If you’re craving a comforting, elegant pasta dish, this Chicken Marsala Pasta in Creamy Sauce is a perfect choice. Combining tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich Marsala wine-infused cream sauce, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this dish balances hearty pasta, succulent chicken, and a luxurious sauce for a meal that’s both satisfying and sophisticated.
Ingredients
Serves 4
Chicken and Pasta:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces (225g) pasta of choice (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 ounces (225g) mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (120ml) Marsala wine
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken slices with salt and pepper.
- Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
- In the same skillet, melt butter.
- Add sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5–6 minutes until golden and tender.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Marsala Cream Sauce
- Pour in the Marsala wine and simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta, gently tossing to combine. Use reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy your restaurant-style Chicken Marsala Pasta in Creamy Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Garnish with a drizzle of truffle oil for an elegant twist.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or family gatherings.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/4 recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 |
| Protein | 35 grams |
| Total Fat | 25 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 12 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 45 grams |
| Sugars | 5 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 450 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Chicken provides high-quality protein.
- Mushrooms add fiber, antioxidants, and umami flavor.
- Cream and Parmesan contribute richness but also saturated fat, so moderation is key.
- Use whole-grain pasta for additional fiber and nutrients.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Marsala Pasta
- Pound chicken to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Do not overcook mushrooms; they should be tender but not mushy.
- Reduce Marsala wine slightly before adding cream to intensify flavor.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture and taste.
Variations to Try
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
- Use penne or rigatoni for a heartier bite that holds the sauce well.
- Incorporate a splash of white wine instead of Marsala for a different flavor profile.
This Chicken Marsala Pasta in Creamy Sauce recipe is a perfect balance of rich flavors, tender chicken, and satisfying pasta. It brings restaurant-quality indulgence to your dinner table with minimal effort. Ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home cooking repertoire.