If you’ve ever dined at an Italian restaurant and fallen in love with the rich, velvety sauce of Chicken Marsala, you’ll be delighted to know that this dish is easy to make at home. Featuring tender chicken cutlets simmered in a savory Marsala wine sauce with earthy mushrooms, this classic recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with simple ingredients.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, Chicken Marsala strikes a beautiful balance between elegant and comforting — all in under 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally (to make 4 cutlets)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Sauce:
- 8 ounces (225g) cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup Marsala wine (use dry for savory flavor)
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1/3 cup heavy cream (optional for a richer sauce)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Place the chicken cutlets between sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound to an even ½-inch thickness.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each cutlet lightly in flour, shaking off excess.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken cutlets and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
- In the same skillet, add mushrooms and cook until they release their juices and begin to brown, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and thyme; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Marsala Sauce
- Pour in the Marsala wine and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add chicken broth and cream (if using); stir and let the sauce thicken for 5–7 minutes.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer in the sauce for another 3–5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with buttered fettuccine, mashed potatoes, or creamy risotto to soak up the sauce.
- For a lighter option, pair with steamed vegetables or cauliflower mash.
- Complement with a glass of dry white wine or light red such as Pinot Noir.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cutlet with sauce) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 |
| Protein | 36 grams |
| Total Fat | 20 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 8 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 16 grams |
| Sugars | 3 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 480 milligrams |
| Cholesterol | 105 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- High in protein, supporting muscle growth and satiety.
- Marsala wine and mushrooms add antioxidants and earthy depth without excess calories.
- Optional cream can be omitted or replaced with milk for a lighter dish.
- Use olive oil instead of butter for a heart-healthier alternative.
Tips for Success
- Use dry Marsala wine for authentic savory flavor (avoid sweet varieties).
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the chicken — cook in batches if necessary.
- Deglaze the pan properly with Marsala to capture all the flavor.
- Add a touch of lemon juice before serving to brighten the sauce.
Variations to Try
- Creamy Mushroom Marsala: Add more cream and a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra richness.
- Garlic-Herb Marsala: Add a handful of spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added depth.
- Dairy-Free Version: Substitute cream with coconut milk or almond milk.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the flour dredge and lightly season with almond flour instead.
This Classic Chicken Marsala Recipe brings the elegance of fine Italian dining to your home kitchen. Tender chicken cutlets and a silky, wine-infused mushroom sauce create a dish that’s rich, comforting, and irresistibly flavorful.
Whether for a family dinner or a romantic meal, this timeless recipe proves that gourmet cooking can be simple and achievable — with every bite tasting like a trip to Italy.