When it comes to flavorful yet simple Italian dinners, chicken marsala easy is a top contender. With golden pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a luxurious mushroom and Marsala wine sauce, it’s a recipe that feels both comforting and elegant. I’ve been making this for years and it never fails to impress — even on busy weeknights.

If you’ve enjoyed our Chicken in White Wine Sauce or Homemade Chicken Strips, you’ll fall in love with this easy Chicken Marsala. It offers that same cozy, indulgent feel with a bold twist from the wine-based sauce.

Ingredients You Will Need

For the Chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – 2 large, sliced horizontally
(Creates thin cutlets for quick, even cooking.)
All-purpose flour – 1/2 cup
(For dredging and a light crust.)
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
(To season the chicken.)
Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
(Adds balance to the flavors.)
Garlic powder – 1/2 teaspoon
(For subtle depth.)
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
(For searing the chicken.)
Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons
(Adds richness and flavor.)

For the Marsala Sauce:

Mushrooms – 8 oz, sliced (cremini or white button)
(Earthy and meaty flavor.)
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
(Aromatic and savory.)
Shallot – 1 small, finely chopped
(Adds mild sweetness.)
Marsala wine – 3/4 cup (dry Marsala is best)
(The signature flavor base.)
Chicken broth – 1/2 cup
(Balances and enhances the sauce.)
Heavy cream – 1/3 cup
(Adds silkiness and body.)
Fresh parsley – for garnish
(Brightens the finished dish.)

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 4

Equipment You’ll Need

Large skillet (preferably stainless steel or cast iron)
Tongs or spatula
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

How to Make Chicken Marsala Easy: Step-by-Step

1. Prepare and Dredge the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create 4 thinner cutlets. Place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound to an even 1/2-inch thickness if needed.

In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

3. Cook the Mushrooms and Aromatics

Add the remaining butter to the skillet. Once melted, add sliced mushrooms and cook for 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and their moisture has evaporated.

Stir in the minced garlic and chopped shallot. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

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.

Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

5. Add Cream and Return Chicken

Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce simmer for another 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Return the seared chicken cutlets to the skillet and spoon some sauce over the top. Simmer for 2–3 more minutes until everything is heated through.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Serve warm over mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or alongside roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 370
Protein: 32g
Fat: 21g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 520mg
Cholesterol: 105mg

Tips and Variations

Use Chicken Thighs:
If you prefer dark meat, boneless skinless thighs work well too. Just adjust the cook time as needed.
Make It Gluten-Free:
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Skip the Cream:
For a lighter version, omit the cream and add an extra splash of broth instead. The sauce will still be delicious and slightly more wine-forward.
Alcohol-Free Option:
Replace Marsala wine with chicken broth and a splash of grape juice or balsamic vinegar for depth.
Add Spinach or Kale:
Stir in a handful of spinach or kale at the end for a boost of greens.

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
Chicken Marsala freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat:
Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Marsala is comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make. It’s a timeless dish that feels special without being complicated. The combination of golden seared chicken, rich mushrooms, and velvety wine sauce is hard to resist. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish always makes an impression — with minimal effort and maximum reward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sweet Marsala wine instead of dry?
Dry Marsala is recommended for savory dishes like this one, as it keeps the sauce balanced. Sweet Marsala can make the sauce overly rich, but it can still work in a pinch.
What’s the best type of mushroom for Chicken Marsala?
Cremini or baby bella mushrooms are great for their hearty texture and rich flavor. White button mushrooms are a good alternative if that’s what you have on hand.
Do I need to pound the chicken?
Pounding ensures even cooking and a tender bite. If your chicken breasts are already thin, you can skip this step.
Can I make Chicken Marsala ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the whole dish in advance and reheat gently when ready to serve. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
What sides go well with Chicken Marsala?
Mashed potatoes, pasta, polenta, or crusty bread all pair beautifully. A green salad or steamed veggies round out the meal nicely.

My Final Thoughts

Easy Chicken Marsala is a dish that brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of sophistication to your dinner table. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned home chef, this recipe delivers impressive results every time. With tender chicken, hearty mushrooms, and a bold Marsala sauce, it’s a timeless classic that deserves a spot in your regular rotation. Ready to impress your family or guests tonight? Give this Chicken Marsala recipe a try and let the aromas transport you straight to a cozy Italian trattoria.

Want more comforting chicken dinners? Explore more on Mealova Recipes and make every meal unforgettable!

Sofia