chicken marsala pasta recipe that’s creamy and comforting

Name: chicken marsala pasta recipe that's creamy and comforting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), sliced; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1/2 cup Marsala wine; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

August 16, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Welcome to my kitchen, where the magic of flavors comes to life! Today, I’m thrilled to share my beloved chicken marsala pasta recipe with you. Imagine tender chicken breasts, earthy mushrooms, and that rich, sweet depth from Marsala wine all swirling together in a creamy sauce over fettuccine pasta. It’s pure comfort food with an Italian flair! This dish not only satisfies the palate but also impresses anyone lucky enough to be served. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

chicken marsala pasta recipe - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make my delicious chicken marsala pasta. I promise, these ingredients come together to create something truly special!

8 oz fettuccine pasta
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), sliced into thin strips
1 cup mushrooms, sliced (I love using cremini or button mushrooms)
1/2 cup Marsala wine (the sweet kind is perfect for this dish)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup heavy cream (for that luscious, creamy finish)
2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin is my go-to)
2 tbsp unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for a bright garnish

Make sure to gather everything before you start cooking. It makes the process a breeze and lets you enjoy the flow of the recipe!

How to Prepare the Chicken Marsala Pasta Recipe

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering chicken marsala pasta. Each part is essential, so pay attention to timing and techniques. Don’t worry, I’ll guide you through every step!

Cooking the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The key here is to make sure your water is salty—think of it like the sea! This will enhance the flavor of the pasta. Once the water’s boiling, add in your fettuccine and cook according to the package directions until al dente. It should have a slight bite to it—perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce! After about 8-10 minutes, drain the pasta and set it aside, but don’t rinse it. Keeping the starch helps the sauce cling better.

Searing the Chicken

Next, let’s get that chicken nice and golden! Season your sliced chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, carefully add the chicken in a single layer. You want to hear that satisfying sizzle! Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully browned. This is where flavor develops, so resist the urge to move it around too much. Once it’s golden, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. You’ll want that lovely fond left in the pan for the next step!

Sautéing the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them over medium heat for about 5 minutes until they’re browned and tender. Browning mushrooms is crucial for flavor, so don’t rush this step! Stir occasionally, letting them soak up all those tasty juices from the chicken. Once they’re done, it’s time to move on to the sauce.

Creating the Marsala Sauce

Now for the magic! Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze it—this is where all that flavor is hiding! Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly. Then, add the chicken broth and return the chicken to the skillet. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes. You want the chicken to soak up that sweet wine flavor while the sauce begins to thicken. It’s going to smell incredible!

Finishing Touches with Cream

Here comes the creamy goodness! Stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce simmer for another 3 minutes until it thickens up nicely. You’re looking for a luscious consistency that coats the back of a spoon. If it feels too thick, don’t hesitate to splash in a little more chicken broth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—this is your chance to make it just perfect!

Combining Pasta and Sauce

Finally, it’s time to bring it all together! Toss the cooked fettuccine right into the sauce, making sure every strand is well coated. I like to use tongs for this—it makes the job a lot easier! Give it a gentle mix, and if the sauce seems too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This helps everything meld beautifully. And voila! Your chicken marsala pasta is ready to serve!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and savory flavors from the combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and sweet Marsala wine.
Simple to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at a gathering.
Comforting and creamy sauce that beautifully coats the fettuccine, creating a satisfying dish.
Quick cooking time—ready in about 40 minutes, so you can enjoy a gourmet meal without hours in the kitchen!
Versatile enough to adapt; you can easily swap proteins or add your favorite vegetables.
Beautiful presentation with vibrant garnishes, making it look as good as it tastes.
A wonderful way to explore Italian cuisine and experience the depth of flavors with minimal fuss.

Tips for Success

Ready to elevate your chicken marsala pasta to the next level? Here are my top tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly!

Ingredient Quality: Always use high-quality ingredients. Fresh, organic chicken and good-quality Marsala wine make a noticeable difference in flavor.
Mushroom Variety: Experiment with different types of mushrooms! Mix shiitake, portobello, or even wild mushrooms for a richer flavor profile.
Timing is Key: Keep an eye on your pasta while it cooks! Start checking a minute or two before the package says it’s done to ensure it’s perfectly al dente.
Deglazing Technique: When you deglaze the pan with Marsala wine, make sure to scrape up all those brown bits stuck to the bottom. That’s where the flavor lives!
Adjusting Creaminess: If you like your sauce extra creamy, feel free to add a splash more heavy cream. Just remember to taste as you go!
Herbs and Seasoning: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add depth to the dish. Toss in a few leaves when you add the broth for an aromatic boost!
Perfect Presentation: For a restaurant-style finish, plate your pasta in a shallow bowl, twirling the fettuccine for height, and drizzle with a bit of sauce on top. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color.
Leftovers Love: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to bring back that creamy texture.

These little pro tips will help you nail this dish and impress everyone at your table. Enjoy every bite and let your culinary creativity shine!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are so many delightful ways to put your own spin on this chicken marsala pasta recipe! Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:

Shrimp Marsala: Swap the chicken for shrimp! Just sauté the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until they’re pink and opaque. Follow the same steps for making the sauce, and you’ll have a delicious seafood twist!
Vegetarian Delight: For a meat-free version, use a mix of hearty vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus. Sauté them until tender and proceed with the Marsala sauce. You can also add a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for extra texture.
Pasta Variety: While fettuccine is a classic choice, feel free to switch it up! Try using penne, rigatoni, or even whole wheat pasta for a different texture and flavor. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them!
Herb Infusion: Add a fresh herbal note by mixing in spinach or kale right before you toss in the pasta. The heat will wilt the greens perfectly, adding color and nutrients to your dish.
Wild Mushroom Medley: Experiment with different types of mushrooms for a more complex flavor. A mix of shiitake, oyster, and porcini mushrooms can elevate the dish, and don’t forget to sauté them until they’re beautifully browned!
Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate a bit of grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese into the sauce just before tossing the pasta. This adds a rich, salty punch that complements the Marsala beautifully!
Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the mushrooms. This will give your dish a delightful zing that pairs well with the sweetness of the Marsala.

These variations not only enhance the flavors but also allow you to tailor the dish to your liking or dietary preferences. So go ahead, get creative, and make this chicken marsala pasta recipe your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Properly storing your chicken marsala pasta can keep it delicious for days. Here’s how to do it right:

Cool Down: Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the pasta soggy.
Airtight Container: Transfer your chicken marsala pasta into an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents any unwanted fridge odors from sneaking in.
Refrigerate: Store your leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you don’t think you’ll eat it all in time, consider freezing some!
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. Just remember to label it with the date!

When you’re ready to enjoy those tasty leftovers, here’s how to reheat them:

Stovetop Method: This is my favorite way to reheat! Place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until heated through, making sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel (this helps keep it moist), and reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s warmed to your liking.
Oven Method: For a baked approach, transfer the pasta to an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. You might want to add a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy!

Whichever method you choose, take your time to ensure the flavors come back to life. Enjoy your delicious chicken marsala pasta all over again!

Nutritional Information

Want to know what you’re fueling your body with? Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of my chicken marsala pasta recipe. Keep in mind that these numbers can vary depending on the exact ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea!

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 600
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 70g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 30g

These stats make it clear that this dish is not only packed with flavor but also provides a hearty balance of nutrients. Enjoy your delicious meal, knowing it’s satisfying in more ways than one!

Final Thoughts

Wow, what a journey we’ve had with this chicken marsala pasta recipe! I truly hope you’re as excited to make it as I am to share it. It’s such a delightful blend of flavors and textures that never fails to impress. I’d love to hear your thoughts once you give it a try! Did you stick to the recipe, or did you add your own twist? Maybe you found a new favorite ingredient or a cooking trick that made it even better?

Feel free to drop your experiences in the comments below! Sharing variations and tips not only brings us together as a cooking community but also inspires others to get creative in their kitchens. So go ahead, let’s celebrate our culinary adventures! Happy cooking, and may your chicken marsala pasta be a hit every time!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.