Chicken Marsala Recipe – An Italian Classic
Chicken Marsala Recipe – An Italian Classic
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Introduction
Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that features tender chicken cutlets sautéed in a savory Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms. This dish is known for its rich, slightly sweet sauce, making it a perfect choice for a special dinner or a cozy weeknight meal. The combination of the Marsala wine with earthy mushrooms and juicy chicken makes it a comforting yet elegant dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Marsala Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup Marsala wine (dry or sweet)
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamy sauce)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Step 1: Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick.
Step 2: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 3: Dredge the chicken in 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, shaking off the excess.
2. Cook the Chicken
Step 1: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Add the floured chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 3: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, covering it loosely with foil to keep warm.
3. Make the Marsala Sauce
Step 1: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are golden and soft.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in 1/2 cup Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Add 3/4 cup chicken broth and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and thicken.
Step 5: If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream at this stage and simmer for 2 more minutes until the sauce is smooth and rich.
4. Combine and Serve
Step 1: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the Marsala sauce and mushrooms over the top.
Step 2: Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors of the sauce.
Step 3: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips
- Chicken Cutlets: To ensure even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This also helps the chicken cook faster and more evenly.
- Marsala Wine: Dry Marsala wine is traditionally used in this dish, but you can use sweet Marsala for a richer, sweeter flavor if you prefer.
- Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add a deeper, more robust flavor, but button mushrooms work just as well for a milder taste.
- Creamy Variation: If you like a creamier sauce, add heavy cream at the end. It gives the dish a richer texture and smooth finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve Chicken Marsala over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Pair it with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp salad.
- Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of Marsala wine or a light red wine such as Pinot Noir to complement the dish's rich flavors.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 500
- Protein: 40 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
- Fat: 30 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
Conclusion
Chicken Marsala is a timeless dish that combines tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a rich Marsala wine sauce. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal. The flavors of the Marsala sauce, enhanced by garlic and mushrooms, make this dish truly special. It’s a quick, easy-to-follow recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results at home. Enjoy the comforting yet elegant taste of this Italian classic!
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This detailed recipe for Chicken Marsala includes comprehensive instructions, cooking tips, and serving suggestions to help you create a delicious and satisfying meal.
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