Deliciously Easy Chicken Marsala with Mushrooms Recipe

Welcome to your new favorite meal! This easy Chicken Marsala with mushrooms recipe reveals the incredible simplicity and authentic flavors of Italian cuisine right in your kitchen. Chicken Marsala originated from the sunny island of Sicily, Italy, where the rich Marsala wine is produced. The dish combines tender chicken breasts with a savory mushroom sauce made with caramelized onions and fragrant herbs, creating a perfect balance of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner for the family or entertaining guests, this homemade Chicken Marsala with mushrooms from scratch is sure to impress.

Not only is Chicken Marsala incredibly delicious, but it is also straightforward to make. With its elegant presentation and hearty aroma, it captures the essence of Italian comfort food. What’s more, you can easily adjust this recipe for dietary preferences; for instance, you can try a vegan Chicken Marsala with mushrooms by substituting the chicken with plant-based alternatives. Ready to dive into the culinary world of Chicken Marsala? Let’s get started!

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marsala

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup Marsala wine (dry) – substitute with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version
1 cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Possible Ingredient Swaps

Replace butter with ghee or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Use almond milk instead of chicken broth for the sauce to make it lighter.
Switch out chicken breasts for portobello mushrooms to create a tasty vegetarian version.

Equipment List

Cutting board
Sharp knife
Large skillet
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk (optional)
Spatula or wooden spoon
Serving plates

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Begin by placing each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly.
Season and Dredge: Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Next, spread the flour on a plate and dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess flour for a light coating. This will help create a beautiful crust when cooked.
Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow the butter to melt, creating a sizzle that fills your kitchen with warmth.
Cook the Chicken: Carefully place the dredged chicken breasts into the skillet without crowding. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are browned and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning, allowing the mushrooms to caramelize and develop rich flavors.
Incorporate Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the mushrooms and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. The aromatic smell of garlic will intertwine with mushrooms, creating a heavenly base for your sauce.
Deglaze the Pan: Carefully pour in the Marsala wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape the brown bits from the bottom of the pan. This will add depth and richness to your sauce. Cook for about 2 minutes until slightly reduced.
Add Chicken Broth: Stir in the chicken broth and allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-10 minutes until slightly thickened. The aroma will deepen, coaxing your family to the dinner table.
Return Chicken to Skillet: Gently place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the delicious sauce over each piece. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is warmed through and infused with the rich flavors of Marsala.
Finish with Parsley: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. This will add a velvety finish to the sauce. Divide the Chicken Marsala among serving plates, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Special Notes

Storing: Store any leftover Chicken Marsala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to preserve the flavors.
Freezing: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the cooked Chicken Marsala for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Troubleshooting: If the sauce is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or chicken broth until the desired consistency is achieved.

Variations and Customizations

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour to dredge the chicken, ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Vegan Option: Substitute chicken breasts with thick slices of eggplant, marinated tofu, or portobello mushrooms. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and vegan butter.
Low-Carb: Skip the flour dredge and sauté the chicken directly in oil with your favorite low-carb seasoning for a keto-friendly meal.

Nutritional Information

Estimated per serving:

Calories: 360
Protein: 36g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 1g

Engaging Visual Details

As you prepare and cook, your kitchen will fill with enticing aromas of simmering wine and sautéed mushrooms. The Chicken Marsala should have a golden, crispy exterior and a glossy brown sauce that glistens invitingly on a plate. When you serve the dish, consider drizzling extra sauce over the chicken for added visual appeal. Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a pop of color, creating an inviting presentation that looks as delightful as it tastes. Including images of each cooking phase or a video tutorial can guide readers visually through the process, ensuring they achieve the best results.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve mastered this easy Chicken Marsala with mushrooms recipe, it’s time to savor the deliciousness of authentic Italian cooking. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to romantic evenings at home. The delightful balance of flavors will have your guests asking for seconds and remembering the meal long after it’s gone. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try, and feel free to experiment with variations to make it your own. Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe, or share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish!