Cozy & Comforting Chicken Marsala Pasta

Chicken Marsala Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, blending the rich and savory flavors of classic Chicken Marsala with the creamy indulgence of pasta. Tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious Marsala wine-infused sauce are tossed with perfectly cooked pasta to create a meal that’s hearty, elegant, and perfect for any occasion.

This dish combines the best of two favorites: the Italian-American chicken Marsala and creamy pasta dishes. It’s an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want to serve something both cozy and impressive. The Marsala wine brings a subtle sweetness to the sauce, while the garlic, cream, and Parmesan elevate the dish to restaurant-quality status.

Whether you’re a pasta lover or a fan of traditional Chicken Marsala, this recipe delivers the ultimate fusion of flavors and textures that will make it a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy: The Marsala wine sauce combined with cream and Parmesan creates a velvety, indulgent flavor.

Comfort Food Classic: Combining hearty pasta with a savory chicken and mushroom sauce makes this the perfect cozy meal for cooler evenings.

Restaurant-Quality: Achieve the depth of flavor of a professional kitchen with this approachable recipe.

Easy to Customize: Add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to make it your own.

Crowd-Pleaser: Both kids and adults will adore this creamy, flavorful pasta dish.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup Marsala wine (use sweet or dry, based on preference)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni pasta
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Lightly dredge them in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and set aside (the chicken will finish cooking later).

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Sauté the mushrooms over medium heat until they are golden brown and tender, about 5–6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Marsala Sauce

1. Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
2. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring it is fully submerged in the sauce. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.

Ingredient Background

Marsala Wine

Marsala wine is a fortified wine from Sicily that adds a sweet or dry, nutty flavor to the dish. Choose sweet Marsala for a richer sauce or dry Marsala for a more savory result.

Mushrooms

Cremini or button mushrooms add an earthy depth of flavor to the sauce, enhancing the richness of the dish.

Parmesan Cheese

Freshly grated Parmesan gives the sauce its savory, nutty flavor while thickening it slightly.

Heavy Cream

Heavy cream creates a smooth, luxurious sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta and chicken.

Technique Tips

Sear the Chicken: Searing the chicken adds a layer of flavor to the dish and helps lock in its juices.

Deglaze the Pan: Scraping up the browned bits when adding the Marsala wine ensures that the sauce captures all the delicious flavors from the pan.

Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly, so grate fresh Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to absorb the sauce when combined in the skillet.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Individual Servings: Plate the pasta and chicken in individual bowls, garnished with parsley and Parmesan for a polished presentation.

Casserole Style: Combine the pasta, chicken, and sauce in a baking dish. Top with mozzarella or Parmesan and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Low-Carb Option: Serve the Marsala chicken and sauce over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.

Family-Style Platter: Serve the dish on a large platter, with the chicken layered on top of the pasta for a rustic, shared presentation.

Additional Tips for Success

Taste and Adjust: Always taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or Parmesan to suit your preferences.

Keep Warm: If serving later, keep the pasta warm by covering the skillet with a lid and placing it over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Use Good-Quality Wine: Since the wine is a key flavor component, choose a quality Marsala wine you would enjoy drinking.

Recipe Variations

Mushroom Marsala: Double the mushrooms and omit the chicken for a vegetarian twist on this classic dish.

Shrimp Marsala Pasta: Replace the chicken with large shrimp. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side before adding to the sauce.

Spinach Marsala Pasta: Stir in fresh spinach during the final minutes of cooking for added greens and nutrients.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free blend.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Freezing: Freeze the sauce and chicken (without the pasta) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving with freshly cooked pasta.

Reheating Tip: Avoid overheating, as the cream sauce may separate. Stir frequently over low heat for best results.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Lighten the Cream Sauce: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce fat content while maintaining creaminess.

Add Veggies: Incorporate steamed broccoli, kale, or roasted red peppers for added nutrients and color.

Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap traditional pasta with whole wheat or chickpea pasta for more fiber and protein.

Lean Protein: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or ground turkey for a leaner alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Elegant Dinner Party: Plate the pasta and chicken with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve alongside a crisp Caesar salad and a basket of warm garlic bread.

Family Dinner: Serve the pasta in a large skillet or casserole dish family-style, with extra Parmesan on the side for topping.

Romantic Dinner: Pair with a bottle of Pinot Noir or Chardonnay and set the mood with candles for a cozy, romantic evening.

Holiday Meal: Add this dish to your holiday table as a unique pasta option that pairs well with roasted vegetables and crusty bread.

Special Equipment

Large Skillet: A wide, heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking and provides enough space to toss the pasta with the sauce.

Tongs: Useful for tossing the pasta gently and plating long noodles like fettuccine or linguine.

Microplane Grater: Ideal for finely grating Parmesan cheese and garlic.

Meat Thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked to the perfect internal temperature of 165°F.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use another type of wine?
   Yes, white wine or dry sherry can be used as substitutes, but they will alter the flavor slightly.
2. What pasta works best for this recipe?
   Long pasta like fettuccine or linguine works well, but short shapes like penne or rigatoni are also excellent choices.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
   Use a non-dairy cream alternative and vegan Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.
4. What if I don’t have Marsala wine?
   You can substitute chicken broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar or grape juice for a similar flavor profile.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, but cook and toss with the pasta just before serving for the best texture.
6. What can I serve with this dish?
   Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted asparagus pair beautifully with this creamy pasta.
7. Can I freeze leftovers?
   The chicken and sauce freeze well, but it’s best to cook fresh pasta when reheating.
8. How do I thicken the sauce?
   Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to the simmering sauce for extra thickness.

Conclusion

Cozy & Comforting Chicken Marsala Pasta is a flavorful and indulgent dish that combines tender chicken, creamy Marsala sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta into one irresistible meal. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, this recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Serve it to your family or guests, and watch as the rich, earthy flavors of Marsala wine, garlic, and Parmesan delight everyone at the table. This versatile and easy-to-make dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Try it tonight and bring a taste of Italian-inspired comfort to your kitchen!

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