Easy Chicken Marsala Recipe

If you have ever wished for a dish that feels fancy but comes together quickly, this Easy Chicken Marsala is your new best friend in the kitchen. Juicy chicken breasts are perfectly seared to create a golden crust, then bathed in a luscious mushroom and balsamic-infused sauce that’s sweet, tangy, and deeply satisfying. Every element of this recipe comes together effortlessly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress without hours of prep. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but vital, each adding a layer of flavor, richness, and texture to your chicken marsala. Their simplicity makes this dish approachable, while their unique qualities combine to create something truly delicious.

• 1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose smaller breasts or slice larger ones to ensure even cooking and quick sautéing.
• Kosher salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken and mushrooms.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a healthy fat for browning the chicken and adds a subtle richness to the dish.
• 2 cups sliced mushrooms: The star that soaks up the sauce and adds an earthy depth to the meal.
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced: Adds aromatic warmth and a slight bite that perfectly complements the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce to that perfect velvety consistency.
• 3 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar: Brings a tangy sweetness and complexity that makes this dish stand out.
• 1 tablespoon honey (heaping, or 2 tablespoons): Balances the balsamic vinegar with gentle natural sweetness.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Builds the sauce body and adds savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish and a pop of color to the dish.

How to Make Easy Chicken Marsala

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with kosher salt and pepper on both sides — this simple step brings out the chicken’s natural flavor. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large pan, then add the chicken. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until the breasts develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust and are cooked through. This searing step locks in juices, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and loosely cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms

Using the same pan, add your sliced mushrooms and cook them until they soften and release their lovely earthy aroma, about 3-4 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper, which enhances their natural umami. Then add the minced garlic and sprinkle the cornstarch over everything. Stir continuously for about a minute—this coats the mushrooms and garlic in a thin layer of cornstarch, which is crucial for thickening your sauce in the next steps.

Step 3: Prepare the Balsamic-Honey Mixture

In a small jug or bowl, whisk together the aged balsamic vinegar and honey until the honey dissolves completely. This creates a sweet and tangy base that gives your sauce a vibrant lift. Reduce your pan’s heat to medium-low to gently cook this mixture without burning the sugars.

Step 4: Thicken and Simmer the Sauce

Pour the balsamic-honey mixture into the pan with mushrooms, stirring constantly. Cook for about 2 minutes until the mixture mostly evaporates and thickens. Next, add the chicken broth and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Continue stirring for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce has thickened just right — luscious and velvety but not too heavy.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the chicken breasts to the pan and spoon generous amounts of the mushroom sauce over them. Let the chicken soak in the flavors for a minute or two. Finally, sprinkle with finely chopped parsley for a fresh burst of color and flavor before serving. This step not only makes the dish look stunning but also adds a subtle herbaceous note that brightens each bite.

How to Serve Easy Chicken Marsala

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley is all you need to finish this dish beautifully. The greenery adds a fresh contrast to the deep caramel tones of the sauce and makes the meal feel special without any fuss. If you want to get fancy, a few slivers of toasted almonds or a light dusting of parmesan can also amplify the experience.

Side Dishes

Easy Chicken Marsala pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery pasta, or even a simple risotto. These sides soak up the rich mushroom sauce perfectly. For a healthier twist, steamed asparagus or roasted green beans provide a crisp and refreshing counterbalance to the savory main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Plate the chicken over a bed of your favorite starch to catch all the sauce, then spoon extra mushrooms and sauce artistically on top. Alternatively, serve it family-style in the pan for a rustic, cozy feel that invites everyone to dig in. Another fun presentation is slicing the chicken breast after cooking and fanning the slices out attractively with mushrooms piled in the center.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (and believe me, many do), simply transfer the chicken and sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making for an easy next-day meal that tastes just as good.

Freezing

This dish freezes nicely. Allow it to cool completely, then place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its delicious flavors. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce thickened too much. Stir occasionally to warm evenly and preserve the tender texture of the chicken and mushrooms.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mushrooms for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cremini or button mushrooms are classic and easy to find, shiitake or portobello mushrooms can add a deeper, meatier flavor. Just slice them similarly and cook until tender.

Do I need to pound the chicken breasts?

Not necessarily. If your chicken breasts are on the thicker side, slicing them lengthwise into thinner cutlets helps them cook evenly and faster without drying out.

Is there a substitute for cornstarch?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour as a thickener, but use about double the amount since flour is less potent than cornstarch. Whisk it in with the garlic and mushrooms the same way.

Can this dish be made gluten free?

Definitely. Make sure your chicken broth and balsamic vinegar are gluten free (most are, but it’s always good to check labels). Cornstarch is naturally gluten free, so this recipe fits well with a gluten-free diet.

What wine pairs well with Easy Chicken Marsala?

This dish pairs beautifully with a medium-bodied white like Pinot Grigio or even a light red like Pinot Noir. If you want to keep things non-alcoholic, sparkling water with a twist of lemon clears the palate nicely.

Final Thoughts

Cooking this Easy Chicken Marsala is like giving yourself a gift of simple luxury. Every step offers a chance to connect with a dish that’s comforting yet elegant, easy but impressive. I promise once you bring this recipe to your table, it will feel like an indulgence you can enjoy any night of the week. So don your apron, grab those ingredients, and get ready to make one of the most deliciously satisfying meals you’ll crave again and again!

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