Chicken Marsala | The Perfect Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
Recipe Overview
Overview
Chicken Marsala is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Italian-American cuisine right into your kitchen. The combination of seared chicken breasts and earthy mushrooms creates a satisfying base, while the Marsala wine sauce elevates the dish to new heights. The process is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
One of the standout features of this recipe is the simplicity of the ingredients. With just a few key components, including chicken, mushrooms, shallots, and Marsala wine, you can create a meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. The addition of heavy cream adds a luxurious touch, but for those looking for a dairy-free option, coconut cream works beautifully as a substitute.
The cooking technique is equally accessible. Searing the chicken until golden brown not only locks in moisture but also adds depth to the flavor profile. The mushrooms sautéed in the same pan absorb all the delicious bits left behind, creating a rich sauce that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or even sautéed green beans. This dish is not just about feeding the family; it’s about creating a memorable dining experience.
As you plate your Chicken Marsala, don’t forget to sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. The aroma of the Marsala wine sauce wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, just as it has for many others who appreciate the comforting and flavorful nature of Chicken Marsala.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Wash 8 oz of baby Bella or crimini mushrooms with a wet paper towel or rinse in a colander.
Tip: Gently rub mushrooms with a wet paper towel to clean them.
Tip: Avoid soaking mushrooms in water as they absorb moisture easily.
Slice the cleaned mushrooms.
Slice and dice one large shallot to yield about 1/4 cup.
Chop about 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley.
Slice two large boneless skinless chicken breasts in half horizontally for thinner cutlets.
Tip: Use a sharp knife and keep your hand flat on the chicken to slice it safely.
Mix 1/4 cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, then coat both sides of the chicken.
Tip: Cornstarch can be used as a gluten-free alternative for coating chicken.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of butter in a large pan over medium-high heat.
Tip: Ensure the pan is large enough to fit all chicken pieces for even cooking.
Add the chicken to the pan and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Transfer the seared chicken to a plate.
Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan and toss in the sliced mushrooms, sautéing for 2 to 3 minutes.
Tip: Don't worry about the brown fond in the pan; it will add flavor to the sauce.
Add four minced garlic cloves and the diced shallots to the pan, stirring for 30 seconds.
Add 1 cup of chicken broth and 3/4 cup of Marsala wine to the pan.
Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the sauce.
Tip: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream.
Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until slightly thickened.
Return the chicken to the pan and spoon the sauce over it.
Tip: Simmer the chicken in the sauce to ensure it's warmed through and the sauce thickens.
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish before serving.
Tip: Sprinkle chopped parsley before serving for a fresh touch.
Simmer until the chicken is warmed through, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Tip: Mashed potatoes are great for soaking up the Marsala sauce.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Coconut Cream
Ingredient: Gluten
→ Substitution: Gluten-Free Flour Blend
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Marsala wine is a sweet Italian wine often used in cooking and baking.
- •Searing the chicken creates a golden crust that enhances the dish's flavor.
- •Using pre-sliced mushrooms can save time in preparation.
- •Cornstarch can be used as a gluten-free alternative to flour for coating chicken.
