What To Know
- The dish is said to have been created in the 19th century by a chef who was trying to impress a visiting Englishman.
- The chef used Marsala wine, a local specialty, to create a sauce that would complement the delicate flavor of the chicken.
- Add the Marsala wine to the skillet and bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Chicken Marsala is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and flavorful Marsala wine sauce. The combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors makes this dish a favorite among home cooks and restaurant-goers alike.
The Origins of Chicken Marsala
The origins of Chicken Marsala are somewhat disputed, but it is believed to have originated in the western Sicilian town of Marsala. The dish is said to have been created in the 19th century by a chef who was trying to impress a visiting Englishman. The chef used Marsala wine, a local specialty, to create a sauce that would complement the delicate flavor of the chicken.
Ingredients for Chicken Marsala
To make Chicken Marsala, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup Marsala wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Marsala
1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Brown the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
3. Deglaze the Pan: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the Marsala wine to the skillet and bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
4. Add the Broth and Mushrooms: Add the chicken broth and chopped mushrooms to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Return the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts back to the skillet and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If desired, you can thicken the sauce by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the sauce and cook until thickened.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the Chicken Marsala with chopped fresh parsley and serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Variations on Chicken Marsala
There are many variations on the classic Chicken Marsala recipe. Some popular variations include:
- Chicken Marsala with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.
- Chicken Marsala with Spinach: Add 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach to the sauce.
- Chicken Marsala with Mushrooms and Bacon: Add 1/2 cup of chopped bacon and 1 cup of chopped mushrooms to the sauce.
- Chicken Marsala with Cream: Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer flavor.
Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Marsala
- Use high-quality ingredients. The better the ingredients, the better the dish will taste.
- Don’t overcook the chicken. Chicken breasts are delicate and can easily become dry if overcooked.
- Deglaze the pan thoroughly. This will help to create a flavorful sauce.
- Simmer the sauce for at least 10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to develop.
- Serve the Chicken Marsala immediately. This dish is best enjoyed fresh.
Pairing Chicken Marsala with Wine
Chicken Marsala is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of wines. Some popular pairings include:
- Pinot Noir
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Merlot
- Zinfandel
- Marsala wine
Common Questions and Answers
Q: What is Marsala wine?
A: Marsala is a fortified wine that is produced in the western Sicilian town of Marsala. It has a sweet, nutty flavor and is often used in cooking.
Q: Can I use another type of wine instead of Marsala?
A: Yes, you can use another type of wine, such as Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon, but the flavor of the dish will be different.
Q: Can I make Chicken Marsala ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make Chicken Marsala ahead of time and reheat it before serving. However, the sauce may thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a little bit of water or chicken broth when reheating.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with Chicken Marsala?
A: Some good side dishes to serve with Chicken Marsala include pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Q: Can I make Chicken Marsala in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make Chicken Marsala in a slow cooker. Brown the chicken in a skillet, then transfer it to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
