Chicken Marsala

Introduction

Chicken Marsala has become a favorite in my household for its rich, savory flavors and elegant presentation. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and the subtle sweetness of Marsala wine creates a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. I first made this dish for a dinner party, and it was an instant hit. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s bursting with flavor and easy to execute, Chicken Marsala is the way to go!

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Why You’ll Love Chicken Marsala

• Restaurant Quality at Home: This recipe delivers the same richness and depth of flavor you’d expect from a fine dining experience.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip up this impressive dish in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile: Pair it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Elegant Yet Comforting: It’s fancy enough for entertaining guests yet cozy enough for a family dinner.
• Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences, such as adding cream for extra richness or using gluten-free flour for dietary needs.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 4 medium skinless, boneless chicken breast halves (pounded to ¼ inch thick)

For Cooking:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• ½ cup Marsala wine
• ¼ cup cooking sherry

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Flour Mixture

In a shallow dish or bowl, mix together the flour, salt, pepper, and oregano. This will serve as the coating for the chicken, giving it a lightly crisp texture and helping to thicken the sauce.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook until lightly browned on one side, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Mushrooms and Wine

Flip the chicken breasts and add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Pour in the Marsala wine and cooking sherry, ensuring the chicken and mushrooms are coated in the liquid.

Step 5: Simmer

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10 minutes, turning the chicken once midway through. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center, and the juices run clear.

Step 6: Serve

Plate the chicken and spoon the sauce and mushrooms over the top. Serve hot and enjoy the flavors of this classic dish!

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Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories

Macronutrients per serving (approximate):

• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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How to Serve

Chicken Marsala is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

• With Pasta: Serve over linguine or fettuccine to soak up the delicious sauce.
• With Potatoes: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes.
• With Rice: Serve over fluffy white rice or herbed wild rice for a hearty meal.
• With Vegetables: Complement the dish with steamed asparagus, sautéed spinach, or roasted green beans.
• With Bread: Use crusty bread to mop up every bit of the flavorful sauce.

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Additional Tips

1. Use Thin Chicken Breasts: Pounding the chicken to an even ¼-inch thickness ensures even cooking and tender results.
2. Choose Quality Wine: Use a good-quality Marsala wine for the best flavor. Avoid sweetened versions for a more authentic taste.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
4. Add Cream for Extra Richness: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce for a creamier texture.
5. Experiment with Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be added for an extra layer of flavor.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and provide a slightly richer flavor.

2. What is Marsala wine?

Marsala wine is a fortified wine from Italy, commonly used in cooking to add depth and flavor.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.

4. What can I use instead of Marsala wine?

Dry sherry or a mixture of white wine and a splash of brandy can be used as substitutes.

5. Can I make Chicken Marsala ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

6. Can I freeze Chicken Marsala?

Yes, allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

7. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

8. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrients and flavor.

9. Can I use cooking wine?

It’s better to use drinking-quality wine, as cooking wine often contains added salt and preservatives.

10. How do I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, remove the chicken and let the sauce simmer uncovered until it thickens to your liking.

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Conclusion

Chicken Marsala is a timeless recipe that combines simplicity with sophistication. Its rich, savory flavors make it a favorite for both casual dinners and special occasions. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that feels indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, potatoes, or a side of vegetables, this dish is sure to impress every time.

If you loved this recipe, be sure to save it for later and share it with friends and family. Thank you for joining me in the kitchen—happy cooking!

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