Classic Chicken Marsala
Description
Classic Chicken Marsala is a restaurant-quality dish made with lightly floured pan-seared chicken simmered in a savory Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms, butter, and herbs. It’s elegant yet simple, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The sauce is slightly sweet, earthy, and deeply flavorful.
Time Required
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken
2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (halved horizontally into cutlets)
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
3 tbsp olive oil
For the Marsala Sauce
8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button)
3 cloves garlic, minced
¾ cup Marsala wine (dry preferred)
¾ cup chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream (optional, for creamy version)
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp fresh thyme or ½ tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Slice chicken breasts horizontally to create thin cutlets.
Place between plastic wrap and gently pound to even thickness (about ½ inch).
Mix flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
Dredge chicken lightly in flour, shaking off excess.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Transfer to a plate and cover loosely.
3. Cook the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, add mushrooms.
Cook 5–7 minutes until browned and moisture evaporates.
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Make the Marsala Sauce
Pour in Marsala wine and scrape browned bits from the pan.
Simmer 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add chicken broth and thyme.
Simmer 5–7 minutes until sauce thickens.
5. Optional Creamy Version
Stir in heavy cream for a richer sauce.
Simmer 2–3 minutes until smooth.
6. Finish the Dish
Return chicken to the pan.
Add remaining butter and simmer 2–3 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Serving Suggestions
Buttery mashed potatoes
Pasta or egg noodles
Steamed vegetables
Rice or risotto
Crusty bread for dipping
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Marsala wine?
Marsala is a fortified cooking wine with a slightly sweet, nutty flavor that creates the signature sauce.
2. Can I make it without wine?
Yes. Substitute with:
Extra chicken broth + 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
White grape juice + splash of vinegar
(Flavor will differ from classic.)
3. Should I use sweet or dry Marsala?
Dry Marsala: Traditional and savory
Sweet Marsala: Slightly sweeter sauce
4. Why dredge the chicken in flour?
It helps create a golden crust and thickens the sauce naturally.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Store in refrigerator up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth.
6. Can I freeze Chicken Marsala?
Yes, though cream-based versions may slightly separate. Freeze up to 2 months.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
(Values vary by ingredients and portion size)
Calories: 420–480 kcal
Protein: 38 g
Fat: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 520 mg