This Chicken Marsala features golden pan-fried chicken cutlets in a rich, creamy Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms, shallots, and fresh herbs. A classic Italian-American dish perfect for an easy yet elegant dinner
1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded ¼-inch thick
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
¾ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1 (8-ounce) package pre-sliced bella or button mushrooms
3 tablespoons finely chopped shallots (from 1 medium shallot)
2 cloves garlic, minced
⅔ cup chicken broth
⅔ cup dry Marsala wine
⅔ cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley (for garnish, optional)
In a ziplock bag, combine flour, ¾ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Add the chicken, seal the bag, and shake to coat evenly.
Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Shake off excess flour and add chicken to the pan. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, turning once, until golden and just cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
Melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter in the same pan. Add mushrooms and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often.
Stir in shallots, garlic, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth, Marsala wine, heavy cream, thyme, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ⅛ teaspoon pepper. Scrape up any brown bits from the pan. Bring to a gentle boil and cook uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, until the sauce reduces by half and thickens slightly.
Return the chicken and juices to the pan. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly more.
Garnish with chopped parsley, if using, and serve hot.
Serve with mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
For a richer sauce, you can increase the amount of heavy cream slightly.