Chicken Marsala Pasta in Creamy Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this Chicken Marsala Pasta because it’s a delightful combination of savory, creamy, and slightly sweet flavors. The Marsala wine adds depth to the sauce, while the mushrooms provide an earthy richness that pairs perfectly with the creamy texture. The tender chicken and pasta bring everything together into a satisfying dish that’s comforting yet sophisticated enough for a dinner party. It’s quick, easy, and feels like a special meal without the hassle.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless chicken breasts, sliced

• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)

• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

• 1/2 cup Marsala wine

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and slice it.

3. In the same skillet, sauté the mushrooms and garlic for 4–5 minutes until they are tender and fragrant.

4. Deglaze the skillet with Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the wine simmer for 2–3 minutes.

5. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.

6. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.

8. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

This Chicken Marsala Pasta is highly adaptable! You can swap out the chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a juicier, richer flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or even substitute the cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option. You can also add other vegetables like spinach or peas to the sauce for extra color and texture. For more flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the Marsala wine to enhance the sauce’s richness.

Storage/Reheating

This dish makes fantastic leftovers! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also microwave individual servings, though the stovetop method will help maintain the creamy texture of the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of wine?

While Marsala wine is traditional for this dish, you can substitute it with other wines, such as dry sherry, white wine, or even red wine if that’s what you have on hand. Each wine will bring its own unique flavor to the sauce, so feel free to experiment!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can make this dish ahead of time, but it’s best served fresh to keep the texture of the pasta and chicken just right. If you do make it in advance, store the sauce and pasta separately, and reheat them gently before serving.

Can I make this recipe without the cream?

Yes! If you want a lighter version, you can omit the cream and replace it with chicken broth and a little butter to create a lighter, more brothy sauce. You could also try using a non-dairy cream substitute, such as cashew cream or coconut milk.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, you can stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic. This will give the sauce a subtle kick that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors.

Can I use a different pasta for this recipe?

Definitely! While fettuccine and penne are both great options, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, rigatoni, or even a whole-wheat version for a healthier take on the dish.

Conclusion

This Chicken Marsala Pasta in Creamy Sauce is the ultimate comfort meal, combining tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, velvety sauce all in one skillet. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent yet is easy to make, making it perfect for both a cozy weeknight dinner and a special occasion. The balance of flavors and textures will leave you satisfied and coming back for more. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how delicious it tastes every time you make it!