Classic Italian Chicken Marsala Recipe

Ingredients

4 boneless chicken breasts
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
4 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup sliced mushrooms
3/4 cup Marsala wine
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Steps and instructions

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then dredge them in flour.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are browned and their liquid has been released.
Add the Marsala wine to the skillet, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits.
Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, about 10 to 15 minutes.
Sprinkle the dish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tools for making

Skillet - A wide and shallow cooking pan used for sautéing and simmering the chicken marsala.
Tongs - A utensil with two long arms and a pivot near the handle, used for flipping and handling the chicken breasts.
Whisk - A kitchen tool used for blending and mixing the sauce ingredients together.
Measuring cups and spoons - Tools for accurately measuring the flour, Marsala wine, chicken broth, and other ingredients.
Spatula - A flat, flexible utensil used for flipping the chicken and stirring the mushrooms.
Cutting board - A flat surface used for slicing the mushrooms and chopping fresh parsley.
Knife - A sharp blade used for cutting the mushrooms and parsley.
Plate - A dish used for dredging the chicken breasts in flour.
Serving dish - A platter or plate for presenting the cooked chicken marsala.

Recipe variations

Use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless chicken breasts.
Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
Add a tablespoon of minced garlic to the mushroom sauté for extra flavor.
Substitute Marsala wine with Madeira wine for a slightly different flavor profile.
Try using a different type of mushroom, such as cremini or shiitake.
Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer consistency.
For a meat-free option, substitute the chicken with tofu or seitan.
Add a tablespoon of capers to the sauce for a tangy twist.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish before serving.
Serve the Chicken Marsala over a bed of cooked pasta or mashed potatoes.

Recipe overview

This flavorful Chicken Marsala recipe is a classic Italian dish that's sure to impress your dinner guests. The recipe involves tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich and savory Marsala wine sauce with sautéed mushrooms. It's a simple dish that's ready in about 30 minutes but tastes like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen. With its rich flavors and appealing presentation, this Chicken Marsala recipe is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special family meal. Enjoy this delicious dish served over pasta or alongside roasted vegetables.

Common questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as chicken thighs may take longer to cook.
Can I substitute Marsala wine with another type of wine? While Marsala wine provides a unique flavor to the dish, you can substitute it with dry white wine or a combination of dry red and sweet white wine if needed.
Can I make this recipe without alcohol? Yes, if you prefer to omit the wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of chicken broth or a combination of broth and grape juice for a similar flavor profile.
What side dishes go well with Chicken Marsala? Chicken Marsala pairs well with various side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a simple green salad.
Can I prepare Chicken Marsala in advance? While it's best to enjoy Chicken Marsala immediately after cooking, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble the dish when ready to serve.
What is the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftover Chicken Marsala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Skillet - A skillet is needed to cook the chicken and prepare the Marsala sauce.
Tongs - Tongs are useful for flipping and handling the chicken breasts while cooking.
Chef's knife - A sharp chef's knife is essential for slicing the mushrooms and chopping the parsley.
Cutting board - A sturdy cutting board provides a safe and stable surface for chopping ingredients.
Spatula - A spatula can be used to stir the sauce and help scrape up any browned bits from the skillet.
Measuring cups and spoons - Measuring cups and spoons are necessary for accurately measuring the flour, Marsala wine, chicken broth, and other ingredients.
Plate - A plate is needed to transfer the cooked chicken breasts onto before serving.

Origin stories

Chicken Marsala, a dish renowned for its rich flavors and elegant presentation, originates from the western coastal region of Sicily in Italy. The name "Marsala" refers to the Marsala wine produced in the city of the same name, a key ingredient that gives the dish its distinctive, robust flavor. Interestingly, Marsala wine itself was created by an Englishman, John Woodhouse, in the late 18th century, who fortified the local Sicilian wine with brandy to better preserve it during long sea voyages. Today, Chicken Marsala is a beloved dish worldwide, a testament to the allure of Italian cuisine.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.