There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of creamy chicken Marsala pasta. The rich, velvety sauce envelops each strand of pasta, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I tried this dish at a cozy Italian restaurant. The flavors danced on my palate, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. The beauty of this recipe is that it brings that restaurant-quality experience right into your kitchen, allowing you to impress family and friends without breaking a sweat.
As a passionate home cook, I love sharing recipes that not only taste amazing but also evoke memories and warmth. This creamy chicken Marsala pasta is one of those dishes that has become a staple in my home. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, and the best part? You can whip it up in just about 40 minutes! So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
Ingredients List
8 oz fettuccine or pasta of your choice: I love using fettuccine for its ability to hold onto the creamy sauce, but feel free to swap it out for your favorite pasta.
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Slice these into thin strips for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
2 tablespoons olive oil: This will be used to sauté the chicken, giving it a lovely golden color.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds richness to the sauce and helps in sautéing the aromatics.
1 small onion, finely chopped: This will provide a sweet base flavor when sautéed.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth to the dish.
8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced: These mushrooms bring an earthy flavor that complements the sauce beautifully.
1 cup Marsala wine: This sweet wine is key to achieving that signature flavor in the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: The star of the show! It creates that luscious, creamy texture we all love.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a salty, nutty flavor that ties everything together.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A sprinkle of parsley not only adds color but also a fresh touch to the dish.
How to Prepare Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta
Step 1: Boil Water
Start by filling a large pot with water and adding a generous amount of salt. This is crucial for flavoring the pasta. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add your fettuccine or pasta of choice. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until it reaches al dente. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander, but save a cup of the pasta water for later use.
Step 2: Season Chicken
While the pasta cooks, take your sliced chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper. Make sure to coat each piece evenly. This simple step enhances the flavor of the chicken and ensures every bite is delicious.
Step 3: Sauté Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken strips. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. It’s important to remove the chicken from the skillet once it’s done to prevent overcooking. Set it aside on a plate while you prepare the sauce.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once melted, toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning. The aroma will be heavenly!
Step 5: Add Mushrooms
Next, add the sliced cremini or button mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they are browned and tender. This step adds a wonderful earthy flavor to the sauce, making it even more delicious.
Step 6: Deglaze with Wine
Now it’s time to pour in 1 cup of Marsala wine. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the skillet, releasing all those flavorful browned bits. Let the wine simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it reduces slightly. This will concentrate the flavors and give your sauce depth.
Step 7: Add Cream
Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Keep an eye on it, as you want that perfect creamy consistency without boiling it too hard.
Step 8: Combine
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Serve your creamy chicken Marsala pasta hot, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that brightens the dish. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying creamy chicken Marsala pasta, it’s good to know what you’re indulging in. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
Calories: 600
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 30g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy this delicious dish while being mindful of your dietary needs!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Preparation: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Easy to Cook: The step-by-step instructions make it simple, even for beginner cooks.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of Marsala wine, cream, and Parmesan creates a rich, comforting sauce that’s hard to resist.
Versatile Dish: You can easily customize it by swapping out the pasta or adding your favorite vegetables.
Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish looks as good as it tastes, perfect for impressing guests.
Family Favorite: It’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners.
Tips for Success
To ensure your creamy chicken Marsala pasta turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips I’ve gathered from my own kitchen adventures:
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken while it cooks. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough pieces. Aim for a golden brown color and remove it from the skillet as soon as it’s cooked through.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and mushrooms make a noticeable difference in flavor. Whenever possible, opt for fresh over dried or canned.
Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a bit of the reserved pasta water. This will help achieve that creamy texture without compromising flavor.
Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan is traditional, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile.
Let the Sauce Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer for a few extra minutes can deepen the flavors. Just be careful not to let it boil too vigorously.
Garnish Generously: A good sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s flavor. Don’t skip this step!
Pair with the Right Wine: If you enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, consider serving the same Marsala wine used in the dish. It complements the flavors beautifully.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this creamy chicken Marsala pasta recipe. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about creamy chicken Marsala pasta is its versatility. You can easily switch things up to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some fun variations to consider:
Different Pasta Types: While fettuccine is a classic choice, you can use penne, rigatoni, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Each type brings its own texture and flavor to the dish.
Add Vegetables: Boost the nutrition and flavor by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté them along with the mushrooms for a colorful and hearty dish.
Alternative Proteins: If you’re looking for a change, try using shrimp or scallops instead of chicken. They cook quickly and pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Mushroom Medley: Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, for a richer flavor profile. Mixing varieties can elevate the dish even further.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil to the sauce for an aromatic twist. Just a few leaves can enhance the overall flavor and freshness.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. This adds a delightful warmth to the dish.
Vegan Option: For a plant-based version, substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. You can also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your perfect creamy chicken Marsala pasta. The possibilities are endless, and each twist can lead to a new favorite dish!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After enjoying your creamy chicken Marsala pasta, you might find yourself with some delicious leftovers. Storing and reheating them properly ensures you can savor this dish again without losing its wonderful flavors.
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to seal it tightly to prevent any air from getting in, which can lead to drying out. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Just be aware that the cream sauce may change in texture once thawed.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is key. The best method is to use the stovetop. Place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. This method helps maintain the creamy texture.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Transfer the pasta to a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed to your liking. Just be cautious not to overheat, as this can cause the sauce to separate.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your creamy chicken Marsala pasta just as much the next day!
Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta is a delicious restaurant-quality dish you can make at home.
Ingredients
Scale
8 oz fettuccine or pasta of your choice
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
1 cup Marsala wine
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
Season Chicken: Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté until they are browned and tender, about 5 minutes.
Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.
Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish and Serve: Serve the creamy chicken Marsala pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
Adjust seasoning to your preference.
Use any pasta of your choice.
Fresh parsley adds a nice touch to the presentation.
