Chicken Marsala Pasta Recipe

Name: Chicken Marsala Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), sliced into thin cutlets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging); Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup Marsala wine (sweet or dry); 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti); 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

By funsmagcom@gmail.com

February 22, 2025

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Chicken Marsala Pasta Recipe

Chicken Marsala Pasta combines two classic comfort foods: the rich, savory flavors of Chicken Marsala and the indulgent texture of pasta. The marriage of the tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and sweet Marsala wine sauce over a bed of pasta makes for a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, date nights, or any occasion when you want a comforting meal with a touch of elegance.

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In this detailed guide, we’ll walk through the essentials of creating a perfect Chicken Marsala Pasta. From choosing the right ingredients to cooking tips and variations, you’ll find everything you need to make this dish at home. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe will ensure you end up with a delicious, mouthwatering meal every time.

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What is Chicken Marsala?

Chicken Marsala is a popular Italian-American dish that consists of chicken breasts or thighs cooked in a savory sauce made with Marsala wine, a fortified wine from Sicily. The sauce typically includes ingredients such as mushrooms, onions, and sometimes garlic, with a touch of butter and herbs to balance the flavors. The dish is often served over a starch like mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.

In Chicken Marsala Pasta, this classic dish is transformed by adding pasta to the mix. The sauce coats the pasta, and the tender chicken and earthy mushrooms provide a rich, flavorful combination that’s hearty and satisfying.

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What You’ll Need for Chicken Marsala Pasta

Ingredients for Chicken Marsala:

Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Skinless, boneless chicken breasts are commonly used in Chicken Marsala. However, chicken thighs provide a juicier, richer flavor. Choose what you prefer based on your texture preference.
Marsala Wine: This is the star of the sauce. Marsala is a fortified wine with a distinctive flavor that brings depth and sweetness to the dish. You can find it in most grocery stores, usually in the wine or liquor section.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms, button mushrooms, or a mix of both are typically used. Mushrooms absorb the Marsala wine sauce beautifully and add earthiness to the dish.
Butter and Olive Oil: Butter adds richness to the sauce, while olive oil is used to cook the chicken.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves, minced or crushed, give the sauce an aromatic punch.
Chicken Broth: Adds additional savory flavor to the sauce and helps balance the wine’s sweetness.
Flour: Used to dredge the chicken before cooking. This helps create a light crust on the chicken and thickens the sauce.
Fresh Herbs: Typically, fresh thyme or parsley is added at the end to give the dish a fresh, aromatic finish.

Ingredients for the Pasta:

Pasta: You can use a variety of pasta shapes for this dish. Fettuccine, spaghetti, or pappardelle are popular choices for their ability to hold the sauce. However, penne, rigatoni, or farfalle can also work well.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty, salty element that pairs beautifully with the Marsala sauce.

Optional Ingredients for Creamy Twist:

Heavy Cream: If you like a creamy variation of Chicken Marsala Pasta, adding a bit of heavy cream to the sauce can create a rich, smooth texture.
Shallots: Some variations use shallots in place of onions for a milder, slightly sweeter flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Chicken Marsala Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by preparing your chicken. If you are using chicken breasts, it’s helpful to slice them horizontally into thinner cutlets. This ensures that they cook evenly and absorb more of the Marsala wine sauce. If using thighs, you can leave them whole or slice them into strips for quicker cooking.

Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, then dredge it lightly in flour. This helps to create a golden-brown crust when searing.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While preparing the chicken, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is al dente, drain and set it aside. Be sure to reserve a little pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 4: Cook the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become golden brown and tender. If the skillet becomes too dry, add a bit more butter or olive oil.

Step 5: Create the Marsala Sauce

Once the mushrooms are cooked, add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the Marsala wine and scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze any browned bits left from the chicken. Allow the wine to cook down and reduce by half, which should take about 5 minutes.

Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for another 5 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly. If you’re making a creamy version, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream and stir to combine.

Step 6: Combine the Chicken with the Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes to soak up all the flavors.

Step 7: Toss the Pasta

Once the chicken is coated in the sauce, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce until everything is well-coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

Step 8: Serve

Serve the Chicken Marsala Pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for the Best Chicken Marsala Pasta

Don’t Overcrowd the Chicken: When searing the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This allows each piece of chicken to brown evenly. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
Use Good Quality Marsala Wine: The flavor of Marsala wine is central to the sauce. Choose a medium or dry Marsala wine for a balanced flavor. Avoid using cooking wine, as it tends to be overly salty and lacks depth.
Thicken the Sauce to Taste: If the sauce is too thin, you can let it simmer for a few extra minutes. Alternatively, a small amount of cornstarch or flour mixed with water can be added to thicken it more quickly.
Make it Ahead: If you’re hosting a dinner or preparing for a busy week, you can make the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Reheat the dish and add the pasta just before serving.
Adjust the Flavor: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings. If it needs a little more sweetness, add a touch of sugar. If it’s too sweet, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to balance it out.

How to Make Chicken Marsala Pasta with a Creamy Twist

For a rich, creamy version of Chicken Marsala Pasta, simply add heavy cream to the sauce. After reducing the Marsala wine and chicken broth, pour in 1/2 to 1 cup of heavy cream and stir until combined. This will give the sauce a velvety texture and a slightly sweeter flavor. You can also add parmesan cheese directly into the sauce for extra richness.

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk, although the sauce will be less rich.

Serving Suggestions

With Garlic Bread: Serve your Chicken Marsala Pasta with a side of buttery, garlic-infused bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
A Fresh Salad: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or even brussels sprouts can add a nice crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.

Variations of the Chicken Marsala Pasta Recipe

Add Spinach: For a pop of color and extra nutrients, toss in some fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
Mushroom-Free Marsala: If you don’t like mushrooms, skip them or substitute with another vegetable, such as zucchini or bell peppers.
Add Prosciutto: Add some crispy prosciutto for a salty, crispy texture that complements the creamy sauce.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the chicken.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Marsala Pasta

Storage: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, chicken thighs add more flavor and remain juicy. Either cut them into strips or use whole thighs for a more rustic dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make the sauce and chicken ahead of time. Just add the pasta and reheat everything before serving.
Can I freeze leftovers? While the pasta can be frozen, the sauce might change in texture when thawed. It’s best to freeze only the chicken and sauce, and cook fresh pasta when reheating.

Conclusion

Chicken Marsala Pasta is a luxurious yet easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, entertaining guests, or just treating yourself to something special. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich Marsala wine sauce over your favorite pasta creates a meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying.

With this step-by-step guide, tips, and variations, you now have all the tools you need to make Chicken Marsala Pasta like a pro!

Yield: 4