meal on busy weeknights.

What to Serve with Chicken Marsala?

Transform your Chicken Marsala into a memorable dining experience with delightful side dishes and beverages that complement its rich flavors.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture perfectly soaks up the luscious Marsala sauce, making each bite irresistible.
Buttered Egg Noodles: Their soft, chewy bite acts as a wonderful canvas for the savory sauce, enhancing the meal’s comfort level.
Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for mopping up sauce, adding a comforting crunch to your plate.
Sautéed Green Beans: Their fresh, crisp texture balances the dish with a pop of color, creating a beautiful contrast against the rich sauce.
Roasted Asparagus: Earthy and vibrant, roasted asparagus provides a lovely crunch and elevates your meal with its delicate flavors.
Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons offer a refreshing crunch, making the perfect starting course to your dinner.
Red Wine: A glass of dry red wine like Chianti enhances the flavors of your Chicken Marsala while adding to the Italian dining experience.
Tiramisu: Finish your meal with this classic Italian dessert; its creamy, coffee-infused layers provide a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.

Storage Tips for Chicken Marsala

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Marsala in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, place cooled Chicken Marsala in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months; label for easy identification.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce silky smooth.
Airing Out: If storing in the fridge, avoid sealing tightly until the dish has cooled to prevent condensation, which can affect the delectable sauce of your Chicken Marsala.

Chicken Marsala Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own! Each variation brings a unique twist to the beloved classic.

Non-Alcoholic: Swap Marsala wine with equal parts chicken broth and balsamic vinegar for a deliciously rich sauce without the alcohol.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary while simmering for an aromatic boost that elevates the flavors of the sauce.
Creamy Add-In: For a richer sauce, introduce a dollop of mascarpone or a splash of cream cheese alongside the heavy cream.
Mushroom Medley: Experiment with wild mushrooms like shiitake or oyster for a more complex flavor profile and texture.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick, transforming your dish into a delightful spicy treat.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in spinach or kale during the final simmer for a nutritious twist that adds color and texture.
Pasta Partner: Serve the Chicken Marsala over spaghetti or fettuccine instead of traditional sides, creating a hearty meal that’s both filling and satisfying.
Colorful Garnish: Enhance presentation by topping with a sprinkle of fresh chives or basil, adding both visual appeal and fresh flavor notes.

Chicken Marsala Recipe FAQs

What type of mushrooms should I use for Chicken Marsala?
I recommend using fresh cremini or button mushrooms as they bring an earthy flavor that complements the dish beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try shiitake mushrooms for a more robust taste!

How should I store leftover Chicken Marsala?
Leftover Chicken Marsala can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To maintain its rich flavors, reheat gently in a skillet. Don’t rush this—the slower, the better to keep that sauce silky and delicious!

Can I freeze Chicken Marsala? What’s the best way?
Absolutely! To freeze Chicken Marsala, let it cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

What can I substitute for Marsala wine if I want a non-alcoholic option?
If you’re looking to avoid alcohol, a lovely substitute is a mix of chicken broth and balsamic vinegar. Use about 3 parts chicken broth to 1 part balsamic vinegar for that sweet and tangy flavor, which will still create a delightful sauce for your Chicken Marsala!

How can I tell if my chicken is cooked through?
The best way to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked is by using an instant-read thermometer—165°F (75°C) is your magic number! If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part of the chicken; it should be opaque and the juices should run clear, not pink.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your Chicken Marsala sauce is thicker than desired, don’t worry! Simply whisk in a bit of chicken broth or water over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This will help keep it deliciously smooth without sacrificing flavor!