Transform your weeknight dinner with the irresistible Chicken Marsala Casserole! This comforting dish marries the classic elegance of Chicken Marsala with the ease of a one-pan casserole, making it a family-friendly meal that’s rich in flavor without the fuss. Perfect for busy evenings or gatherings, this casserole packs all the delightful elements of the traditional Chicken Marsala—succulent chicken, savory sautéed mushrooms, and a luscious Marsala wine sauce—into a warm and cheesy pasta bake that the whole family will adore.
The appeal of Chicken Marsala Casserole lies not just in its incredible flavor but also in its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a gourmet dish that feels special yet is straightforward enough for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken and al dente pasta enveloped in a creamy sauce, then topped with gooey mozzarella and crispy breadcrumbs for the perfect golden finish. Your taste buds are in for a treat!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Marsala Casserole
- One-Pan Comfort Food: Everything—chicken, pasta, and vegetables—bakes together for an effortless meal.
- Rich Marsala Flavor: The signature mushroom-wine sauce gives the casserole a gourmet touch.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps, minimal prep, and pantry-friendly ingredients.
- Family-Friendly: Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying for all ages.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this savory masterpiece, it’s essential to set up your workspace efficiently. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to have it ready when your casserole is assembled. Gather your tools: you’ll need a large skillet for sautéing your chicken and vegetables, a mixing bowl for blending your casserole ingredients, and a 9×13-inch baking dish that will hold everything together harmoniously.
Make sure your ingredients are measured and within arm’s reach, so you can move smoothly through the cooking process without interruptions. Having chopped and prepared your garlic, onion, and mushrooms will save time and make the assembly stage easier. Once everything is set, you are well on your way to making a delicious Chicken Marsala Casserole.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup Marsala wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked penne pasta
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) while greasing your 9×13-inch baking dish, which will eventually cradle your flavorful casserole. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour in the olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, add the bite-sized pieces of chicken. Season with salt and pepper, and let it cook until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms and Aromatics
In the same skillet, without wiping it clean, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture becomes fragrant and the onions are translucent. Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté them until they are golden and tender, which will take about 5 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your casserole.
Step 3: Make the Marsala Sauce
Once the mushrooms are ready, it’s time to create the luscious Marsala sauce! Pour in the cup of Marsala wine along with the chicken broth. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and rosemary, then bring it all to a gentle simmer. Allow this mixture to cook for about 5 minutes, letting the sauce slightly reduce and thicken. This step enhances the flavors and brings richness to the dish.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, the browned chicken, and the aromatic mushroom mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure each component is coated evenly in the Marsala sauce. This mixture gets transferred into the prepared baking dish, which will act as the home for all these delicious layers. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the top for that cheesy goodness!
Step 5: Add the Topping
To give your casserole a delightful crunch, prepare the breadcrumb topping. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and an additional ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheesy layer. This will create a golden and crispy surface once baked, elevating the overall texture of the dish.
Step 6: Bake
Place your assembled casserole into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling deliciously. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time will drive your appetite wild!
Step 7: Serve
After the casserole has finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish your masterpiece with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm, and watch as the satisfaction of the dish brings everyone around the dinner table.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein for a different twist.
- Vegetables: Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for a nutrient boost and extra flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning to customize the flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- For the best flavor, use quality Marsala wine that you would enjoy drinking.
- Let your casserole cool slightly before cutting into it; this helps it maintain its shape.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- A glass of white wine pairs beautifully with this rich casserole.
Tips
- Make sure to cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to soften during baking.
- Feel free to prepare this casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Marsala Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What type of Marsala wine should I use?
Opt for a dry Marsala wine for the best flavor. Sweet Marsala can work too, but it will alter the taste of the dish.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked casserole. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I serve with Chicken Marsala Casserole?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
Conclusion
This Chicken Marsala Casserole is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of a classic dish while embracing the ease of one-pan cooking. Packed with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and rich cheese, this casserole promises to be a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table. So why not gather your family and treat them to this flavorful comfort food? Don’t forget to share your thoughts or any variations you tried in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Print
Chicken Marsala Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Marsala Casserole is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of a classic dish while embracing the ease of one-pan cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup Marsala wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked penne pasta
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) while greasing your 9×13-inch baking dish, which will eventually cradle your flavorful casserole. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour in the olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, add the bite-sized pieces of chicken. Season with salt and pepper, and let it cook until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, without wiping it clean, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture becomes fragrant and the onions are translucent. Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté them until they are golden and tender, which will take about 5 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your casserole.
- Once the mushrooms are ready, it’s time to create the luscious Marsala sauce! Pour in the cup of Marsala wine along with the chicken broth. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and rosemary, then bring it all to a gentle simmer. Allow this mixture to cook for about 5 minutes, letting the sauce slightly reduce and thicken. This step enhances the flavors and brings richness to the dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, the browned chicken, and the aromatic mushroom mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure each component is coated evenly in the Marsala sauce. This mixture gets transferred into the prepared baking dish, which will act as the home for all these delicious layers. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the top for that cheesy goodness!
- To give your casserole a delightful crunch, prepare the breadcrumb topping. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and an additional ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheesy layer. This will create a golden and crispy surface once baked, elevating the overall texture of the dish.
- Place your assembled casserole into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling deliciously. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time will drive your appetite wild!
- After the casserole has finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish your masterpiece with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm, and watch as the satisfaction of the dish brings everyone around the dinner table.
Notes
For the best flavor, use quality Marsala wine that you would enjoy drinking. Let your casserole cool slightly before cutting into it; this helps it maintain its shape.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 30 g