Creamy Marsala Chicken with Savory Orzo Pasta Recipe

Marsala Chicken Orzo is the ultimate comfort food that effortlessly combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and tender orzo pasta all bathed in a rich, flavorful sauce. What really makes this dish shine is when you Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is creamy and smooth, creating a luscious texture that coats every bite. This one-pan wonder is quick to prepare and impressively delicious, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or special gatherings with loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential, each playing a vital role in building the dish’s deep flavors, comforting textures, and inviting aromas. From the succulent chicken to the fragrant herbs, everything comes together like a delicious symphony.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provides tender, juicy protein that soaks up all the savory flavors.
• 1 cup orzo pasta: Tiny pasta that cooks quickly and adds a delightful bite.
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Adds earthiness and a meaty texture to compliment the chicken.
• 1/2 cup Marsala wine: Brings a slightly sweet and robust depth to the sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Essential to cook the orzo and build the sauce base.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess for that perfect silky finish.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For a lightly fruity sear on the chicken and sautéing.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds a luscious richness to the mushrooms.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Imparts a warm, aromatic punch that elevates the whole dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses a subtle earthy, herbal note.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh brightness.

How to Make creamy marsala chicken

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and cook them for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until they develop a beautiful golden crust and are fully cooked inside. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep warm. This step seals in all the juiciness you’ll want later.

Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms and Aromatics

In the same skillet, melt the butter to add that irresistible richness. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until they brown nicely, releasing their earthy essence. Then add the minced garlic and dried thyme, stirring for about a minute until your kitchen fills with a fragrant, inviting aroma.

Step 3: Deglaze with Marsala Wine

Pour in the Marsala wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let the wine simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This step enhances the sauce with a subtly sweet and deep flavor that perfectly complements the chicken and mushrooms.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo in Chicken Broth

Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the orzo pasta, making sure it’s submerged in the flavorful liquid. Cook it uncovered for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is perfectly tender but still has a slight bite—al dente.

Step 5: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is creamy and smooth

Here’s where the magic happens—reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is creamy and smooth. The sauce transforms into this rich, velvety coating that envelops the orzo and mushrooms. Then, nestle the chicken breasts back into the skillet to warm through, letting all the flavors mingle beautifully. Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

How to Serve creamy marsala chicken

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley sprinkled on top adds a lovely burst of green and a hint of freshness that balances the creamy richness perfectly. A little extra cracked black pepper or a light dusting of Parmesan cheese also elevates the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish stands splendidly on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Roasted asparagus or garlic sautéed spinach are excellent easy sides that bring color and nutrition to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming dinner party, serve the Marsala Chicken Orzo in shallow bowls, allowing the sauce to pool gracefully around the chicken. You might also garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for an elegant touch that impresses visually and delights the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making next-day leftovers taste even better. Just be sure to keep the chicken and sauce together to maintain the creamy consistency.

Freezing

While you can freeze Marsala Chicken Orzo, the texture of the orzo might soften after thawing. To freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm the leftovers over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave at medium power. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream and stir until you reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is creamy and smooth once again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! While orzo is perfect here because it cooks quickly and soaks in the sauce nicely, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or even couscous can work well too.

Is Marsala wine necessary, or can I substitute it?

Marsala wine adds a unique sweet and nutty flavor, but if you don’t have it on hand, dry sherry or a sweet white wine can be decent substitutes to mimic the depth.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken breasts are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear and there’s no pink inside when cut.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this dairy-free, substitute the butter with plant-based margarine and the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

What if I want a thicker sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, after reducing the heat to low and stirring in the heavy cream until the sauce is creamy and smooth, allow it to simmer just a bit longer. Alternatively, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it in to help thicken.

Final Thoughts

This Marsala Chicken Orzo recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can create something incredibly special. Trust me when I say that once you Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is creamy and smooth, you’ll find yourself coming back to this dish time and time again. It’s the sort of comforting, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Give it a try and enjoy every rich, savory bite!

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