Chicken Marsala

This Chicken Marsala recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that brings the essence of Italian-American cooking to your dining table. Featuring tender chicken cutlets and savory mushrooms, this dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The rich marsala apple vinegar sauce elevates the dish, making it a standout option for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Chicken Marsala comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of marsala apple vinegar, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering sauce that pairs beautifully with chicken.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It’s adaptable to your favorite sides!
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish to impress guests; the golden-brown chicken and vibrant mushrooms look stunning on any plate.
• Comfort Food Classic: This recipe embodies warm, comforting flavors that are sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

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Tools and Preparation

To make Chicken Marsala, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can enhance your cooking experience and ensure better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Meat mallet
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even searing of the chicken, ensuring a golden crust while keeping the meat juicy inside.
• Medium saucepan: Used for reducing the marsala apple vinegar and chicken broth mixture, crucial for developing rich flavors.
• Whisk: Helps to combine ingredients smoothly when mixing cornstarch with broth, preventing lumps in your sauce.

Ingredients

This classic Italian-American chicken recipe includes tender, perfectly pan seared chicken cutlets, flavor-enhancing browned mushrooms, all covered with a richly seasoned marsala apple vinegar, garlic, and herb sauce.

For the Chicken Marsala

• 1 1/4 cups dry marsala apple vinegar
• 1 1/4 cups unsalted chicken broth
• 2 (10 – 11 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts (butterflied and halved, pounded to an even thickness)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 8 oz. cremini mushrooms (sliced)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced (1 Tbsp))
• 1 tsp minced fresh thyme (or scant 1/2 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp minced fresh oregano (or scant 1/2 tsp dried)
• 1 1/2 tsp cornstarch (whisked with 1 Tbsp chicken broth in a small bowl until well combined)
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 Tbsp minced fresh parsley

How to Make Chicken Marsala

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Add marsala apple vinegar and chicken broth to a medium saucepan. Heat over medium-high heat, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and let gently boil until reduced to 1 cup, about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Meanwhile season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge each side in flour.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Melt 1 Tbsp butter with 1 Tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and let sear until cooked through (165°F in center), turning once halfway through cooking time, about 10 – 12 minutes.

Step 4: Transfer Chicken

Transfer cooked chicken to a plate. Tent with foil to keep warm.

Step 5: Cook Mushrooms

Reduce burner temperature to medium heat. Melt remaining 1 Tbsp butter with 1 Tbsp olive oil in the same skillet. Add mushrooms. Sauté mushrooms just tossing occasionally until they have shrunk and are golden brown, about 8 minutes. Add garlic during last minute of sautéing.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Remove pan from heat then pour in the marsala reduction along with thyme and oregano. Return to heat, bring to a simmer while scraping up browned bits from bottom of pan.

Step 7: Thicken Sauce

Stir in cornstarch mixture until thickened.

Step 8: Finish Sauce

Off heat stir in heavy cream; season sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Return chicken breasts to pan; spoon sauce over top.

Step 9: Serve

Sprinkle with parsley and serve immediately!

How to Serve Chicken Marsala

Chicken Marsala is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Pasta

• Linguine or Fettuccine: Tossed lightly in olive oil and garlic, these pasta types complement the rich sauce beautifully.
• Penne Arrabbiata: This spicy tomato sauce adds a kick that contrasts nicely with the creamy Chicken Marsala.

Over Rice

• White Rice: A classic choice, it soaks up the delicious sauce, making each bite flavorful.
• Risotto: Creamy risotto enhances the luxury of Chicken Marsala and adds an elegant touch to your plate.

Garnished with Greens

• Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds color and health benefits, balancing the richness of the dish.
• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the tender chicken.

With Bread

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce, garlic bread adds a delightful crunch to your meal.
• Crusty French Baguette: Slice it up to enjoy with your Chicken Marsala; it’s perfect for dipping!

How to Perfect Chicken Marsala

Creating the perfect Chicken Marsala involves attention to detail. Follow these tips for an unforgettable dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality chicken enhance flavor significantly.
• Pound the Chicken Evenly: Ensure uniform thickness for even cooking and tenderness throughout.
• Don’t Rush the Searing Process: Allow enough time for browning; this step builds flavor through caramelization.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! It’s easier to add salt and pepper than to correct over-seasoning.
• Let Sauce Thicken Properly: A well-thickened sauce clings better to the chicken, enhancing every bite.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Marsala

Pairing sides with Chicken Marsala can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they provide a comforting base that complements the sauce.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Adds a crunchy texture while bringing vibrant color to your plate.
3. Steamed Broccoli: The slight bitterness of broccoli balances out the richness of Chicken Marsala perfectly.
4. Cauliflower Gratin: A cheesy side that offers a delightful creaminess alongside the savory chicken dish.
5. Quinoa Salad: A healthy option packed with protein; toss it with vegetables for added freshness.
6. Herb Couscous: Light and fluffy, couscous absorbs flavors well and makes an ideal accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken Marsala, even small missteps can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Failing to pound the chicken: Not pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness can lead to uneven cooking. Take the time to ensure they are uniform in size.
• Using low-quality marsala vinegar: A poor-quality marsala can ruin the dish’s flavor. Always choose a good dry marsala apple vinegar for the best results.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many chicken pieces or mushrooms in the skillet can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary for that perfect sear.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoned chicken will lack flavor. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Skipping the reduction step: Failing to reduce the sauce properly will result in a watery dish. Make sure to allow enough time for it to thicken for rich flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Marsala

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Marsala

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Marsala:

What is Chicken Marsala?

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish featuring chicken cutlets cooked with mushrooms and a sweet marsala wine sauce.

Can I use different types of mushrooms?

Yes! You can substitute cremini with other varieties like button mushrooms or shiitake for different flavors and textures.

How do I make Chicken Marsala gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for dredging.

Can I add vegetables to Chicken Marsala?

Absolutely! Asparagus, spinach, or even bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with Chicken Marsala?

This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or creamy polenta along with a side of vegetables or salad.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Marsala is not only delicious but also versatile. This comforting recipe makes an excellent dinner option that you can easily customize by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. Try it out and enjoy its rich flavors!