If you’re looking for a delicious homemade chicken marsala recipe, look no further! This mouthwatering dish combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and flavorful marsala wine sauce. The chicken is first seared to perfection, then simmered with mushrooms, garlic, and herbs, creating a dish that is both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a restaurant-quality meal at home, this chicken marsala recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will delight your taste buds!
Ingredients
To make a delicious homemade chicken Marsala, you will need the following ingredients:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Start by choosing boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best texture and tenderness in your dish. This allows for easy cooking and eating.
All-purpose flour
You will need all-purpose flour to create a light coating on the chicken breasts. This will help to lock in the moisture and add a nice crispy texture to the outer layer.
Salt
Salt is an essential ingredient that helps enhance the flavors of all the other ingredients. Be sure to season the chicken breasts generously to ensure they are flavorful throughout.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds a touch of spiciness and depth to your chicken Marsala. Just a pinch of freshly ground black pepper can make a world of difference in your dish.
Dried oregano
Dried oregano is a versatile herb that pairs well with chicken and adds a subtle earthy flavor. It complements the other ingredients in the dish and helps to create a well-rounded taste.
Butter
Butter adds richness and enhances the flavor of the sauce. It helps to create a velvety texture to coat the chicken Marsala. Make sure to use unsalted butter to have more control over the overall saltiness of the dish.
Olive oil
Olive oil is the perfect oil for sautéing the chicken breasts. Its light flavor won’t overpower the other ingredients and it provides a healthy alternative to other cooking oils.
Garlic cloves
Garlic cloves are a must in any savory dish. Their pungent and aromatic flavor elevates the taste of the chicken Marsala. Be sure to mince the garlic finely for even distribution of flavor.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms are an essential ingredient in chicken Marsala. They add a meatiness and earthy flavor to the dish. Choose your favorite kind of mushrooms, such as cremini, button, or portobello, and slice them thinly.
Marsala wine
Marsala wine is the star ingredient in chicken Marsala. It provides a rich and distinctive flavor to the dish. The wine brings a hint of sweetness and a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the chicken and mushrooms.
Chicken broth
Chicken broth is the base for the sauce in chicken Marsala. It adds flavor and helps to keep the chicken breasts moist. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to have more control over the saltiness of the dish.
Heavy cream
Heavy cream adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. It complements the Marsala wine and helps to create a velvety texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute it with milk or a non-dairy alternative.
Preparation
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to prepare your homemade chicken Marsala. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious and satisfying dish:
Pound the chicken breasts
Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This helps the chicken to cook evenly and tenderizes the meat. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or a rolling pin to gently pound them until they are about ¼ inch thick.
Season the chicken
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Make sure to season both sides of the chicken breasts to infuse them with flavor.
Dredge the chicken in flour mixture
In a shallow dish or plate, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Dredge the seasoned chicken breasts in the flour mixture, making sure to coat them evenly on both sides. Shake off any excess flour.
Saute the chicken
Heat a combination of butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Prepare the sauce
Using the same skillet, add some more butter and olive oil if needed. Add the minced garlic cloves and sauté them for a minute or until fragrant. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook them until they are tender and golden brown.
Cook the mushrooms
Once the mushrooms are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside with the chicken breasts.
Deglaze the pan
Pour the Marsala wine into the skillet and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This step is essential as it helps to release the flavors and incorporate them into the sauce.
Add the chicken back to the pan
Return the chicken breasts and cooked mushrooms to the skillet with the Marsala wine. Allow them to simmer in the sauce for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Simmer the chicken in the sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken breasts simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and tender. This allows the chicken to absorb all the wonderful flavors from the sauce.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to customize your homemade chicken Marsala recipe and make it truly special:
Tenderizing the chicken
If you want your chicken breasts to be extra tender, you can marinate them in a mixture of buttermilk, salt, and pepper for a few hours before cooking. This helps to break down the proteins, resulting in a juicier and more tender chicken.
Adding additional herbs and spices
Feel free to experiment and add additional herbs and spices to your chicken Marsala. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a delightful aroma, and a pinch of red pepper flakes can give your dish a gentle kick of heat.
Substituting ingredients
If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, don’t worry! Chicken Marsala is a forgiving dish, and you can easily substitute certain ingredients. For example, if you don’t have Marsala wine, you can use a dry white wine or even sherry as a replacement. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may be slightly different.
Making it dairy-free
If you have dietary restrictions or prefer a dairy-free version, you can omit the heavy cream and use a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. Just be aware that the sauce will have a different texture and flavor.
Thickening the sauce
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and add it to the simmering sauce. Stir well and let it cook for a few more minutes until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance the overall dining experience, consider the following serving suggestions for your homemade chicken Marsala:
Choosing side dishes
Chicken Marsala pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a side of creamy mashed potatoes. The vibrant colors and flavors will complement the chicken Marsala perfectly.
Garnishing the dish
Before serving, you can garnish the chicken Marsala with some chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a touch of freshness and a burst of flavor to the dish.
Pairing with wine
To complete the meal, pair your chicken Marsala with a glass of Marsala wine or a dry white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. The subtle notes in the wine will harmonize with the flavors of the dish.
Storage and Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers, it’s important to know how to store and reheat your chicken Marsala properly:
Refrigeration
Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Freezing
To freeze chicken Marsala, place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
When reheating chicken Marsala, it is best to do it slowly over low heat to prevent it from drying out. You can use a skillet or heat it in the microwave, adding a bit of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about chicken Marsala:
What is chicken Marsala?
Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that features tender chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful sauce made from Marsala wine, mushrooms, and herbs. It is known for its rich and comforting flavors.
Is it necessary to use Marsala wine?
While Marsala wine is traditional and provides the distinct flavor of the dish, you can use substitutes if needed. Dry white wine, sherry, or even a non-alcoholic wine can be used to achieve a similar taste profile.
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are commonly used, you can definitely use bone-in chicken for added flavor and juiciness. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
Can I make it without cream?
Yes, you can make a lighter version of chicken Marsala without heavy cream. Simply omit the cream or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut milk or almond milk.
Conclusion
Homemade chicken Marsala is a comforting and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family and guests. By following this comprehensive recipe and the included tips and variations, you will be able to create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to enjoy a delicious and satisfying dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Bon appétit!