Chicken Marsala Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Chicken Marsala Pasta wafting through your kitchen. This dish takes the rich, velvety flavors of classic chicken marsala and marries them with perfectly cooked pasta for a meal that's indulgent yet easy to make.

I first discovered this recipe while experimenting with ways to elevate a simple weeknight dinner. What started as a twist on two family favorites quickly became a household staple. Now, it’s our go-to when we’re craving something hearty and satisfying.

Let me show you why this recipe is bound to become your new favorite!

Why You'll Love This Chicken Marsala Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s as elegant as it is comforting. Chicken Marsala Pasta combines bold flavors, tender textures, and plenty of creamy goodness in one incredible meal.

First, it’s surprisingly quick and easy to prepare. Even though it tastes like something from a fancy Italian restaurant, you can whip this up in under 40 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.

Second, it’s budget-friendly. Using simple ingredients like chicken breast, pasta, and a touch of marsala wine, you can create a dish that feels luxurious without breaking the bank.

Another reason to love this recipe? Its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs, and it’s an excellent way to use up leftover chicken or vegetables.

Lastly, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or impressing dinner guests, the rich, creamy sauce and savory flavors will have everyone reaching for seconds.

So, let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish so special!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Chicken Marsala Pasta lies in its balance of simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering the signature flavors and textures.

• Chicken Breasts: Tender and lean, these are the perfect protein for this dish. Slice them into thin medallions for even cooking, or use pre-cut strips for extra convenience.
• Marsala Wine: This sweet, fortified wine is the star of the show, lending its distinctive flavor to the sauce. If you can’t find marsala, a mix of sherry and a touch of balsamic vinegar works well as a substitute.
• Mushrooms: Cremini or baby bella mushrooms add earthy depth to the sauce. Be sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly and soak up the marsala flavor.
• Pasta: Fettuccine, penne, or linguine work best. Their sturdy shapes hold up beautifully against the creamy sauce.
• Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce so luxurious. You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but the richness of heavy cream really takes this dish to the next level.

You’ll also need basic pantry staples like olive oil, butter, onions, and garlic to round out the flavors. Don’t forget a large skillet and a pot for boiling your pasta!

How To Make This Chicken Marsala Pasta

Making Chicken Marsala Pasta is easier than you think. Let’s walk through the steps to create this decadent dish.

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water for your pasta. Cook it until just al dente, then drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the cooking water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil and sear the chicken medallions in batches until golden brown on both sides. This step locks in their juices and builds flavor for the sauce. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same pan, melt a bit of butter and sauté the sliced mushrooms until they’re golden and fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until aromatic.

Deglaze the pan with marsala wine, scraping up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the wine reduces slightly, intensifying its flavor.

Add the chicken back to the pan, followed by heavy cream and a touch of chicken broth. Stir everything together and let it simmer until the sauce thickens. If it’s too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water will do the trick.

Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, making sure every strand is coated. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan for a finishing touch.

In under 40 minutes, you’ll have a pasta dish that’s creamy, savory, and absolutely irresistible!

Storage Options

Got leftovers? No problem! Chicken Marsala Pasta stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or next-day lunches.

• Refrigerate: Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze this dish in individual portions for up to 2 months. Just make sure the pasta is slightly undercooked, so it doesn’t become mushy upon reheating.
• Reheat: Warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce’s creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to customize it to your liking:

• Protein Swap: Try using shrimp, pork medallions, or even tofu instead of chicken for a fresh twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this recipe celiac-friendly.
• Extra Veggies: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or asparagus for an extra pop of color and nutrients.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk or cashew cream for the heavy cream for a dairy-free version.

Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own – it’s hard to go wrong with such a delicious base!

Now that you’ve got everything you need, it’s time to make this delightful Chicken Marsala Pasta. Gather your ingredients, pour yourself a glass of wine, and enjoy the process – you’re about to create something truly special.

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