If you're a fan of creamy, savory dishes packed with rich flavors, then Chicken Marsala Casserole is a recipe you won't want to miss. Combining the beloved flavors of the classic Italian dish Chicken Marsala with the comfort and ease of a casserole, this meal is a guaranteed hit for family dinners or casual get-togethers. In this article, we'll dive deep into every detail you need to know to prepare this fantastic dish. From the ingredients to step-by-step instructions, and even substitutions and presentation tips, you'll have everything you need to make this recipe a success. So, read on to discover the magic of Chicken Marsala Casserole and why it deserves a spot on your meal rotation!
What is Chicken Marsala Casserole?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s break down what exactly Chicken Marsala Casserole is. Traditionally, Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish made with pan-fried chicken cutlets, Marsala wine, mushrooms, and a savory sauce. The casserole version takes these same key flavors and ingredients but layers them into a baked dish, making it an easier option to serve for larger groups or meal prep. This fusion of flavors delivers all the richness of Marsala wine, tender chicken, and savory mushrooms in a creamy, cheesy casserole that's baked to perfection.
Ingredients List for Chicken Marsala Casserole
To make a delicious Chicken Marsala Casserole, you'll need a combination of fresh ingredients, pantry staples, and a few specialty items. Here’s a complete breakdown of everything you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 cups cremini or button mushrooms (sliced)
- 1 cup Marsala wine (dry Marsala is recommended for authentic flavor)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (for a creamy texture)
- 1½ cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening the sauce)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Casserole Base:
- 4 cups cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni works best)
- 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs (for a crunchy topping)
- 2 tablespoon butter (melted, to mix with breadcrumbs)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Substitutions and Variations
Chicken Marsala Casserole is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta, and use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for the sauce.
- Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly: Skip the pasta altogether and replace it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. You can also cut down on the amount of breadcrumbs used for the topping.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh. For an extra boost of protein, you can add cooked lentils or chickpeas.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute in place of heavy cream. Swap out the cheese for your favorite dairy-free alternatives.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking Chicken Marsala Casserole is an easy and straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you get perfect results every time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). You’ll want your oven hot and ready to bake the casserole once it’s fully assembled.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: Cook the Mushrooms and Onions
In the same skillet, add another 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and onions, cooking until they are softened and the mushrooms are golden, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Prepare the Marsala Sauce
Sprinkle 3 tablespoon of flour over the mushrooms and onions, stirring constantly to coat them. Gradually add in the Marsala wine, whisking to deglaze the pan. Let the wine cook down for 2-3 minutes before adding the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the sauce begins to thicken, then season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 6: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and the Marsala sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are well-coated with the sauce. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish.
Step 7: Add the Cheese and Topping
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the casserole. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the cheese layer for a crispy topping.
Step 8: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
Step 9: Let it Rest and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to slice and serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Be sure to cook your pasta al dente. Overcooked pasta will turn mushy once baked in the casserole.
- Using Sweet Marsala: For an authentic savory Chicken Marsala taste, stick with dry Marsala wine. Sweet Marsala will make the dish overly sweet.
- Skipping the Breadcrumbs: The buttery panko breadcrumb topping adds a nice crunchy texture to the creamy casserole. Don’t skip this step!
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation matters, especially when serving a crowd. Here are a few ideas to elevate the look and appeal of your Chicken Marsala Casserole:
How to Serve Chicken Marsala Casserole:
- Serve with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a balanced meal.
- Offer a crusty garlic bread on the side to mop up the creamy sauce.
- A light, fruity white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the rich flavors of Chicken Marsala.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken Marsala Casserole:
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top of the casserole for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a more formal presentation, especially if you're hosting a dinner party.
- Plate each serving with a side of roasted vegetables for added color and flavor.
Chicken Marsala Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Prepare the dish as directed but stop before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and bake as directed.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of wine instead of Marsala?
A: While Marsala wine provides the authentic flavor for this dish, you can substitute dry sherry or a dry white wine in a pinch. However, keep in mind that the taste will differ slightly.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred the chicken and add it in during the sauce-combining step.
Q: Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
A: Absolutely! Chicken Marsala Casserole can be made ahead of time, stored, and reheated, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
A: Yes, feel free to add veggies like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Conclusion
Chicken Marsala Casserole is a wonderful dish that brings together the flavors of a beloved Italian classic with the ease and comfort of a baked casserole. Whether you're serving it for a weeknight family dinner or prepping it ahead of time for a busy week, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. With its rich Marsala wine sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy, crispy topping, it's hard to go wrong with this dish. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a meal that's bursting with flavor. Happy cooking!
PrintChicken Marsala Casserole Recipe
This Chicken Marsala Casserole recipe brings together tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and the rich flavor of Marsala wine in a comforting, baked dish. Perfect for family dinners, this casserole offers a delicious twist on the classic Chicken Marsala, prepared in one pan for easy cleanup. Great for weeknights, this recipe is full of flavor and satisfying textures that everyone will enjoy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup Marsala wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- ½ tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli), cooked
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms until soft.
- Stir in the Marsala wine and simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme. Let simmer until thickened.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and pasta, coating them in the sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the pasta with rice for a gluten-free option.
- For extra flavor, add ¼ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 460 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
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