The Perfect Chicken Marsala Pasta Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Creamy chicken Marsala pasta brings together classic Italian flavors in a surprisingly simple weeknight meal.

Delicate mushrooms and tender chicken create a luxurious sauce that coats every strand of pasta perfectly.

Wine adds depth and complexity to this comforting dish.

Professional chefs might seem intimidated by Marsala, but you can master this recipe with ease.

Each bite promises a rich, harmonious blend of savory ingredients.

Mediterranean herbs sprinkled on top add a fresh, aromatic touch that makes this meal feel special.

Grab a fork and get ready to savor every delicious moment of this incredible pasta experience.

Tips for Cooking Chicken Marsala Pasta Well

• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to achieve a golden-brown crust that locks in flavor and creates a delicious exterior.
• Simmer sauce slowly to let it reduce and thicken naturally, creating a rich and creamy texture without becoming too runny.
• Use a mix of mushrooms like cremini and shiitake to add depth and complexity to the dish's overall flavor profile.
• Choose a dry Marsala wine that complements the chicken without overpowering the other ingredients, enhancing the sauce's richness.
• Toss pasta with a little olive oil after draining to keep the noodles separate and ensure even sauce distribution.

Chicken Marsala Pasta Variations to Explore

• Vegetarian Marsala: Replace chicken with portobello mushrooms or plant-based chicken substitute, keeping the same cooking method and sauce preparation.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure Marsala wine is gluten-free. Verify all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Swap pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Reduce cream quantity and use lighter cheese for fewer calories.
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for similar flavor profile.

What Goes Well With Marsala Pasta Dish

• Rustic Family Dinner Centerpiece: Serve the pasta in large, warm ceramic bowls with extra Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top for a comforting family-style presentation.
• Wine Pairing Perfection: Complement the rich Marsala sauce with a glass of dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay to enhance the meal's flavors.
• Side Dish Symphony: Pair with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus spears to balance the creamy pasta's richness and add fresh green elements.
• Bread Basket Bonus: Offer warm, crusty Italian bread or garlic breadsticks on the side to soak up the delicious Marsala sauce and complete the dining experience.

How to Store Chicken Marsala Pasta Properly

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Properly stored, chicken Marsala pasta can last 2-3 months in the freezer.
• Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture and prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.
• Place portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.

FAQs

• What type of wine is best for Chicken Marsala Pasta?

Marsala wine is traditionally used, which is a fortified wine from Sicily, Italy. It provides a rich, slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements the chicken and mushroom sauce.

• Can I substitute the Marsala wine?

Yes, you can use dry sherry or Madeira as alternatives. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, use chicken broth with a splash of balsamic vinegar to add depth of flavor.

• Is this dish considered authentic Italian cuisine?

While inspired by traditional Chicken Marsala, this pasta version is a modern American adaptation that combines classic Italian flavors with pasta for a more substantial meal.

Why Chicken Marsala Pasta Is So Flavorful

• Savor Quick Comfort: Whip up this delightful chicken Marsala pasta in under half an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a restaurant-quality meal at home.
• Master One-Skillet Magic: Minimize dishes and maximize flavor by preparing everything in a single skillet, creating a seamless cooking experience that saves time and cleanup effort.
• Customize Your Culinary Creation: Easily adapt the recipe by swapping mushrooms, adjusting cream levels, or adding extra herbs to suit personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Crowd-Pleasing Elegance: Impress family and guests with a sophisticated dish that looks and tastes gourmet but requires minimal cooking skills and basic ingredients.

Ingredients Needed for Chicken Marsala Pasta

• Pasta: A hearty foundation for the chicken and sauce.

• Chicken Breast Slices: Tender meat that adds substantial protein to the dish.

• Marsala Wine, Chicken Broth, Heavy Cream: Rich liquid base that creates a luxurious sauce.

• Garlic, Fresh Parsley: Adds depth and freshness to the overall flavor profile.

• Mushrooms: Earthy vegetables that provide a meaty texture and rich flavor.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken and other ingredients.

• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty complexity and helps thicken the sauce.

• Olive Oil, Butter: Provide richness and help with cooking and flavor development.

How to Make Chicken Marsala Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Boil Pasta to Perfection

Cook your pasta according to the package directions.

Once it’s tender and delicious, drain the water and set the pasta aside, ready for its flavor adventure.

Step 2: Sizzle and Brown Chicken

Sprinkle salt and pepper over chicken slices.

Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken until it develops a beautiful golden-brown exterior and is completely cooked through.

Transfer the chicken to a plate, keeping it warm and ready for later.

Step 3: Saute Mushroom Magic

In the same skillet, melt butter and introduce mushrooms.

Cook them until they turn a gorgeous golden brown.

Add minced garlic and let it dance around, releasing its aromatic charm until fragrant.

Step 4: Create Luxurious Marsala Sauce

Pour Marsala wine into the skillet and let it simmer for a quick two minutes.

Next, add chicken broth and heavy cream.

Stir the mixture gently, watching it transform into a rich, velvety sauce that thickens with each gentle swirl.

Step 5: Combine and Coat

Bring the cooked chicken and pasta back to the skillet.

Toss everything together, ensuring each piece gets a luxurious coating of the creamy Marsala sauce.

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, letting it melt and create an extra layer of deliciousness.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Scatter fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Serve the pasta immediately while it’s warm and inviting, ready to be devoured.

Chicken Marsala Pasta Recipe

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy chicken marsala pasta brings Italian-American comfort to your dinner table. Succulent chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich marsala wine sauce combine for a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 large chicken breasts, thinly sliced

Sauce and Liquid Ingredients:

• 1 cup Marsala wine
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Pasta and Additional Ingredients:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (fettuccine or penne)
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare pasta following package directions, ensuring al dente texture. Drain and reserve.
2. Generously season chicken with salt and black pepper. Sear in hot olive oil until golden and completely cooked through, approximately 5-6 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a separate plate.
3. Using the same skillet, melt butter and sauté mushrooms until they develop a rich, caramelized color. Introduce minced garlic and cook until aromatic, about 30-45 seconds.
4. Deglaze the pan with Marsala wine, allowing it to reduce and concentrate flavors for 2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously until sauce reaches a smooth, velvety consistency.
5. Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Add reserved pasta and gently toss, ensuring each strand is lavishly coated with the creamy Marsala sauce.
6. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the dish, creating a luxurious finish. Mix thoroughly to incorporate.
7. Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant touch. Serve immediately while hot, presenting a harmonious blend of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and rich sauce.

Notes

• Choose high-quality Marsala wine for richer, more authentic flavor complexity.
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure perfect golden-brown searing and crispy exterior.
• Use fresh mushrooms like cremini or shiitake for deeper, more robust earthy undertones.
• Gluten-free adaptation works great by substituting regular pasta with gluten-free alternatives like chickpea or rice pasta without compromising taste.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 590 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 420 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 13 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 47 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg