Chicken Marsala Pasta

Chicken Marsala Pasta is a crowd-pleaser that effortlessly combines rich Italian flavors with creamy goodness. This comforting dish makes an ideal choice for family dinners or special occasions. With tender chicken, a savory Marsala apple vinegar sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. The earthy mushrooms and fragrant garlic elevate the flavor profile, making Chicken Marsala Pasta a standout recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 40 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Creamy Comfort: The rich, creamy sauce envelops the pasta and chicken, providing a warm and satisfying meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can swap ingredients based on what’s in your pantry or personal preferences.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it garnished with fresh parsley for an elegant touch that will wow your guests.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a delightful dish that appeals to both adults and kids alike.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to prepare your Chicken Marsala Pasta.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving plates

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and mushrooms while allowing for even heat distribution.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite type)

For the Chicken and Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup Marsala apple vinegar (or substitute with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Chicken Marsala Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the cooking water for later use.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet.
3. Cook until golden brown on all sides, around 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and cook until they are soft, about 4-5 minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth and Marsala apple vinegar (or additional broth) to deglaze the pan; scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Reduce heat to low, then stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet along with drained pasta.
3. Toss everything together; if needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate your Chicken Marsala Pasta generously topped with fresh parsley for garnish.
2. Serve immediately while hot! Enjoy this delightful meal with family or friends!

How to Serve Chicken Marsala Pasta

Chicken Marsala Pasta is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your presentation, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Grated Parmesan: Serve additional grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who love extra richness.

Pair with a Green Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta perfectly.
• Caesar Salad: For a heartier option, a Caesar salad adds crunch and flavor that pairs well with the dish.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter serves as an excellent side to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Herb-Infused Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic and herbs offer a delightful twist.

Add a Crunchy Vegetable

• Steamed Broccoli: Add steamed broccoli on the side for a nutritious boost and vibrant color contrast.
• Sautéed Spinach: Sautéed spinach with garlic is another great option that provides flavor without overwhelming the dish.

How to Perfect Chicken Marsala Pasta

To make your Chicken Marsala Pasta truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients like high-quality chicken and mushrooms to elevate the flavors of your dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook your pasta al dente so it maintains its texture and holds sauce better.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; adjust salt and pepper to ensure balanced flavors in the creamy sauce.
• Use Homemade Broth: Whenever possible, use homemade chicken broth for richer flavor compared to store-bought options.
• Simmer the Sauce Longer: Letting the sauce simmer helps deepen its flavors, making every bite more satisfying.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best served right after cooking to enjoy its creaminess at its peak.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Marsala Pasta

To create a well-rounded meal, pair your Chicken Marsala Pasta with these delightful side dishes.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted in olive oil and garlic adds color and flavor.
2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth mashed potatoes make for a comforting addition alongside the pasta.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar provide freshness.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Light zucchini noodles offer a healthy alternative while complementing the creamy sauce beautifully.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables add nutrition and visual appeal to your plate.
6. Bruschetta: Crispy bruschetta topped with tomatoes and basil makes for an appetizing starter or side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken Marsala Pasta, avoiding common pitfalls can make a significant difference in your dish’s quality.

• Bold ingredient choices: Using the wrong type of pasta can affect the overall texture. Choose fettuccine, penne, or your favorite pasta that holds sauce well.
• Bold overcooking chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Cook until just done, ensuring it remains tender and juicy.
• Bold ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning may lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season your chicken and sauce adequately with salt and pepper.
• Bold rushing the sauce: A rushed sauce will lack depth. Allow the broth and vinegar to reduce properly, enhancing flavor before adding cream.
• Bold skipping fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness. Don’t skip this garnish; it enhances both presentation and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Chicken Marsala Pasta

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Consider portioning into smaller containers for easy reheating.

Reheating Chicken Marsala Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a bit of broth or water to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Marsala Pasta.

Can I use other types of meat for Chicken Marsala Pasta?

You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef if desired. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat used.

How do I make Chicken Marsala Pasta gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta instead of traditional wheat pasta. The other ingredients remain the same for a delicious dish.

What can I serve with Chicken Marsala Pasta?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just combine with pasta when ready to serve.

How do I store leftover Chicken Marsala Pasta?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Marsala Pasta is a versatile dish that brings comfort and elegance together on your table. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Try this delightful recipe today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Chicken Marsala Pasta

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Experience the comforting and rich flavors of Chicken Marsala Pasta, a delightful dish perfect for both family dinners and special occasions. Combining tender chicken pieces with earthy mushrooms in a creamy Marsala apple vinegar sauce, this pasta dish is not only satisfying but also quick to prepare, taking just about 40 minutes from start to finish.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 8 oz mushrooms (sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup Marsala apple vinegar (or additional chicken broth)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and reserve some cooking water.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté seasoned chicken until golden brown; set aside.
3. In the same skillet, cook sliced mushrooms until soft, then add minced garlic.
4. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth and Marsala apple vinegar; allow it to simmer.
5. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, thyme, and return cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet.
6. Toss everything together and add reserved pasta water as needed. Serve garnished with fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 675
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 40g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 130mg