Marsala wine sauce elevates simple chicken to a restaurant-worthy dish. Its rich, slightly sweet, and nutty flavor profile complements the delicate taste of chicken beautifully. This recipe provides a classic approach, but feel free to experiment with herbs and spices to create your own signature version. This guide will walk you through creating a perfect Marsala sauce, answering common questions along the way.
What is Marsala Wine and Why is it Used in Cooking?
Marsala wine is a fortified wine from Sicily, Italy. Fortified means that a neutral grape spirit is added, increasing its alcohol content and contributing to its long shelf life. This higher alcohol content also allows the sauce to reduce beautifully, concentrating the flavor. Its unique sweetness and nutty notes make it an ideal ingredient for savory sauces, particularly those paired with chicken, veal, and mushrooms.
How to Make a Classic Marsala Chicken Sauce
This recipe yields enough sauce for 4-6 servings.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry Marsala wine (preferably a dry variety like Superiore or Vergine)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Season and Dredge: Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear until golden brown on all sides. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, add the seared chicken back to the skillet, and cover. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in heavy cream and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
What Kind of Marsala Wine is Best for Cooking?
Dry Marsala wines, specifically Superiore or Vergine, are best for cooking. Sweet Marsala wines can be used, but they'll result in a sweeter sauce. The quality of the Marsala wine will impact the flavor of your sauce, so choose a decent bottle.
Can I Make Marsala Sauce Without Wine?
While Marsala wine is key to the authentic flavor of the sauce, you can substitute it with chicken broth or a combination of chicken broth and sherry. However, the flavor will be significantly different. The alcohol in the Marsala cooks off, leaving behind its complex flavor notes.
How Do I Thicken Marsala Sauce?
If your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can make a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water) and whisk it into the sauce during the final simmering stage.
What Can I Serve with Marsala Chicken?
Marsala chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it with:
- Pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti)
- Rice (risotto or plain cooked rice)
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
Tips for the Perfect Marsala Chicken
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the chicken in batches to ensure even browning.
- Use good quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the sauce will taste.
- Taste and adjust: Season the sauce to your liking. Add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of sugar if needed.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Add other herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or mushrooms, to create your own unique version.
By following this recipe and incorporating these tips, you'll be able to create a delicious and impressive Marsala chicken dish that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
