Chicken Marsala Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the aroma of Chicken Marsala Pasta filling your kitchen. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta come together to make a dish that's both elegant and comforting. This recipe is a family favorite, a delightful twist on classic Chicken Marsala, designed to be quick enough for weeknight dinners while also impressive enough for guests.

this Recipe

I first discovered this dish when experimenting with Italian flavors, and it’s been a beloved staple in our house ever since. With every bite, you get a symphony of savory, earthy, and slightly sweet flavors that keeps everyone coming back for more. Ready to make your kitchen smell amazing?

Why You'll Love This Chicken Marsala Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with a pasta recipe that's destined to become a regular in your meal rotation. Chicken Marsala Pasta isn’t just delicious—it’s a showstopper for several reasons.

First, it's incredibly quick and easy. You can have this meal on the table in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Despite the short prep time, the flavors develop beautifully, tasting like you spent hours in the kitchen.

The combination of creamy and savory flavors is irresistible. The velvety sauce coats every piece of pasta, while the sautéed mushrooms add an earthy depth that balances the dish perfectly. It’s rich and satisfying without being too heavy.

If you’re cooking for a crowd, you’ll appreciate how budget-friendly this dish is. Using simple pantry ingredients, you can feed a whole family without breaking the bank. Plus, it's versatile enough to customize based on your preferences or what's in your fridge.

Finally, the leftovers (if there are any!) are even more delicious the next day. The sauce melds with the pasta overnight, making it perfect for a satisfying lunch. Let's dive into what makes this dish truly shine.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Chicken Marsala Pasta lies in its simple, carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating a balanced and flavorful dish.

Pasta

The pasta serves as the foundation, and I recommend using fettuccine or spaghetti. Their long, slender shapes soak up the sauce beautifully, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. If you prefer, penne or rigatoni also work well, especially for a heartier feel.

Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my top pick for this recipe. They’re lean, cook quickly, and absorb the rich sauce effortlessly. Cut them into thin slices or bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly and remain tender. Chicken thighs are another great option if you want even more flavor.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are essential for that deep, earthy flavor. I love using cremini or white button mushrooms because they cook down perfectly and add a savory balance to the sauce. If you have access to wild mushrooms, feel free to use them for an even more intense flavor.

Broth and Cream

For the sauce, a blend of chicken broth and heavy cream creates the perfect consistency. The broth adds a light, savory base, while the cream makes the sauce rich and velvety. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, but keep in mind the sauce will be less creamy.

Seasonings and Garnish

A few simple seasonings, like garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, elevate the dish without overpowering it. Fresh parsley is the perfect garnish, adding a pop of color and brightness. Don't forget a generous sprinkling of grated parmesan cheese for that extra touch of umami.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe. Just grab your favorite large skillet and a pasta pot, and you're good to go.

How To Make This Chicken Marsala Pasta

Creating this mouthwatering Chicken Marsala Pasta is simpler than you might think. Let me guide you through the process, and you’ll see just how easy it is to bring this dish to life.

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add your pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil and let it warm up. Once hot, add the sliced chicken pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian herbs. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes, developing a golden-brown crust, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

In the same skillet, add another drizzle of olive oil and toss in your mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they release their moisture and start to brown. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes, reducing slightly to concentrate the flavors. Lower the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce thicken for 2-3 minutes, then return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it in the creamy sauce.

Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, use some reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a generous handful of grated parmesan. Serve hot and watch everyone dig in!

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing this Chicken Marsala Pasta is a breeze. Transfer any cooled pasta to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave a little space at the top for expansion. It will keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce.

When reheating, use a skillet over low heat to maintain the creamy texture. Stir frequently to prevent the sauce from separating, and add a bit more liquid if necessary. Microwaving also works, but be sure to cover the pasta to retain moisture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, making it easy to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some delicious variations to try.

For a vegetarian version, simply skip the chicken and double up on the mushrooms. You can also add some sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.

If you want to incorporate more veggies, consider adding broccoli florets or bell peppers. Just toss them into the skillet with the mushrooms to soften before adding the sauce.

Prefer a dairy-free option? You can substitute the heavy cream with a coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk, though the sauce will have a slightly different flavor profile. Use a vegan parmesan alternative to complete the dish.

For a protein boost, swap the chicken with sliced turkey breast or cooked chickpeas. Both pair wonderfully with the creamy mushroom sauce, providing variety without compromising on taste.

Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own. Whether you stick to the classic or put your unique spin on it, Chicken Marsala Pasta is a surefire way to impress. Enjoy!

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