Chicken Marsala Pasta Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the rich, savory aroma of Chicken Marsala Pasta filling your kitchen. This dish combines the best of two worlds: the earthy, sweet flavors of classic Chicken Marsala and the comforting appeal of creamy pasta. It's a dinner that feels gourmet yet is simple enough to whip up on a weeknight.

I discovered this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted something hearty but a little fancy. Now, it’s my go-to for impressing dinner guests or treating my family to a flavorful, satisfying meal. Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot on your dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Marsala Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this creamy, savory pasta dish. Chicken Marsala Pasta brings together tender chicken, mushrooms, and a velvety Marsala wine sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta.

• Quick and Easy: While it tastes like it came from a fancy Italian restaurant, this dish is ready in just 30–40 minutes. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you need dinner fast but don’t want to sacrifice flavor.
• Rich and Comforting: The creamy Marsala sauce coats every piece of pasta and chicken, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this dish! The mild sweetness of the Marsala pairs beautifully with the savory ingredients, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Great for Entertaining: Looking for a dish to impress your guests? Chicken Marsala Pasta is elegant yet approachable – perfect for dinner parties.

Ready to get cooking? Let’s take a closer look at what makes this recipe shine.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to the incredible flavor of Chicken Marsala Pasta lies in its carefully chosen ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the key players and why they’re essential to the dish.

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star protein here. They’re lean, easy to cook, and soak up all the delicious Marsala flavors. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer taste.
• Marsala Wine: This fortified wine gives the dish its signature sweet and nutty flavor. Opt for dry Marsala for a more savory sauce, but sweet Marsala works too if you prefer a touch of sweetness.
• Cremini Mushrooms: These mushrooms add an earthy depth that complements the wine beautifully. Sliced white button mushrooms can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
• Heavy Cream: The cream balances the bold flavors of the wine and mushrooms, creating a silky sauce that clings to the pasta. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Pasta: Fettuccine or penne works best for this dish, as their textures pair well with the creamy sauce. Use gluten-free pasta if needed to suit dietary preferences.

Don’t forget to grab some parmesan cheese for garnish and a large skillet for cooking everything in one pan – less cleanup is always a win!

How to Make Chicken Marsala Pasta

This recipe is surprisingly simple, with just a few steps standing between you and a restaurant-quality meal.

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed.
2. Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil, and cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter and toss in the mushrooms. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a golden crust, then stir in minced garlic for a burst of flavor.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly, then stir in the heavy cream. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until evenly coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Garnish with grated parmesan and fresh parsley before serving.

This whole process takes about 35 minutes, and the result is nothing short of spectacular.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), Chicken Marsala Pasta stores beautifully for later enjoyment.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing, you can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to bring the sauce back to life.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Chicken Marsala Pasta is how versatile it is. Here are a few ways to customize the recipe to suit your taste:

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add extra mushrooms, or toss in some sautéed zucchini or spinach for a veggie-packed version.
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and check that your Marsala wine is gluten-free.
• Lighter Sauce: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk for a lighter, dairy-free option.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in shredded mozzarella or provolone for an extra creamy, cheesy finish.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick of heat.

Experimenting with different ingredients ensures this dish never gets old.

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to bring this delicious Chicken Marsala Pasta to life in your kitchen. Your family, friends, and even your taste buds will thank you!

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