Chicken Marsala Pasta is a delightful twist on the classic Chicken Marsala dish, combining the savory flavors of tender chicken, rich mushrooms, and creamy sauce, all over a bed of pasta. This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough to serve to guests. With a balance of comforting ingredients and a burst of Italian seasoning, this pasta dish brings together the creamy goodness of a rich Marsala wine sauce with a hint of garlic and parmesan.
In this article, we will break down every step of making this dish—from preparing the ingredients to serving up a flavorful, creamy meal. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this Chicken Marsala Pasta recipe will guide you to a satisfying and delicious meal.
Ingredients for Chicken Marsala Pasta
Before starting the recipe, gather all the ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious Chicken Marsala Pasta:
Ingredients List:
- 12 oz penne pasta – The penne pasta is hearty and absorbs the sauce well, making it the perfect base for this dish.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces – Chicken breast is lean and tender, and when cooked just right, it adds great texture to the pasta.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For cooking the chicken and sautéing the mushrooms, olive oil provides a healthy base.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter – Butter adds richness and flavor to the dish, helping to create the creamy sauce.
- 2 cups cremini mushrooms, sliced – Mushrooms bring an earthy, savory taste that pairs wonderfully with the chicken and cream sauce.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – Garlic enhances the flavor profile of the dish, adding depth and fragrance.
- 1 cup chicken broth – Chicken broth provides the necessary base for the sauce, contributing to its rich flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream – The heavy cream is essential for creating a velvety sauce that coats the pasta and chicken.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – A touch of garlic powder helps intensify the garlic flavor in the dish.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – Italian seasoning brings a blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, which complement the other flavors.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated – Parmesan adds a nutty, salty flavor that makes the sauce even more delicious.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – These simple seasonings elevate the taste of the entire dish.
- Fresh parsley (optional), for garnish – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness to the dish.
Directions and Preparation
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the cooking process step by step. Follow these instructions to create a flavorful and creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta.
1. Cook the Penne Pasta:
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Typically, this will take around 10 minutes, but refer to the package for precise cooking times. Make sure to add enough salt to the water for flavor. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it well and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and the butter has melted, add the bite-sized pieces of chicken breast to the skillet. Season the chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, add the sliced cremini mushrooms and cook them for about 5 minutes until they’re tender and have released their juices. Stir the mushrooms occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. Once tender, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet with the mushrooms and garlic. Stir to combine, and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
Once the broth has reduced, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring the sauce to ensure the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Combine the Pasta and Chicken:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it with the mushroom cream sauce. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, stirring gently to combine everything thoroughly. Let the pasta cook in the sauce for an additional 2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors and become heated through.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once everything is well combined, serve the Chicken Marsala Pasta immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired to add a touch of freshness and color. Enjoy the rich, creamy dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
FAQs About Chicken Marsala Pasta
1. Can I substitute the chicken breast with another type of meat?
Yes! You can use chicken thighs if you prefer a more flavorful, juicy cut of meat. Alternatively, turkey breast or even pork can work as a substitute, although the flavor profile may change slightly.
2. Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free option such as coconut cream or almond milk. For the cheese, you can use a dairy-free cheese substitute or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
3. Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is a great choice, you can use other pasta shapes such as rigatoni, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions and drain it well before adding it to the sauce.
4. How can I store the leftovers?
Store any leftover Chicken Marsala Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it or heat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
5. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance, and cook the pasta fresh just before serving. Alternatively, you can assemble the entire dish and store it in the refrigerator to reheat later, though the pasta may absorb some of the sauce.
Conclusion
Chicken Marsala Pasta is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy mushrooms, and a rich, savory sauce, all over your favorite pasta. The combination of ingredients, such as the earthy mushrooms, garlic, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, creates a harmonious flavor profile that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
This recipe is easy enough for a weeknight meal but indulgent enough to serve at a dinner party. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll create a dish that’s both creamy and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a cozy dinner for yourself, Chicken Marsala Pasta is sure to satisfy your cravings for something rich and flavorful.
Try making this dish at home today, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones. It’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection!