Description

Welcome to a culinary adventure that blends comfort and elegance in every bite! Chicken Marsala Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic Italian-American favorite, Chicken Marsala. This dish transports you to Italy, where the rich flavors of sautéed chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious Marsala wine sauce come together in a heartwarming casserole. It’s the perfect solution for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or cozy nights in. The beauty of this casserole lies not just in its taste, but also in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a stunning meal that will impress your family and friends.

Imagine sitting down to a warm, bubbling dish filled with tender chicken and mushrooms, all enveloped in a creamy sauce that’s infused with the depth of Marsala wine. The dish is not only comforting but also versatile, allowing for various adaptations based on your pantry or dietary needs. Perhaps you have a busy schedule and need a make-ahead meal? This casserole can be prepared in advance and kept in the fridge or freezer, making meal prep a breeze.

What truly makes Chicken Marsala Casserole special is the joy of sharing it at the dinner table. It’s a dish that encourages conversation and laughter, making it a staple in homes across the globe. So, let’s embark on this delicious journey together and discover how to make your very own Chicken Marsala Casserole.

Ingredients

• For the Chicken and Sauce:
• Two pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• One cup all-purpose flour for dredging
• Three tablespoons olive oil
• One medium onion, finely chopped
• Three cloves garlic, minced
• Eight ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• One cup Marsala wine
• One cup chicken broth
• One cup heavy cream
• One tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or one teaspoon dried thyme
• One tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• For the Casserole:
• Two cups cooked rice or egg noodles
• One cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• One cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation Method

Start by preparing the chicken. Slice the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into thin cutlets for even cooking. Season both sides of each cutlet with salt and black pepper. Dredging the chicken in flour will give it a nice crust and help thicken the sauce later on. Place the flour in a shallow dish and coat each chicken piece lightly, shaking off any excess.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook each side for about three to four minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about five minutes until softened. The aroma of the onions will create a wonderful base for your sauce. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet, cooking for an additional five to seven minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender.

Now, it’s time to build the sauce. Pour in the Marsala wine and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. This will add depth to your sauce. Allow the wine to simmer for a few minutes, reducing it by about half. This concentrated flavor will elevate your casserole.

Next, add the chicken broth, heavy cream, fresh thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir gently to combine and let the sauce simmer for another five minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly, creating a rich and creamy texture that will envelop the chicken and other ingredients later.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice or egg noodles with the sautéed chicken and mushroom sauce. Mix well to ensure that every piece of chicken and rice is coated in that delicious, creamy Marsala sauce.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a 9x13-inch casserole dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter. Pour the chicken and sauce mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly.

Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top of the casserole. These cheeses will melt beautifully in the oven, creating a golden, bubbly crust that’s simply irresistible.

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together while keeping the dish moist. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with a lovely golden color.

Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about five to ten minutes before serving. This resting time will help the casserole set slightly, making it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, adding a pop of color and freshness.

Tips and Conclusion

For a delightful variation, consider adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers to your casserole. You can sauté them along with the onions and mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. If you’re looking for a healthier option, substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream, which will still provide a creamy texture without the extra calories.

If you’re pressed for time, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.




Preparing Chicken Marsala Casserole is more than just cooking; it's an experience filled with warmth, flavor, and the joy of sharing. As you savor each bite, you’ll appreciate the harmonious blend of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce, all brought together in a comforting casserole. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

If you enjoyed this recipe, why not explore other comforting dishes on our site? We have a variety of recipes that fit perfectly into family meals and gatherings. From creamy pasta bakes to hearty stews, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to share this Chicken Marsala Casserole with friends and family, inviting them to join you on this delicious journey. Happy cooking!