Creamy Chicken Marsala Recipe
Creamy Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian American dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious mushroom and Marsala wine sauce. Its rich, savoury flavour balanced with a hint of sweetness from the wine makes it a timeless comfort meal that never goes out of style. This dish is often seen on restaurant menus, but the best part is that you can easily make it at home with simple ingredients and just a little effort.
What makes this recipe so special is its versatility. It is elegant enough to serve at dinner parties yet simple enough for a cozy weeknight meal. The creamy Marsala sauce pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or even rice, making it a flexible dish that fits any occasion. Once you try it, this Creamy Chicken Marsala will become a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Why You Need This Recipe
This Creamy Chicken Marsala recipe is the perfect balance of elegance and comfort. The tender chicken coated in a silky mushroom Marsala wine sauce delivers flavours that feel luxurious without being overly complicated. It is a dish that can impress guests at a dinner party but is still simple enough for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
You will also love how versatile this recipe is. It pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, and the sauce is so rich and flavourful that you will want to savour every drop. Unlike takeout or pre made meals, making it at home gives you control over the quality of ingredients and ensures a fresher, healthier, and more delicious result. Once you experience the depth of flavour in this homemade version, it will quickly become a regular in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
Cooking this Creamy Chicken Marsala at home is easier than you think, and these simple ingredients come together to create a rich, comforting dish that tastes restaurant worthy.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless) | 4 pieces (about 1.5 lbs) | 660 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | 240 |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons | 300 |
| Mushrooms (sliced) | 8 oz | 60 |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | 15 |
| Marsala wine | 1 cup | 150 |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | 800 |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup | 40 |
| All purpose flour (for dredging) | ½ cup | 220 |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | 0 |
| Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) | 2 tablespoons | 5 |
Total Calories (per serving, approx. for 4 servings): ~620
How to Prepare
To start, season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then lightly dredge them in flour to create a delicate coating. Heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium high heat, then cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter along with the sliced mushrooms and saute until they become golden and tender. Stir in the garlic, allowing it to release its aroma, then deglaze the pan with Marsala wine, scraping up any flavourful bits stuck to the bottom. Pour in the chicken broth and let the mixture simmer until slightly reduced. Finally, stir in the heavy cream, bringing the sauce to a silky, rich consistency. Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce generously over each piece, and let it simmer for a few minutes until the flavors meld together beautifully. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Pro Tips
For the best results, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking. This ensures they cook evenly and stay tender without drying out. Using fresh mushrooms instead of canned will also make a big difference, as they add a deeper, earthy flavor that complements the Marsala wine perfectly.
When choosing your wine, go for a quality dry Marsala rather than a sweet version, as it balances the creaminess of the sauce and prevents it from being overly rich. Allow the sauce to simmer gently after adding the cream so it thickens naturally without breaking. Finally, always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure every bite is perfectly balanced.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Creamy Chicken Marsala is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic option, serve it over pasta like fettuccine or linguine to soak up the rich sauce. Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta also make excellent choices, as they provide a comforting base that complements the flavors of the chicken and mushrooms. If you prefer something lighter, steamed rice or roasted vegetables can balance the richness of the dish.
For toppings, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also finish with a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess and depth. To elevate the dish further, serve it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread on the side, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Marsala is the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary meal into something special. With its tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and luxurious wine infused cream sauce, it delivers comfort and elegance in every bite. Best of all, it is simple enough to prepare on a weeknight yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner party.
Once you try this homemade version, you will see why it has become a timeless favourite for so many. Whether you pair it with pasta, potatoes, or a fresh salad, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy both family and guests. Add it to your recipe collection, and it just might become your go to choice whenever you want a meal that feels indulgent yet approachable.
