There are some dishes that simply never go out of style — Chicken Marsala is one of them. With tender pan-seared chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious sauce infused with Marsala wine, this recipe is a restaurant favorite that’s easy to recreate at home.

Originating from Sicily and embraced in Italian-American kitchens, chicken marsala is proof that simple ingredients can transform into a gourmet-level meal. It’s comforting yet sophisticated, equally perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Best of all, it comes together in under 40 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Marsala Recipe

This dish has stood the test of time because it delivers on all fronts. Here’s why it belongs in your dinner rotation:

• Elegant but Easy: Tastes restaurant-quality, yet simple enough for home cooking.

• Balanced Flavors: The savory chicken and mushrooms pair perfectly with the sweet, nutty richness of Marsala wine.

• Quick Cooking Time: From pan to plate in about 35 minutes.

• Versatile Pairings: Serve with pasta, rice, or potatoes for a complete meal.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Familiar and approachable, yet impressive enough for guests.

What Is Chicken Marsala?

Chicken Marsala is a variation of the traditional Italian Scaloppine al Marsala, where thin slices of meat (often veal) are cooked in a sauce made with Marsala wine.

In the United States, chicken replaced veal in the 20th century, and it quickly became a staple in Italian-American restaurants. The hallmark of the dish is its sauce — Marsala wine reduced with mushrooms, garlic, and shallots, finished with butter. The result is a glossy, flavorful sauce that clings beautifully to tender chicken.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)

• ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for sautéing)

• 2 shallots, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced

• ¾ cup Marsala wine (sweet or dry, see note below)

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for a richer sauce)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

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Step-by-Step: How to Make Chicken Marsala

1. Prepare the Chicken

Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. If needed, pound them gently to about ½-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Dredge each piece lightly in flour, shaking off excess.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in batches, cooking 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C). Transfer to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

3. Sauté the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed. Add mushrooms and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned. Stir in shallots and garlic, cooking until fragrant.

4. Deglaze with Marsala

Pour Marsala wine into the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.

5. Build the Sauce

Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. For a creamier version, stir in heavy cream at this stage. Let the sauce reduce for 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened.

6. Return the Chicken

Nestle chicken cutlets back into the skillet. Spoon sauce and mushrooms over the top, simmering for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.

7. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and, if desired, a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Serve immediately.

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Tips for Perfect Chicken Marsala

• Use Thin Cutlets: Ensures quick cooking and even browning.

• Choose the Right Marsala Wine:

  • Dry Marsala = more savory flavor.

  • Sweet Marsala = richer, slightly caramel-like taste.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches for a golden crust.

• Add Cream for Richness: Traditional recipes may or may not include cream; it’s up to you.

• Taste and Adjust: Add salt, pepper, or lemon juice to balance flavors before serving.

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Serving Ideas

Chicken Marsala pairs beautifully with a wide range of sides:

Pasta & Grains:

• Angel hair pasta tossed with olive oil

• Creamy risotto

• Garlic mashed potatoes

• Rice pilaf

Vegetables:

• Roasted asparagus

• Steamed green beans with lemon

• Sautéed spinach

Salads:

• Arugula with balsamic vinaigrette

• Classic Caesar salad

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Wine Pairing Suggestions

The earthy flavors of mushrooms and Marsala sauce pair well with:

• Chardonnay (lightly oaked)

• Pinot Noir

• Sauvignon Blanc

• Vermentino

Non-alcoholic options include sparkling water with lemon or iced herbal tea.

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Variations to Try

Chicken Marsala is versatile and can be customized in several ways:

• Creamy Chicken Marsala: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream for a velvety sauce.

• Mushroom Lovers’ Version: Use a mix of mushrooms — shiitake, porcini, and cremini — for extra depth.

• Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch or gluten-free flour for dredging.

• Low-Carb: Skip dredging and sear seasoned chicken directly.

• Veal Marsala: For a nod to tradition, use thin veal cutlets instead of chicken.

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Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator:

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer:

Freeze chicken and sauce in separate airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Marsala wine alcoholic?

Yes, it’s a fortified wine. Most of the alcohol cooks off during simmering, leaving behind its deep, nutty flavor.

Can I substitute Marsala wine?

If you can’t find Marsala, try Madeira, sherry, or a dry white wine with a splash of brandy.

Can I make chicken marsala dairy-free?

Yes. Use olive oil instead of butter and omit cream or use a plant-based cream alternative.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs work well and stay extra juicy.

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Why Chicken Marsala Is So Beloved

Chicken marsala has earned its spot as a restaurant and home-cooking classic because it’s balanced, flavorful, and approachable. The sweet, nutty undertones of Marsala wine marry perfectly with savory mushrooms, tender chicken, and a glossy sauce — making it comforting yet elegant.

It’s also endlessly adaptable: dress it up with cream and risotto for a dinner party, or keep it simple with a side of pasta for an easy weeknight meal.

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Bring a Taste of Italy Home Tonight

Chicken marsala is proof that a few humble ingredients — chicken, mushrooms, wine, and butter — can come together to create something truly special. It’s rich without being heavy, flavorful without being complicated, and elegant without requiring hours in the kitchen.

So grab a skillet, pour a glass of wine, and bring the timeless flavors of Chicken Marsala to your table tonight.

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If you try this recipe, don’t forget to share your version! Snap a photo, tag your creations, or leave a comment with your twist. Cooking is always better when it’s shared.

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