The first time I tried making a chicken marsala recipe at home, I was surprised at how simple it was — and how much it tasted like something from a fancy restaurant. Tender chicken cutlets, earthy mushrooms, and a rich Marsala wine sauce all come together in one skillet. It’s one of those meals that feels special but doesn’t take hours to make, which is exactly why it’s been in my weeknight rotation for years.
What Is Chicken Marsala?
A chicken marsala recipe is an Italian-American dish made with lightly floured chicken breasts, sautéed mushrooms, and a savory sauce made from Marsala wine and chicken broth. It’s creamy, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes. The name comes from Marsala wine, which is produced in Sicily.
Ingredients for Chicken Marsala Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to make the perfect chicken marsala recipe.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 large | Halved and pounded thin |
| All-purpose flour | ½ cup | For dredging |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Butter | 4 tbsp | Adds richness |
| Mushrooms | 8 oz (225g) | Sliced, white or cremini |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Marsala wine | ¾ cup | Sweet or dry, depending on preference |
| Chicken broth | ¾ cup | Low-sodium preferred |
| Heavy cream (optional) | ¼ cup | For a creamier sauce |
| Salt | To taste | |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | Freshly ground |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp | Chopped, for garnish |
Step-by-Step Chicken Marsala Recipe Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken
Cut chicken breasts in half horizontally and pound them to about ¼-inch thickness. Season with salt and pepper, then dredge lightly in flour. Shake off any excess.
Step 2 – Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3 – Cook the Mushrooms
Add remaining butter to the pan. Toss in mushrooms and cook until they’re soft and slightly browned. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Step 4 – Make the Marsala Sauce
Pour Marsala wine into the skillet, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to cook off the alcohol. Add chicken broth and let the sauce reduce slightly. For a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream at this stage.
Step 5 – Combine and Serve
Return the chicken to the pan and spoon the sauce over it. Simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors blend. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Chicken Marsala Recipe
- Pound the chicken evenly so it cooks at the same rate.
- Don’t skip the wine — Marsala is what gives the dish its unique flavor.
- Use fresh mushrooms instead of canned for better texture.
- Add cream if you prefer a richer, smoother sauce.
Variations of Chicken Marsala Recipe
A chicken marsala recipe can be adapted in many ways:
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Swap chicken for turkey cutlets.
- Use dairy-free cream for a lighter version.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Marsala Recipe
This dish works well with:
- Fresh pasta like fettuccine or linguine
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Steamed asparagus or green beans
- Crusty bread for soaking up the sauce
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers from your chicken marsala recipe will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can dry out the chicken.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 10g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Sugar | 3g |
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Chicken Marsala Recipe
- Overcooking the chicken (makes it dry)
- Using cheap wine that’s too acidic
- Skipping the sauce reduction (flavor won’t be as rich)
FAQs – Chicken Marsala Recipe
Q1: Can I make chicken marsala without wine?
Yes, but the flavor will change. You can use extra broth plus a splash of grape juice for sweetness.
Q2: Is sweet or dry Marsala better?
Sweet Marsala gives a richer flavor, while dry is lighter. Both work well — it’s personal preference.
Q3: Can I freeze chicken marsala?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it without the cream added. Add cream after reheating.
Q4: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use olive oil instead of butter and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Final Thoughts on Chicken Marsala Recipe
A chicken marsala recipe is one of those timeless dishes that always delivers — tender chicken, flavorful mushrooms, and a sauce worth mopping up with bread. It’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough for guests. Once you make it at home, you’ll see why it’s a classic in Italian-American cooking.
