Elevate Your Weeknight Dinner: Delicious Chicken Marsala Recipe

Are you in search of a quick and easy yet elegant dish to elevate your weeknight dinner routine? Look no further than this mouthwatering Weeknight Chicken Marsala recipe! Bursting with flavor and made with simple ingredients, this dish is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. With tender chicken breasts bathed in a rich Marsala wine sauce and accented with earthy mushrooms and aromatic shallots, each bite is a culinary delight. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this Chicken Marsala recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 cups Marsala wine
• 3/4 cup chicken stock
• 1 packet unflavored gelatin
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more if needed
• 10 oz cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 3 medium shallots, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
• Fresh lemon juice, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin Mixture

1. In a small bowl, combine the Marsala wine and chicken stock. Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the mixture and let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.

Step 2: Dredge the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Dredge the chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Working in batches if necessary, add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Saute the Mushrooms and Aromatics

1. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the minced shallots, garlic, and fresh thyme to the skillet. Cook until the shallots are translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
2. Pour the Marsala wine and chicken stock mixture over the chicken and mushrooms.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Stir in the cubed butter until melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh lemon juice to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the Chicken Marsala to a serving platter or individual plates.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken breasts with portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version of this dish. Simply follow the same instructions, omitting the chicken and adjusting the cooking time as needed.
• Creamy Variation: For a creamy Chicken Marsala sauce, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream after adding the chicken stock mixture. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly before serving.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken to make this recipe gluten-free-friendly.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here are some modifications you can make to enjoy this Chicken Marsala:

• Almond Flour Dredge: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a low-carb alternative.
• Reduce Marsala Wine: Cut back on the Marsala wine to reduce the carb content of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may require slightly longer to cook through.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce gently on the stove before serving, then add the cooked chicken to warm through.

Q: What can I serve with Chicken Marsala? A: Chicken Marsala pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables. Choose your favorite accompaniments to complete the meal.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover Chicken Marsala for up to 3 months. Transfer the cooled chicken and sauce to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, then thaw and reheat before serving.

In conclusion, this Weeknight Chicken Marsala recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. With its rich and flavorful sauce, tender chicken, and hearty mushrooms, it’s a meal that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this Chicken Marsala is sure to impress with its elegant presentation and irresistible taste. So, why wait? Add this recipe to your culinary repertoire and enjoy a taste of culinary excellence any night of the week!