Chicken Marsala is a dinner I make when plain chicken starts getting boring.
It takes about 40 minutes to cook, but it looks like a restaurant dinner instead of a quick homemade meal.
The chicken is cooked in a creamy sauce with mushrooms, shallots, chicken broth, and Marsala wine. The sauce is rich, buttery, and really good spooned over mashed potatoes or pasta.
I like recipes like this because the ingredients are simple, the pan does most of the work, and dinner actually looks nice on the table without spending half the evening in the kitchen.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 3 chicken fillets
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 shallots, chopped
- 1 cup Marsala wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
For Serving
- Mashed potatoes
- Fresh herbs
- Asparagus
- Roasted vegetables
- Pasta or rice (optional)
How to Make Chicken Marsala
Slice the chicken fillets in half lengthwise. Place them on a cutting board, cover with plastic wrap, and pound them to an even thickness.
Add the flour to a shallow bowl or plate and coat both sides of the chicken pieces.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Season with salt and pepper while cooking, then transfer the chicken to a plate.
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the chopped shallots. Cook for about 3 minutes until softened.
Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pour in the Marsala wine and let it simmer for about 3 minutes.
Add the chicken broth and whipped cream. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a gentle boil.
Cook the sauce for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes until fully heated through and coated in the sauce.
Serve warm with mashed potatoes, pasta, asparagus, or your favorite vegetables.
FAQ
What is Chicken Marsala?
Chicken Marsala is a chicken dinner made with pan-fried chicken cutlets cooked in a creamy mushroom and Marsala wine sauce.
What does Marsala wine taste like?
Marsala wine has a slightly sweet and rich flavor that gives the sauce its classic taste.
Can I make Chicken Marsala without wine?
Yes. You can replace the Marsala wine with extra chicken broth, although the flavor will be a little different.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes. Boneless skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe too.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Chicken Marsala?
Yes, but creamy sauces can separate slightly after thawing. Stir well while reheating to help bring the sauce back together.
What mushrooms work best?
White mushrooms, cremini mushrooms, or baby bella mushrooms all work well.
What should I serve with Chicken Marsala?
Mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, asparagus, or roasted vegetables all pair nicely with the sauce.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Let the sauce simmer a few extra minutes until it reduces and thickens naturally.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. You can make it earlier in the day and gently reheat it before serving. The flavors are even better after sitting for a while.