Chicken Marsala Pasta

Chicken Marsala Pasta is a delightful fusion of Italian flavors and creamy comfort food. This dish combines tender chicken, a savory Marsala apple vinegar sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a meal that’s both hearty and elegant. With earthy mushrooms, fragrant garlic, and a rich, creamy sauce, this recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressive entertaining. Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian cuisine or looking for a new pasta recipe to elevate your weeknight meals, Chicken Marsala Pasta is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Chicken Marsala Pasta can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of chicken, mushrooms, and creamy sauce offers a taste experience that will delight your palate.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for both casual family dinners and elegant gatherings; impress your guests with ease.
• Customizable Ingredients: Swap out the pasta type or add extra vegetables based on your preferences for variety.
• Comforting Dish: The rich sauce and tender chicken create a cozy meal that everyone at the table will love.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Chicken Marsala Pasta, gather all the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife set

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and creating the flavorful sauce.
• Cooking spoon: Helps in stirring ingredients thoroughly for even cooking.
• Knife set: Ensures precise cutting of chicken and vegetables for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

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

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 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

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

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 to the boiling water.
3. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

1. In a skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are tender (about 5 minutes).
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth and Marsala apple vinegar; bring to a simmer.
4. Allow it to reduce slightly before stirring in heavy cream.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with dried thyme.
2. Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
3. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Toss cooked pasta with the sauce until well-coated.
2. Serve warm garnished with chopped parsley for added freshness.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Marsala Pasta full of rich flavors!

How to Serve Chicken Marsala Pasta

Serving Chicken Marsala Pasta can enhance the dining experience, making your meal visually appealing and delicious. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your family and guests alike.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil for a refreshing side.
• Mixed Greens: A blend of seasonal greens topped with vinaigrette for a light complement.

Add a Bread Basket

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slices brushed with garlic butter; perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Focaccia: Soft Italian bread seasoned with herbs and olive oil, great for soaking up flavors.
• Dinner Rolls: Warm rolls served with butter can be a comforting addition to the meal.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the pasta for a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest adds brightness and balances the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Chicken Marsala Pasta

To create the best Chicken Marsala Pasta, keep these helpful tips in mind to ensure your dish is flavorful and well-prepared.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms, garlic, and herbs elevate the flavor profile significantly.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures your pasta has the right texture and holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
• Sear Chicken Properly: Achieving a golden brown sear on chicken enhances flavor through caramelization.
• Balance Sauce Thickness: Adjust cream or broth quantities based on your preference for sauce thickness; it should coat but not drown the pasta.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste your sauce during cooking to adjust seasoning as needed for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Marsala Pasta

Complementing your Chicken Marsala Pasta with delicious side dishes can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Mixed seasonal veggies roasted with garlic and olive oil for a healthy side dish.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus topped with lemon juice provides a fresh contrast.
3. Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with balsamic vinegar add depth and flavor.
4. Creamy Polenta: Soft polenta can be served alongside or under the pasta for a comforting base.
5. Risotto: A creamy mushroom risotto complements the flavors of the Chicken Marsala beautifully.
6. Simple Green Beans: Sautéed green beans seasoned lightly allow for an easy yet tasty accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Chicken Marsala Pasta from good to great.

• Using the wrong pasta type: Opt for pasta shapes that hold sauce well, such as fettuccine or penne. Avoid overcooked or mushy pasta by following package instructions closely.
• Neglecting seasoning: Properly season each layer of your dish with salt and pepper. Taste as you cook to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
• Overcooking the chicken: Ensure your chicken pieces are cooked just until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This keeps them tender and juicy.
• Skipping the broth: Don’t skip adding chicken broth for a richer flavor. It enhances the overall taste and depth of your sauce.
• Not letting the sauce thicken: Allow the sauce to simmer for a few extra minutes to achieve a creamy texture. Don’t rush this step; it makes all the difference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Chicken Marsala Pasta

• Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Chicken Marsala Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common inquiries regarding Chicken Marsala Pasta.

What is Chicken Marsala Pasta?

Chicken Marsala Pasta is a creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken and mushrooms in a savory Marsala apple vinegar sauce.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute with your favorite pasta shapes like spaghetti, linguine, or even whole grain varieties for a healthier twist.

How can I customize my Chicken Marsala Pasta?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrients. You can also adjust the creaminess by adding more or less heavy cream.

Is Chicken Marsala Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prepping since it stores well and reheats nicely. Just follow storage tips for optimal freshness.

What can I serve with Chicken Marsala Pasta?

Pair this dish with a side salad or garlic bread to complete your meal. A light vegetable medley also complements its flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Marsala Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or pasta shapes according to your preference. This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners at home or impressing guests at gatherings. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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: Lara
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Chicken Marsala Pasta, a creamy and savory dish that seamlessly blends tender chicken and earthy mushrooms with perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is not only quick to prepare—taking just 40 minutes—but also versatile enough to impress at family dinners or gatherings. The rich Marsala apple vinegar sauce, enhanced by fragrant garlic and a hint of thyme, creates a comforting meal that will satisfy everyone at the table. Customize it with your favorite pasta or vegetables for added variety, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or preferred type)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini)
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup chicken broth (for non-alcoholic option)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet, cooking until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté mushrooms until tender, then add minced garlic for one minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth; simmer to reduce slightly before stirring in heavy cream.
5. Return chicken to the skillet with dried thyme and mix in Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the sauce until well-coated. Serve warm garnished with chopped parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
• Calories: 680
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 150mg