A comforting twist on the classic Chicken Marsala, this casserole features tender chicken, mushrooms, and a rich Marsala wine sauce baked with pasta and cheese for a satisfying, creamy meal.
Chicken Marsala Casserole is a comforting and flavorful twist on the classic Italian-American dish, Chicken Marsala. Combining tender chicken, mushrooms, and a creamy Marsala wine sauce with pasta or rice, this casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Chicken Marsala Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 Ib boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced)
- 8 oz mushrooms sliced
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup Marsala wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown (about 5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Make the Marsala Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic and mushrooms until softened (about 4–5 minutes). Pour in Marsala wine and cook for 3–4 minutes until reduced by half. Add chicken broth and heavy cream, simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Combine and Bake: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce. Transfer to a greased casserole dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Why You Will Love Chicken Marsala Casserole
Chicken Marsala Casserole combines the rich, savory flavors of classic Chicken Marsala with the comfort of a baked casserole, making it an irresistible meal for any occasion.
This dish features tender chicken breast pieces, sautéed mushrooms, and a creamy Marsala wine sauce, all layered over pasta or rice and topped with a generous helping of melted cheese. The Marsala wine adds a deep, slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements the earthy mushrooms and rich sauce.
What makes this casserole stand out is its convenience and simplicity. It’s a one-pan meal that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. You can prepare it ahead of time and bake it when ready, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
The creamy sauce ensures that every bite is moist and flavorful, while the melted cheese creates a golden, bubbly topping that adds a satisfying texture.
This Chicken Marsala Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables like spinach or asparagus and swap out the pasta for low-carb options like cauliflower rice.
Chicken Marsala Casserole Tips and Serving Tricks
Below are expert tips and serving tricks to help you create a delicious and well-balanced Chicken Marsala Casserole every time.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Marsala Casserole
1. Use High-Quality Marsala Wine
- Opt for dry Marsala wine rather than sweet for a more balanced, savory flavor.
- If you can’t find Marsala wine, a mix of dry sherry and a touch of balsamic vinegar can mimic its taste.
2. Brown the Chicken First
- Sauté the chicken in olive oil and butter until golden brown. This enhances the flavor and creates a rich base for the sauce.
- You can use chicken breasts, thighs, or even rotisserie chicken for convenience.
3. Enhance the Mushroom Flavor
- Use a mix of cremini and white mushrooms for a deeper, earthy taste.
- Sauté the mushrooms in butter and garlic until they release their moisture and develop a golden color.
4. Thicken the Sauce Properly
- After adding Marsala wine and chicken broth, let it simmer until reduced by half.
- Add heavy cream or a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water) to thicken the sauce.
5. Choose the Right Pasta or Base
- Short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni works best for holding the sauce.
- For a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
6. Add Cheese for Creaminess
- Mix in a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a creamy, savory finish.
- Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Serving Tricks for Chicken Marsala Casserole
1. Garnish for a Professional Touch
- Top with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds an extra layer of flavor.
2. Pairing Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted asparagus.
- Wine: Pair with a dry white wine like Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir.
3. Serving Size and Portioning
- This casserole serves about 6–8 people depending on the portion size.
- For meal prep, divide into individual containers for easy reheating.
4. Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes or until heated through.
5. Add a Crunchy Topping (Optional)
- Top with seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers before baking for a crispy, golden crust.
Key Nutritional Factors:
- High in protein due to the chicken and cheese.
- Moderate in carbohydrates from pasta or rice (if included).
- Higher in saturated fat due to the cheese and cream.
- Can reduce sodium and fat by using low-sodium broth and less cheese or cream.
Final Tip:
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to settle and the sauce to thicken. This will also make it easier to slice and serve.
With these tips and tricks, your Chicken Marsala Casserole will be a creamy, savory, and crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love!
