Quick Easy Chicken Marsala Recipe – Elegant Flavor in Minutes

Introduction

Quick Easy Chicken Marsala Recipe is proof that a restaurant-quality meal can be made at home without complicated steps or hours in the kitchen. This classic Italian-American dish features tender chicken simmered in a rich, savory Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms, creating a comforting yet elegant dinner. I often make this recipe on busy evenings when I want something special but still quick enough for a weeknight. The sauce comes together beautifully in one skillet, delivering deep flavor with minimal effort. What makes Chicken Marsala so appealing is its balance: earthy mushrooms, slightly sweet wine, and juicy chicken all working together in perfect harmony. Served with pasta, mashed potatoes, or even simple rice, this dish feels impressive while remaining incredibly approachable. If you are looking for a dependable, flavorful meal that never fails to satisfy, this Quick Easy Chicken Marsala Recipe is a must-have.

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Quick Easy Chicken Marsala Recipe – Elegant Flavor in Minutes


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  • Author: Natalie
  • Total Time: 25 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Quick and Easy Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish made with lightly pan-seared chicken cutlets simmered in a rich Marsala wine and mushroom sauce—simple, elegant, and ready in under 30 minutes.


Ingredients

  • 4 chicken breasts, thinly sliced or pounded
  • 1/2 cup flour (for dredging)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3/4 cup Marsala wine (sweet preferred)
  • 3/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream (optional for creamier sauce)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish


Instructions

  1. Season flour with salt and pepper, then dredge chicken lightly in the mixture.
  2. Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Cook chicken until golden on both sides (about 3–4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
  4. Add remaining butter to the skillet and sauté mushrooms until browned.
  5. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  6. Pour in Marsala wine and chicken broth. Simmer 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly.
  7. Add cream (optional) and return chicken to the pan; simmer 5 minutes until sauce thickens.
  8. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Notes

  • Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice.
  • Use cremini mushrooms for a richer flavor.
  • For a lighter version, skip the heavy cream.
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 15 mins
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is fast, flavorful, and made in one pan. It delivers classic Chicken Marsala taste with minimal prep and is perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts
Chicken breasts provide a lean, tender base that cooks quickly and evenly.

All-purpose flour
Flour lightly coats the chicken, helping create a golden crust and thicken the sauce.

Salt
Salt enhances the flavor of the chicken and sauce.

Black pepper
Black pepper adds gentle warmth and balance.

Olive oil
Olive oil is used for searing the chicken and adds richness.

Unsalted butter
Butter deepens flavor and creates a silky sauce texture.

Mushrooms
Mushrooms add earthy flavor and classic Chicken Marsala character.

Garlic
Garlic enhances the sauce with savory depth.

Marsala wine
Marsala wine provides signature sweetness and complexity.

Chicken broth
Chicken broth balances the wine and builds a rich sauce.

Fresh parsley
Parsley adds freshness and color before serving.

Directions

Begin by lightly pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season both sides with salt and black pepper, then dredge lightly in flour, shaking off any excess.

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and begin to brown. Stir in garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce slightly, then add chicken broth and continue simmering until the sauce thickens.

Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Simmer gently for a few minutes until everything is well combined. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Variations and Customizations

Quick Easy Chicken Marsala Recipe is easy to customize. You can use chicken thighs for extra juiciness or add a splash of cream for a creamier sauce. For deeper flavor, use a mix of cremini and button mushrooms. If you prefer an alcohol-free version, substitute the Marsala wine with additional broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish is high in protein and contains gluten from flour. It can be adapted using gluten-free flour. Nutritional values vary depending on ingredients and portion size.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Pound Chicken Evenly
This ensures quick, even cooking.

Do Not Overcrowd the Pan
Cook chicken in batches if needed.

Reduce the Sauce
Simmering concentrates flavor and thickens naturally.

FAQs

Is Chicken Marsala sweet?

It is lightly sweet and well balanced.

Can I make this without wine?

Yes, use broth with a splash of vinegar.

What mushrooms work best?

Cremini or button mushrooms are ideal.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, reheat gently before serving.

Is this good for weeknights?

Yes, it is fast and simple.

Can I add cream?

Yes, for a richer sauce.

Does this freeze well?

Freezing is not recommended due to sauce texture.

What sides pair well?

Pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger skillet.

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes, the flavors are mild and comforting.

Conclusion

Quick Easy Chicken Marsala Recipe delivers classic Italian-inspired flavor with minimal effort and maximum comfort. Tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and rich Marsala sauce come together in one skillet for a dependable, elegant meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners alike.

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