Name: Delicious Chicken Marsala Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces uncooked pasta (your choice, such as penne or fettuccine); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter, divided; 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Flour, for dredging; 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced; 1/2 cup marsala wine; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream; Salt & pepper to taste; Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional, to taste)

If you’re hunting for a pasta dish that blends rich flavors and a creamy texture, look no further than this Chicken Marsala Pasta Recipe. Imagine tender pieces of chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and a robust Marsala wine sauce enveloping each strand of pasta. This satisfying dish is not only a delightful addition to your weeknight dinners but also an excellent way to impress guests on special occasions. With its comforting flavors, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

One of the best aspects of this Chicken Marsala Pasta is its simplicity. This dish allows you to whip up a delicious and gourmet meal in under 30 minutes. No need for fancy kitchen gadgets or excessive prep work; just some basic ingredients, a skillet, and your favorite pasta! Plus, you can easily customize it with your choice of pasta and adjust the ingredients to meet dietary preferences. Ready to dive into this creamy, quick, and delicious Chicken Marsala Pasta recipe?

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Marsala Pasta

Quick and Easy: Perfect for a weeknight meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Comforting Flavors: A delightful mix of chicken, mushrooms, and creamy Marsala sauce.
Customizable: Swap in your favorite pasta or dietary alternatives for a personal touch.
Impressive Presentation: A crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all your ingredients laid out and measured. This will streamline your cooking process and ensure you don’t miss any critical steps. Gather a large pot for boiling the pasta and a large skillet to cook the chicken and sauce. A wooden spoon will be handy for stirring, and using a set of measuring spoons can help with accurate ingredient amounts. If you have a pasta strainer, that will make draining the pasta a breeze. Make sure to also have a cheese grater ready for that fresh parmesan finish!

Ingredients

8 ounces uncooked pasta (your choice, such as penne or fettuccine)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter, divided
2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Flour, for dredging
8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup marsala wine
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
Salt & pepper to taste
Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional, to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Begin by filling a large pot with water and setting it over high heat. Once the water comes to a boil, add a generous amount of salt — this is your chance to infuse the pasta with flavor as it cooks. Add 8 ounces of your preferred pasta, whether that’s penne or fettuccine, and cook according to the package directions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is boiling, take your chicken pieces and season them with garlic powder, followed by a light dusting of flour to create a nice outer crust. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the chicken pieces and let them cook for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for a light golden color here, so turn and adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking. When done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

With the chicken resting, add the remaining tablespoon of butter into the same skillet. Toss in your sliced cremini mushrooms and sauté them for 3-4 minutes. This process allows the mushrooms to release their moisture and develop a lovely golden-brown hue. Once ready, take the mushrooms out and place them alongside the chicken.

Step 4: Prepare the Marsala Sauce

Now it’s time to make that luscious Marsala sauce. In the hot skillet, pour in the chicken broth and marsala wine, quickly followed by the Dijon mustard. Stir the mixture thoroughly until the mustard has dissolved completely. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2 minutes so it reduces a bit and intensifies in flavor.

Step 5: Combine Components

Lower the heat to medium, then return the cooked chicken and sautéed mushrooms back into the skillet. Gently fold in the heavy cream and stir everything together to ensure every piece is coated in the creamy, savory sauce. Keep cooking until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is heated through.

Step 6: Toss the Pasta

At this point, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the drained pasta into the skillet, gently tossing it in the sauce. Make sure to coat every pasta piece thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for that gourmet touch. Serve hot and enjoy every mouthful of this delicious Chicken Marsala Pasta!

Variations

Protein: Consider substituting chicken with shrimp or turkey for a different flavor profile.
Vegetables: Add spinach or steamed broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
Spices: Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the depth of flavor.

Cooking Notes

This dish is highly adaptable. Opt for gluten-free pasta if necessary, or use dairy substitutes to accommodate allergies.
For a bit of spice, incorporate red pepper flakes to the sauce for an added kick.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal experience.
A fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette pairs beautifully with this dish.

Tips

Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to cater to your palate.
Using freshly grated Parmesan versus pre-grated gives better flavor and texture to this dish.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: About 30g per serving
Sodium: 650mg per serving

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe allows for various pasta types. Feel free to swap in your favorites like penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options.

Is Marsala wine necessary for this dish?

Yes, Marsala wine is key to achieving the authentic flavor of this dish. If unavailable, you can use a dry sherry or Madeira as a substitute.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time. Store the cooked sauce and pasta separately and combine before serving to prevent sogginess.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter version, try using half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for a dairy-free option.

Conclusion

This Chicken Marsala Pasta Recipe combines the best of Italians flavors with convenience and ease. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta create a dish that not only nourishes but also invites delightful conversations at the dining table. Don’t be shy — try various substitutions and make it your own! We’d love to hear your thoughts, tips, and any unique variations you’ve tried in the comments below. Happy cooking!