Chicken Marsala Casserole Recipe

Homestyle Chicken Marsala Casserole Recipe: Family Favorite

Rustic chicken marsala casserole brings comfort straight to your dinner table with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Mushrooms dance alongside tender chicken pieces in a rich, velvety sauce that whispers Italian countryside traditions.

Weeknight meals demand simplicity without sacrificing taste, and this recipe delivers precisely that.

Home cooks appreciate dishes combining classic techniques with modern convenience.

Wine-infused sauces create depth that turns ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

Layers of savory goodness promise a meal everyone will request again and again.

You’ll find this casserole becomes an instant favorite that feels both elegant and approachable.

Serving Chicken Marsala Casserole to All

  • Cozy Family Dinner Centerpiece: Serve this hearty Chicken Marsala Casserole as the star of your family meal, accompanied by a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread to soak up the rich, creamy sauce.
  • Elegant Dinner Party Presentation: Plate individual portions in shallow white dishes, garnish with extra fresh parsley, and pair with a glass of the same Marsala wine used in the recipe for a sophisticated dining experience.
  • Potluck Crowd-Pleaser: Transport the casserole in a portable dish, keeping it warm with a thermal carrier. Bring extra Parmesan cheese on the side for guests to sprinkle as they wish, making it an instant hit at any gathering.

How to Store Chicken Marsala Casserole

  • Store leftover chicken Marsala casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent odors from spreading.
  • Wrap the casserole securely in freezer-safe plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2-3 months. Label the container with the date and contents for easy tracking.
  • Warm individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350F for 15-20 minutes until thoroughly warm.

FAQs

  • What type of Marsala wine works best for this recipe?

Choose a dry Marsala wine from Italy for the most authentic flavor. Sweet Marsala can make the dish too sugary, so dry varieties are recommended for a balanced taste.

  • Can I substitute chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! Turkey or even pork can work well in this casserole. Just ensure the meat is cooked and shredded before adding to the mixture for consistent texture.

  • How do I prevent the casserole from becoming dry?

Use full-fat cream and chicken broth to keep the dish moist. Don’t overcook the casserole, and make sure to mix ingredients thoroughly before baking to distribute the sauce evenly.

Chicken Marsala Casserole – Italian-Inspired Bliss

  • Savor Quick Comfort: This chicken parmesan grilled cheese delivers maximum flavor with minimal kitchen effort, perfect for busy weeknights or sudden hunger pangs.
  • Transform Classic Favorites: By merging two beloved dishes – chicken parmesan and grilled cheese – this recipe creates a mouthwatering fusion that satisfies multiple cravings in one bite.
  • Master Simple Technique: Requiring just a skillet and basic ingredients, anyone from kitchen newbies to seasoned cooks can successfully craft this delicious sandwich without complicated steps.
  • Customize Your Creation: Easily adapt the recipe by swapping marinara for alternative sauces, experimenting with different cheese types, or adding extra protein like crispy bacon for personalized excitement.

Chicken Marsala Casserole Ingredient Must-Haves

For the Proteins:
  • Chicken: A tender and flavorful protein that serves as the main component of this comforting casserole.
For the Dairy:
  • Heavy Cream, Parmesan Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: These creamy ingredients add richness and a smooth, luxurious texture to the dish.
For the Liquids and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Marsala Wine: A sweet and fortified wine that provides depth and complexity to the sauce.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds additional savory flavor and helps create a moist and delicious casserole.
For the Aromatics:
  • Onions, Garlic, Mushrooms: These vegetables provide a robust and earthy base of flavor for the casserole.
For the Herbs and Seasonings:
  • Fresh Parsley: A bright, fresh herb that adds a pop of color and a light, clean flavor to the finished dish.
For the Base and Binding:
  • Pasta: A hearty ingredient that helps bind the casserole together and provides a satisfying texture.
For the Cooking Fats:
  • Olive Oil, Butter: These fats help sautĂ© the vegetables and create a rich, golden flavor in the dish.

Chicken Marsala Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a cozy 350F (175C), getting it ready for our delicious chicken adventure.

Step 2: Sizzle and Soften

In a large skillet, dance some olive oil and butter over medium heat.

Toss in your chopped onions, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms. Let them mingle and soften until they’re tender and fragrant.

Step 3: Splash in the Marsala Magic

Pour in the Marsala wine, letting it bubble and simmer. Watch as the liquid reduces by half, concentrating all those rich, deep flavors.

Step 4: Create a Creamy Sauce

Introduce heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir and let the mixture bubble gently, thickening into a luxurious sauce that coats everything beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta

Fold in your shredded chicken and pre-cooked pasta. Mix everything together so each bite is packed with flavor and texture.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the entire mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle generously with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, creating a tempting cheesy blanket.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese transforms into a bubbly, golden masterpiece.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Shower the casserole with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately while it’s hot and inviting, ready to comfort and delight.

Cooking Tips for Chicken Marsala Casserole

  • Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content and create a healthier version of the dish.
  • Swap regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free options for dietary restrictions and added nutrition.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick time-saving alternative to shredded chicken, reducing preparation effort.
  • Add red pepper flakes for extra heat and depth of flavor if you enjoy spicier dishes.
  • Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate before baking, which allows flavors to meld and makes meal planning easier.

Fresh Ideas for Chicken Marsala Casserole

  • Mediterranean Herb Chicken Marsala: Replace mozzarella with crumbled feta cheese and add dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
  • Spicy Southwest Chicken Marsala: Mix in diced green chiles, sprinkle chili powder, and top with pepper jack cheese for a zesty southwestern kick.
  • Truffle Mushroom Chicken Marsala: Drizzle truffle oil before baking and use a blend of wild mushrooms like shiitake and porcini for an elegant, earthy enhancement.
  • Gluten-Free Chicken Marsala: Substitute regular pasta with zucchini noodles or gluten-free penne and use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening the sauce.
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Chicken Marsala Casserole Recipe

Chicken Marsala Casserole Recipe


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4.8 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Comforting chicken marsala casserole brings Italian-American flavors to classic comfort food. Rich mushroom sauce and tender chicken create a delightful meal you’ll savor with family and friends.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups chicken breast, shredded
  • 2 cups pasta (penne or rigatoni), cooked
  • 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 cup Marsala wine
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parsley, fresh, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to 350F (175C) to prepare for the casserole assembly.
  2. Create a flavorful base by sautéing diced onions, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms in a blend of olive oil and butter until they become tender and fragrant.
  3. Pour Marsala wine into the skillet, allowing the liquid to simmer and reduce by approximately half, concentrating the rich flavors.
  4. Introduce heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet, gently stirring until the sauce reaches a luxurious, thickened consistency.
  5. Fold shredded chicken and pre-cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, ensuring every ingredient is evenly coated and distributed.
  6. Carefully transfer the entire mixture into a prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
  7. Generously sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheese over the top, creating a golden, melty layer.
  8. Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching for the cheese to become bubbly and slightly golden.
  9. Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finishing touch before serving piping hot.

Notes

  • Optimize mushroom flavor by using a mix of cremini and shiitake for deeper, more complex taste profiles.
  • Enhance protein variety by substituting chicken with rotisserie turkey or shredded plant-based alternatives for vegetarian adaptations.
  • Control sauce consistency by gradually adding cream and broth, whisking continuously to prevent separation and achieve smooth texture.
  • Boost nutritional value by incorporating whole wheat pasta or adding roasted seasonal vegetables like spinach or zucchini during the mixing stage.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 430 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 380 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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