Chicken Marsala Pasta Recipe

If you love the rich, creamy flavors of classic Chicken Marsala but crave the comfort of pasta, this Chicken Marsala Pasta recipe is the perfect fusion of both worlds. Tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious Marsala wine sauce come together with perfectly cooked pasta for a meal that feels restaurant-worthy yet simple enough for a weeknight.

I first made this dish after a particularly successful dinner out featuring Chicken Marsala. I wanted to recreate that velvety sauce at home, but I also needed a pasta fix. The result? This easy, one-pan wonder that’s become a regular on our dinner table. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Marsala Pasta

This dish has everything you could want in a comforting, flavorful meal. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The Marsala wine, combined with cream and chicken broth, creates a velvety sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.
• Simple Yet Elegant: While it tastes like a dish you’d find at an Italian trattoria, it’s easy to make at home with just a few steps.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer more mushrooms, extra cheese, or a gluten-free pasta option, this recipe adapts beautifully to your needs.
• One-Pot Convenience: With just one pot (or skillet) and minimal cleanup, this recipe is perfect for busy cooks.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe relies on a few key ingredients to deliver big flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Slice them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Pasta: Penne, fettuccine, or any sturdy pasta shape that can hold the creamy sauce works perfectly. Cook it al dente for the best texture.
• Marsala Wine: The star of the sauce, this fortified wine adds a unique, nutty sweetness that sets this dish apart. Dry Marsala is preferred for cooking.
• Mushrooms: Cremini or baby bella mushrooms are ideal for their earthy flavor and firm texture. Slice them thinly for even cooking.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious, creamy consistency for the sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Balances the richness of the cream and helps create the sauce base.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
• Garlic and Shallots: Essential for building depth and aromatic flavor in the dish.
• Butter and Olive Oil: A combination of both ensures a silky sauce and golden-browned chicken.

How to Make Chicken Marsala Pasta

This recipe comes together in a few easy steps. Follow along to create this decadent dish:

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
2. Sear the Chicken
   Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a mix of butter and olive oil, then add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms and Shallots
   In the same skillet, add another pat of butter and toss in the sliced mushrooms and shallots. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and the shallots are softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze with Marsala Wine
   Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Make the Sauce
   Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Toss everything to coat in the sauce.
6. Finish with Parmesan
   Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this dish stores and reheats beautifully.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly customizable. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

1. Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and double the mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly dish. Add spinach for extra greens.
2. Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure your chicken broth and Marsala wine are gluten-free.
3. Add Veggies: Toss in peas, asparagus, or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
4. Cheesy Upgrade: For an extra cheesy dish, add shredded mozzarella or Gruyère to the sauce.
5. No Marsala Wine? Substitute with a mix of dry sherry and a splash of balsamic vinegar, or even chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

With its creamy Marsala wine sauce and tender chicken, Chicken Marsala Pasta is a dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving something indulgent, this recipe will deliver every time. Enjoy!

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