One of my favorite at-home date night meals is Chicken Marsala. When I first made it for my partner—I was nervous, but as soon as that creamy, flavorful sauce came together, I knew it was a winner.
Paired with a glass of wine and some crusty bread, it felt like a restaurant-quality meal right in our kitchen. Now, it’s our go-to for a cozy, special dinner!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Marsala
- Rich and Creamy – The blend of Marsala wine and heavy cream creates a luxurious, velvety sauce.
- Easy to Make – Despite its gourmet feel, this dish comes together in under an hour.
- Versatile Pairing Options – Serve it with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Great for Meal Prep – Reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor – The perfect balance of savory, creamy, and slightly sweet flavors.
Chicken Marsala Recipe
For this delicious chicken recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds boneless chicken breasts – Cut into thin cutlets for even cooking.
- 10 oz sliced mushrooms – Adds an earthy depth of flavor to the sauce.
- 1 medium finely chopped shallot – Brings a mild, slightly sweet onion flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Enhances the sauce’s richness.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce for a perfect consistency.
- ¾ cup chicken broth – Creates a flavorful base for the sauce.
- ¾ cup dry Marsala wine – Adds a unique depth with its sweet and nutty undertones.
- ½ cup heavy cream – Gives the dish its creamy, indulgent texture.
- 1½ tablespoons olive oil – Used for searing the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme – Brings a fragrant, earthy note.
- Salt & pepper to taste – Adjust to your preference.
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional) – For a fresh, vibrant garnish.
Optional Add-Ons
- Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkle over the dish for extra umami flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a bit of heat for spice lovers.
- Spinach – Toss in some fresh spinach for extra greens.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large Skillet – For searing the chicken and cooking the sauce.
- Sharp Knife – To slice the chicken evenly.
- Cutting Board – Essential for prepping ingredients.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – Ensures accuracy in ingredient portions.
- Tongs – Makes flipping and handling chicken easier.
- Whisk – Helps blend the sauce smoothly.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Marsala
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece lightly in flour, shaking off any excess. This helps create a nice golden crust when searing.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 1½ tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms and Aromatics
In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the mushrooms and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown. Stir in the shallots and garlic, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Sprinkle in the remaining flour and stir to coat the mushrooms, allowing it to cook for about a minute. Slowly pour in the Marsala wine, stirring constantly to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for maximum flavor. Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Chicken
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and thyme, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Return the chicken to the pan and let it simmer for 7-8 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and absorbs the flavors of the sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes!
Best Paired With
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Buttered Egg Noodles – A simple yet classic pairing.
- Steamed Green Beans – Adds a fresh, crunchy contrast.
Storage and Serving
- Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating – Gently warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave.
- Freezing – Best to freeze without the cream; add it fresh when reheating.
Tips for Success
- Use Thin Chicken Cutlets – Ensures even cooking and prevents drying out.
- Don’t Skip the Marsala Wine – It’s the key to the signature flavor.
- Let the Sauce Simmer – This helps develop a richer taste.
- Adjust Thickness – Add more broth if the sauce is too thick or more flour if too thin.
Substitutes and Variations
- Gluten-Free – Use cornstarch instead of flour.
- Dairy-Free – Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream.
- Different Proteins – Try shrimp or pork for a twist.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 535 |
| Protein | 41g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Fat | 29g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 765mg |
What Others Are Saying About This Recipe
Mitch L. – “This was a hit with my whole family! I served it over buttered noodles, and everyone asked for seconds.”
Francis G. – “Absolutely delicious. I added a bit of extra garlic and some parmesan, and it took the dish to another level. Would reco!”
Kristine R. – “I love how creamy and flavorful this was! I made it for date night, and my husband was seriously impressed. He even asked me when I’m making it again, LOL.”
FAQs
Can I use sweet Marsala wine instead of dry?
Yes, but it will make the dish noticeably sweeter. Dry Marsala is recommended for a balanced flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Make the sauce and chicken separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Marsala is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want a cozy, homemade meal, this recipe delivers every time. I love pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of green beans for a well-rounded meal. Try it once, and I guarantee it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!