Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta – A Rich & Flavorful One-Pan Dinner

Introduction

If you love rich, creamy pasta dishes, then this Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta is about to become your new favorite. This dish brings together tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a luscious Marsala wine sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that you can easily make at home in just 30 minutes!

In this guide, we’ll cover everything from step-by-step cooking instructions to pro tips, ingredient substitutions, FAQs, and more. Whether you’re a pasta enthusiast or just looking for a cozy, comforting dinner idea, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Rich & Creamy – A silky smooth sauce infused with the flavors of Marsala wine and Dijon mustard.
• Restaurant-Style Flavor – A dish that tastes like something you’d order at a fine Italian restaurant.
• Customizable – Swap the pasta, tweak the sauce, or add extra veggies to suit your taste.
• One-Pan Convenience – Cook the sauce and chicken in the same pan to reduce cleanup.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Essential Ingredients:

• 8 ounces fettuccine (or preferred pasta) – A long pasta like fettuccine or linguine works best to hold the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds richness and prevents sticking.
• 2 tablespoons butter, divided – Enhances flavor and adds creaminess.
• 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces – The protein base of the dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory depth of the chicken.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• Flour, for dredging – Helps create a golden crust on the chicken.
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced – Adds an earthy flavor and texture.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth – Provides depth to the sauce.
• 1/2 cup non-alcoholic Marsala cooking wine – Gives the dish its signature taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Enhances the richness of the sauce.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – Creates a luscious, creamy consistency.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving) – Adds a nutty, salty finish.

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Gluten-Free Pasta – Swap for a gluten-free option if needed.
• Chicken Thighs – Use instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
• Vegetable Broth – Can be used instead of chicken broth for a lighter version.
• Greek Yogurt or Half-and-Half – A lighter alternative to heavy cream.
• Shallots Instead of Garlic Powder – For a more refined flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

• Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Lightly dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
• Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked.
• Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms

• In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
• Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes until they release moisture and become tender.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

• Pour in the chicken broth and Marsala cooking wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
• Stir in the Dijon mustard and let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Cream

• Lower the heat to medium.
• Stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce thicken for 3-5 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Everything

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce.
• Add the cooked pasta, tossing to combine.
• Cook for 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

• Plate the pasta and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
• Serve hot and enjoy this deliciously creamy dish!

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Marsala Pasta

• Use High-Quality Marsala Wine – The better the wine, the richer the flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken – It should be golden brown but still tender.
• Let the Sauce Reduce Properly – This ensures a thick, creamy consistency.
• Balance the Flavors – A pinch of extra salt or a dash of lemon juice can enhance the dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular Marsala wine instead of non-alcoholic?

Yes! Traditional Marsala wine will add even more depth of flavor, but if you prefer a non-alcoholic version, the cooking wine works great.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

3. Can I freeze Chicken Marsala Pasta?

Yes! Let it cool completely before storing in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

4. What other pasta can I use?

You can swap fettuccine for penne, rotini, or linguine.

5. How do I make it healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream and whole wheat pasta for a lighter version.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta is the perfect combination of savory, creamy, and comforting flavors. With its tender chicken, silky sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving something hearty, this recipe is a must-try.

Now it’s your turn—grab your ingredients and give this dish a try! Let us know how you like it. Happy cooking!

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