Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish known for its rich and savory flavors. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to make, making it perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and sweet Marsala wine creates a flavor profile that is simply irresistible.
- With a quick prep time and easy-to-follow instructions, this dish is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks alike.
- Chicken Marsala is a great option for meal prep as it reheats well and tastes even better the next day.
Ingredient Notes:
- medium boneless skinless chicken breasts
- kosher salt
- ground black pepper
- all-purpose flour
- extra-virgin olive oil
- unsalted butter
- shallot
- garlic
- cremini, shiitake, or mixed wild mushrooms
- dry Marsala wine
- sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar
- chicken broth
- fresh thyme or parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour.
- Heat oil and butter in a pan, then cook the chicken until golden brown.
- Sauté shallots, garlic, and mushrooms until tender.
- Deglaze the pan with Marsala wine, vinegar, and chicken broth.
- Simmer until the sauce thickens, then stir in fresh herbs before serving.
Helpful Tips:
- For a richer sauce, use a combination of different mushrooms.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through without overcooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken to ensure a crispy exterior.
Serving Suggestions:
Chicken Marsala pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or a simple green salad. For drinks, try serving with a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store leftovers, place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
- Yes, bone-in chicken can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Can I substitute the Marsala wine with something else?
- You can substitute Marsala wine with a mixture of chicken broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar flavor.
- Can I freeze Chicken Marsala?
- It is not recommended to freeze this dish as the sauce may separate upon thawing.
- Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
While fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, dried herbs can be used as a substitute (use half the amount).
Conclusion:
Indulge in the rich flavors of Chicken Marsala with this easy-to-follow recipe. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!
PrintChicken Marsala
Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich Marsala wine and mushroom sauce. It’s a savory and comforting meal perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 3 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, divided
- 1 medium shallot, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 8 ounces sliced cremini, shiitake, or mixed wild mushrooms (increase to up to 16 ounces if you are a mushroom lover)
- ½ cup dry Marsala wine (not cooking wine) or more chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme or 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with ½ teaspoon salt and pepper. Dredge in flour.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining oil and butter. Sauté shallot, garlic, and mushrooms until softened. Add Marsala wine, vinegar, chicken broth, thyme, and remaining salt. Simmer until sauce thickens.
- Finish the Dish: Return chicken to skillet. Cook for a few more minutes until heated through. Serve hot with sauce spooned over the top.
Notes
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a little flour with water and whisk it into the sauce to thicken.
- You can serve Chicken Marsala over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg