creamy marsala chicken
This Marsala Chicken Orzo recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts simmered in a creamy Marsala wine sauce with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and thyme, all served atop al dente orzo pasta. A deliciously rich and comforting one-pan meal perfect for an elegant dinner or weeknight treat.
- Author: Grace
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Salt
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Orzo and Sauce
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup Marsala wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the exterior is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and tender.
- Add Garlic and Thyme: Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Deglaze with Marsala Wine: Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to lift any browned bits. Let the wine simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
- Cook the Orzo: Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the orzo pasta, cooking for 8 to 10 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Finish the Sauce: Lower the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet to warm through, and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Use a dry Marsala wine for the best flavor balance.
- If preferred, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier option.
- Ensure to stir the orzo occasionally to prevent sticking.
- This dish pairs well with a side of steamed green vegetables or a fresh salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: Marsala chicken, orzo pasta, creamy chicken recipe, Italian chicken dish, mushroom Marsala sauce