If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality meal that’s rich, flavorful, and easy to make at home, Chicken Marsala Pasta is a must-try. This dish combines the bold, earthy flavor of Marsala wine and mushrooms with the comfort of tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a hearty, creamy, and sophisticated meal that can turn an ordinary dinner into something truly special.
What Is Chicken Marsala Pasta?
Chicken Marsala Pasta is a creative spin on the classic Chicken Marsala—a traditional Italian-American dish featuring sautéed chicken in a creamy Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms. The addition of pasta makes it even more satisfying and versatile, turning it into a complete meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Rich and savory flavor thanks to Marsala wine and mushrooms
- Creamy and comforting with a velvety sauce that coats every bite
- Quick and easy—ready in about 30 minutes
- Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for weeknights
- Customizable with your choice of pasta and add-ins like spinach or peas
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Sauce and Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or farfalle work well)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup dry Marsala wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: baby spinach or peas for extra greens
How to Make Chicken Marsala Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Season chicken slices with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
In the same skillet, add butter and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until golden and tender, about 5–7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Deglaze with Marsala Wine
Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavor.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce
Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cream and Parmesan cheese, letting it simmer until slightly thickened. Add reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
6. Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use dry Marsala wine (not sweet) for a rich, savory sauce.
- Slice chicken thinly for quick, even cooking.
- Don’t skip the flour coating — it helps brown the chicken and thickens the sauce.
- Deglaze properly to capture all the flavors in the pan.
- Add spinach or peas during the last few minutes for extra color and nutrition.
Delicious Variations
- Creamy Mushroom Marsala Pasta (Vegetarian): Skip the chicken and add more mushrooms or use tofu.
- Bacon or Pancetta Add-In: Add crispy bits for extra savory depth.
- Spicy Marsala Pasta: Add red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve the Marsala chicken over zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash instead of pasta.
What to Serve with Chicken Marsala Pasta
- Garlic Bread or Focaccia
- Caesar Salad or Arugula Salad
- Steamed green beans or roasted vegetables
- A glass of dry white wine or extra Marsala wine
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Freezing Tip: While the sauce freezes well, cooked pasta may become mushy, so it’s best to freeze the sauce and fresh-cook the pasta later.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Marsala Pasta is the perfect dish for anyone who loves comfort food with a touch of elegance. With tender chicken, hearty mushrooms, and a creamy Marsala wine sauce, it’s both satisfying and refined. Whether you’re impressing dinner guests or treating yourself to a cozy meal, this dish delivers gourmet flavor with minimal fuss.
Give it a try, and it might just become your new favorite pasta night recipe!