Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta

Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with a rich, creamy sauce and pasta. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The unique blend of flavors from the mushrooms and Marsala apple vinegar creates a satisfying meal that will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be made in about 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken, mushrooms, and creamy sauce offers a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this pasta dish caters to various palates.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required as everything cooks in one pan, saving you time.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Frying pan
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta evenly and efficiently without overcrowding.
• Frying pan: Perfect for searing chicken and sautéing vegetables to develop rich flavors.
• Wooden spoon: Great for scraping up browned bits from the pan, enhancing the overall taste of your sauce.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 8 oz pasta (weighed uncooked; I used Penne)

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs chicken breast
• 3 tablespoons flour (divided)
• .75 tsp kosher salt (divided)
• fresh cracked pepper

For the Sauce

• 1 shallot
• 8 oz mushrooms (sliced)
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 cup Marsala apple vinegar
• 1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup skim milk (can sub: almond milk or cashew milk)
• 2 tbsp reduced fat cream cheese

Optional Garnish

• fresh parsley

How to Make Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Weigh out 8 oz of pasta (uncooked). This is half of a pound or half of a box.
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil; add salt and then cook pasta according to package directions.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cube the raw chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
2. Place 2 tablespoons of flour in a small bowl and add 1/4 tsp kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper.
3. Toss the cubed chicken pieces in the flour mixture to coat.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. Place a large frying pan over medium-high heat to preheat.
2. Add a generous spray of olive oil spray.
3. Working in two batches, add half the chicken to the pan and sear on all sides for five minutes total without overcrowding.
4. Once golden brown, remove from the pan and set aside in a bowl; repeat with remaining chicken.

Step 4: Cook Vegetables

1. Thinly slice the shallot and mince the garlic.
2. After all of the chicken is cooked, add more olive oil spray to the pan.
3. Add mushrooms and shallots along with remaining 1/2 tsp kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper.
4. Cook for 5 minutes until softened; add minced garlic for another minute.

Step 5: Create Sauce

1. Add apple vinegar and chicken stock to the pan; scrape up any browned bits using a wooden spoon.
2. Allow this mixture to come to a boil before adding partially-cooked chicken back into the pan. Cook for an additional 10 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. In a measuring cup, combine milk with remaining tablespoon of flour; whisk together until smooth.
2. Pour this milk mixture into the pan with sauce and chicken.
3. Stir in cream cheese until fully incorporated into sauce; toss cooked pasta into the mixture.

Step 7: Final Touches

1. Cook everything together for another 1-2 minutes until pasta absorbs some creamy sauce; taste for seasoning adjustments.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Enjoy your Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta

Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add torn basil leaves for an aromatic touch that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Toasted Garlic Bread: Serve slices of toasted garlic bread on the side for mopping up the delicious sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Knots: These soft and cheesy knots make a great addition, adding both flavor and texture.

Paired with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crunchy romaine, croutons, and dressing complements the richness of the pasta.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.

Topped with Grated Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the dish just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
• Pecorino Romano: This sharp cheese adds a unique taste that enhances the overall profile of the meal.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta

To ensure your Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken and vegetables for better flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Searing chicken in batches ensures even cooking and a nice golden crust.
• Adjust Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Seasoning throughout cooking helps achieve a balanced flavor profile.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the pasta to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets in olive oil, garlic, and roast until tender for a healthy side.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice adds brightness to your plate.
3. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and vinaigrette provides freshness.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes for a delightful appetizer.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil and spices offer sweetness that balances the dish.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs and spices serves as a nutritious alternative to traditional sides.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta, there are common pitfalls to steer clear of for the best results.

• Overcooking the Pasta – Cooking pasta for too long can make it mushy. Always follow the package directions and taste test it a minute before the timer goes off.
• Skipping the Searing Step – Not searing the chicken will prevent it from developing a rich flavor. Make sure to brown the chicken well for an enhanced taste.
• Ignoring Seasoning – Failing to season your dish properly can lead to bland flavors. Use salt and fresh cracked pepper throughout the cooking process to elevate your dish.
• Not Deglazing the Pan – Leaving browned bits in the pan can mean missing out on key flavors. Always scrape the bottom of the pan when adding liquids to incorporate those flavors into your sauce.
• Using Cold Dairy Products – Adding cold milk or cream cheese can cause them to curdle. Ensure they are at room temperature before adding them to your hot sauce.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and consume within 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through. This usually takes 2-3 minutes depending on your microwave’s power.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta?

Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta is a delightful pasta dish featuring chicken in a creamy sauce made with mushrooms and flavored with apple vinegar instead of traditional wine.

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Absolutely! While Penne works great, you can substitute with fettuccine, spaghetti, or any pasta shape you prefer.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Consider using whole grain pasta and reducing the amount of cream cheese or substituting with lighter alternatives like Greek yogurt for creaminess without excess calories.

Can I customize this recipe?

Certainly! Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. You can also adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta is not only rich and delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting flavors to suit your palate. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its comforting goodness!