Name: Chicken Marsala Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp garlic powder; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ¾ cup Marsala wine (dry preferred); ¾ cup chicken broth; ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for creamy version); 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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If you are craving a dish that brings together elegant flavors and comforting textures, this Chicken Marsala Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, golden chicken cutlets bathed in a luscious, fragrant Marsala wine sauce, enriched with earthy mushrooms and a hint of garlic. It’s classic Italian-American cooking at its finest—simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for special guests. This Chicken Marsala Recipe has become one of my go-to comfort dishes because it delivers sophistication without fuss, layering deep, savory flavors that make every bite worth savoring.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with various ingredients neatly arranged for cooking. In the center is a clear glass bowl holding two pieces of raw, pale pink chicken. Above it is a small transparent measuring cup with milk, next to a white bowl filled with bright yellow oil. To the right, there is a small container of black pepper, a white jar of salt, a light beige cup of flour, a stick of butter, and a whole yellow onion. To the left of the chicken bowl is a green plastic container holding white sliced mushrooms. Below the mushrooms is a glass cup with a light yellow liquid, and to its side are three garlic cloves. At the bottom center is a small white measuring cup with a brown liquid inside. On the lower right side, there is a fresh green bunch of parsley. All items are evenly spaced on the white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Chicken Marsala Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Each element plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding richness, depth, or a touch of freshness to the dish.

Chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts halved horizontally ensures quick, even cooking and tender results.
All-purpose flour: Lightly coating the chicken helps achieve that irresistible golden crust while thickening the sauce just slightly.
Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder: These seasonings enhance the chicken’s natural flavor and give the dish its aromatic base.
Olive oil and unsalted butter: A perfect blend for sautéing that adds richness and a beautiful sear to the chicken.
Mushrooms: Fresh sliced mushrooms bring an earthy, meaty texture that complements the wine sauce perfectly.
Garlic: Just a few cloves minced make the sauce fragrant and lively without overpowering it.
Marsala wine: The star of the show, this dry fortified wine lends a sweet and slightly nutty flavor that defines the dish.
Chicken broth: Balances the wine’s intensity and keeps the sauce beautifully saucy.
Heavy cream (optional): Adds a luscious, velvety finish if you prefer a creamy version of this classic recipe.
Fresh parsley: Brightens everything up with a fresh herbal note for garnish.

How to Make Chicken Marsala Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Begin by halving the chicken breasts horizontally to get thinner cutlets for quick and even cooking. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to elevate the natural flavor of the chicken, preparing it for that perfect pan-sear.

Step 2: Dredge in Flour

Lightly dust each chicken piece in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess. This not only helps create a delectably crisp golden crust but also thickens the Marsala sauce slightly as it cooks.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium-high heat for a rich, savory base. Add the chicken cutlets and cook them for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they achieve a gorgeous golden brown color—this step locks in all the juices and flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic

Remove the chicken and set it aside to rest while you add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook the mushrooms for about 4 to 5 minutes, allowing them to brown and release their delicious earthy juices. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.

Step 5: Build the Marsala Sauce

Pour in the Marsala wine and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, reducing slightly and intensifying in flavor. Follow this with the chicken broth, simmering for another 3 to 4 minutes to balance the wine’s sweetness and enrich the sauce.

Step 6: Add Cream and Return Chicken

Stir in heavy cream if you’re opting for a creamy Marsala sauce—this step transforms the dish into something extra silky and indulgent. Then, nestle the chicken cutlets back into the sauce and simmer gently for 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and perfectly infused with all those marvelous flavors.

How to Serve Chicken Marsala Recipe

This image shows a close-up of cooked chicken pieces covered in a creamy light brown sauce with sliced mushrooms. The chicken pieces are golden brown with a slight crispy texture on top. The sauce is creamy and smooth, pooling around and slightly covering the chicken. The mushrooms are soft, cooked, and scattered on top of the chicken and sauce with bits of fresh green herbs sprinkled over everything. The scene is set against a white marbled texture background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The easiest way to add an inviting pop of color and freshness is with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley right before serving. It brightens the dish visually and complements the richness of the sauce with its herbal tone.

Side Dishes

Chicken Marsala pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes or a bed of buttery pasta soak up every drop of that heavenly sauce. For a lighter touch, roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad keep the meal balanced and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For a bit of flair, serve your Chicken Marsala on a rustic wooden board with slices of crusty bread to mop up the sauce. Or, place the chicken over a vibrant swirl of polenta or risotto for an elegant plating that wow guests effortlessly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Marsala keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal that tastes just as fantastic.

Freezing

To freeze, cool the chicken and sauce completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve its texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and the chicken tender. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help revive the sauce if it’s thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring extra juiciness and richness to this Chicken Marsala Recipe while still absorbing the wonderful Marsala sauce beautifully.

What type of Marsala wine is best?

Dry Marsala wine is preferred for an authentic, balanced flavor that isn’t too sweet. It provides a slightly nutty, deep taste that sets this dish apart.

Is the heavy cream necessary?

No, the heavy cream is optional. Leaving it out results in a lighter, more traditional Marsala sauce, while adding it creates a creamy, luxurious texture.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend to keep the recipe gluten-free without losing that crisp coating on the chicken.

What should I serve with Chicken Marsala for a complete meal?

Consider classic sides like mashed potatoes, fettuccine, or polenta. Steamed or roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to round out the meal.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Marsala Recipe is a treasure of Italian-American cuisine that effortlessly combines simple ingredients with elegant flavors. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to treat yourself or impress loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become one of your favorites too. So grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy the warm, satisfying taste of home-cooked Italian comfort at its best.