Classic Chicken Marsala

Easy 30-Minute Italian Chicken Recipe

Bring restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen with this Classic Chicken Marsala recipe! Tender, golden pan-seared chicken breasts are simmered in a rich Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms and garlic. This quick and easy Italian dinner is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

4 thin boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 large breasts sliced in half lengthwise)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
4 teaspoons olive oil, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces white or cremini mushrooms, sliced
1 cup dry Marsala wine
½ cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
12 ounces cooked spaghetti (optional, for serving)

How to Make Classic Chicken Marsala

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Lightly coat each piece in flour, shaking off any excess. This helps create a golden crust and thickens the sauce.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 75°C).
Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil.
Add sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Marsala Sauce

Pour in the dry Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off slightly.
Add the chicken broth and continue simmering for 5–7 minutes, until the sauce reduces and thickens.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the chicken to the skillet.
Spoon the mushroom Marsala sauce over the top and let everything simmer together for 3–5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over spaghetti, fettuccine, or mashed potatoes.
Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Add crusty bread to soak up the delicious Marsala sauce.

Pro Tips

Use dry Marsala wine for authentic flavor (not sweet).
Do not overcrowd the pan when browning the chicken.
For a creamy variation, stir in 2–3 tablespoons of heavy cream at the end.