This Herbed Chicken Marsala with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion without the fuss. The combination of aromatic herbs and rich, creamy sauce will make your taste buds dance!
Chicken breasts are the star of the show, offering a lean protein that's versatile and easy to cook. All-purpose flour helps to create a light crust on the chicken, ensuring a nice, golden brown exterior. Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the dish. The dried Italian herbs add an aromatic note that complements the wine beautifully.
Olive oil and unsalted butter are used for cooking the chicken and mushrooms, adding richness and flavor. Cremini mushrooms bring an earthy taste and a lovely texture to the sauce. Marsala wine is the key ingredient that gives this dish its distinct flavor, while chicken broth adds depth to the sauce. Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and luscious, and garlic gives a fragrant kick. Finally, fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness and color to the finished dish.
This dish pairs perfectly with a side of buttery mashed potatoes or garlic-infused rice. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the sauce. If you’re feeling fancy, a side of roasted asparagus or green beans would add a lovely crunch.
Start by pounding the chicken breasts to about half an inch thickness. This helps them cook evenly and quickly. Season them generously with the salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Once seasoned, dredge each chicken piece in all-purpose flour, making sure to shake off any excess. This step ensures a nice, golden crust when you cook them.
Grab a large skillet and heat up the olive oil along with two tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, place the chicken in the skillet. Cook until they’re golden brown on each side, roughly four minutes per side. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, toss in the remaining unsalted butter and the cremini mushrooms you've sliced. Cook those until they're a beautiful golden brown. This should take a few minutes. Add in the minced garlic and cook for just a minute more; you’ll know it’s ready when it smells divine.
Next, pour in the Marsala wine and chicken broth, and be sure to scrape up any delicious brown bits stuck to the skillet. Bring this mixture to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream. Return the chicken to the skillet and let everything cook together for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the chicken to cook through completely.
Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and savor the wonderful blend of flavors.