How to Make Classic Chicken Marsala: A Step-by-Step Recipe

How to Make Classic Chicken Marsala: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Chicken Marsala is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, savory sauce made from Marsala wine, mushrooms, and aromatic spices. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for a weeknight meal. Follow this detailed recipe to create a restaurant-quality Chicken Marsala in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2–3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter

For the Sauce:

8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup Marsala wine
1 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamy sauce)
2 teaspoons fresh thyme or parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create thin cutlets.
Place each cutlet between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound with a mallet until about 1/4-inch thick.
Season the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 2: Dredge the Chicken

Place the flour in a shallow dish.
Lightly coat each chicken cutlet in flour, shaking off any excess.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken cutlets to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter.
Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and tender.

Step 5: Deglaze with Marsala Wine

Pour the Marsala wine into the skillet, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits (this adds flavor!).
Let the wine simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

Stir in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
For a creamy version, add heavy cream and stir until fully incorporated.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet, spooning the sauce and mushrooms over the top.
Simmer for 3–5 minutes to warm the chicken and allow it to absorb the flavors.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh thyme or parsley over the dish for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Serving Suggestions

Pair Chicken Marsala with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Add a side of steamed vegetables like green beans or asparagus for a complete meal.
Serve with crusty bread to enjoy every drop of the flavorful sauce.

Tips for Success

Use Good Marsala Wine: Opt for dry Marsala wine for a savory sauce. Sweet Marsala can also be used but will create a slightly sweeter dish.
Don’t Skip the Browning: Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor to the dish.
Customize the Creaminess: The heavy cream is optional—omit it for a traditional version or include it for a richer sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Marsala is:

Elegant: Perfect for impressing guests or elevating a simple dinner.
Rich in Flavor: The Marsala wine and mushroom sauce are irresistible.
Versatile: Works beautifully with various side dishes.

Enjoy this classic Chicken Marsala recipe for a satisfying meal that combines simplicity with sophistication!