Chicken Marsala Casserole Recipe

Craving a rich and flavorful dinner that’s sure to impress? This Chicken Marsala Casserole takes the beloved Italian-American classic, Chicken Marsala, and transforms it into a mouth-watering casserole that’s perfect for any night of the week. Creamy, savory, and loaded with tender chicken, mushrooms, and a delectable Marsala wine sauce, this dish is as easy to make as it is delicious. Stick with me through this article, and you'll have the perfect Chicken Marsala Casserole recipe ready to go, with plenty of tips and tricks along the way. Read on to discover everything you need to know about making this comfort-food favorite.

What is Chicken Marsala Casserole?

Chicken Marsala is traditionally a dish made by pan-frying chicken cutlets and serving them with a sauce made from Marsala wine and mushrooms. By converting this into a casserole, we’re keeping the essence of the classic dish but making it more convenient and easier to serve to a crowd. The casserole format allows for the flavors to meld together even more beautifully, and it’s great for making ahead of time.

Ingredients List for Chicken Marsala Casserole

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients for this hearty dish:

• 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces.
• 1 pound of mushrooms (button or cremini): Sliced thinly.
• 1 medium onion: Diced.
• 4 cloves of garlic: Minced.
• 1 cup Marsala wine: This is the key to that rich, sweet flavor!
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and enhances the savory depth.
• 1 cup heavy cream: For the creamy base.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and veggies.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A great herb for depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: For that earthy taste.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty goodness for the topping.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For extra cheesy flavor.
• 2 cups cooked pasta or rice: Use your preference for the base.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best parts about this Chicken Marsala Casserole is its versatility. Whether you’re looking to cater to specific dietary needs or simply change things up based on what’s in your pantry, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try.

• Gluten-free: If you’re gluten-intolerant, swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta, or skip the pasta entirely and use a base of cooked rice instead.
• Lower-carb option: For those following a low-carb or keto diet, you can omit the pasta or rice and substitute it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Dairy-free: If you need to avoid dairy, you can replace the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative, like coconut cream or almond milk, and use dairy-free cheese options for the topping.
• Vegetarian option: To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the chicken with tofu, seitan, or extra mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Follow these step-by-step instructions to make the best Chicken Marsala Casserole you've ever tasted.

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large casserole dish with nonstick spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season them with salt and pepper, and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
3. Cook the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the mushrooms, onions, and garlic until they are soft and the mushrooms release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Make the sauce: Add the Marsala wine to the skillet, stirring to deglaze the pan (scrape up the brown bits). Let the wine cook down for 2-3 minutes until it’s slightly reduced. Then, stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, oregano, and a bit more salt and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Assemble the casserole: In your greased casserole dish, spread your cooked pasta or rice as the base layer. Add the sautéed chicken on top, then pour the creamy mushroom Marsala sauce over everything. Give it a gentle stir to distribute the ingredients evenly.
6. Add the cheese topping: Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

How to Cook Chicken Marsala Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s recap the essential steps to make this Chicken Marsala Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven and prep the casserole dish.
2. Cook the chicken and set it aside.
3. Sauté the mushrooms, onions, and garlic until softened.
4. Make the Marsala wine sauce with broth and cream.
5. Layer everything in the casserole dish with pasta or rice, chicken, and sauce.
6. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
7. Bake until golden and bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a straightforward recipe like this one, it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Not reducing the Marsala wine enough: If the wine doesn’t cook down, your sauce will be too watery. Make sure to let it simmer and reduce by at least half for a richer sauce.
• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken breast can dry out quickly if overcooked. Be sure to cook it just until it’s no longer pink in the center, then remove it from the heat.
• Using too much cheese: While it might be tempting to pile on the cheese, too much can overwhelm the delicate flavors of the Marsala sauce.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving Chicken Marsala Casserole, presentation matters just as much as flavor. Here are a few tips to make your dish look as good as it tastes.

• Serve in individual ramekins: If you’re making this dish for a special occasion, consider portioning it out into individual ramekins for an elegant touch.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme will brighten up the dish and add a fresh pop of color.
• Add a side salad: A crisp, green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the casserole perfectly.

How to Serve Chicken Marsala Casserole

This casserole is hearty and filling enough to serve as a main course, but you can also pair it with a few sides to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

• With garlic bread: A warm, crusty garlic bread makes the perfect accompaniment to soak up all that delicious sauce.
• Alongside steamed vegetables: Serve with lightly steamed green beans or broccoli for added freshness.
• With a glass of wine: Since this dish features Marsala wine, it’s fitting to serve it with a glass of the same wine for a cohesive dining experience.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Marsala Casserole

If you're hosting a dinner party, consider these creative ideas for presenting your Chicken Marsala Casserole:

• Layer it in a cast-iron skillet: A cast-iron skillet makes for a rustic and homey presentation. Serve it directly from the pan at the table.
• Garnish with edible flowers: For a special touch, edible flowers like pansies or violets can add color and elegance to your dish.
• Serve family-style: Place the casserole dish in the center of the table with serving spoons, and let everyone help themselves for a warm, communal dining experience.

Chicken Marsala Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead of time: This casserole can be made up to a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time if needed.
• Freezing tips: Chicken Marsala Casserole freezes well. Once it’s completely cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake until heated through.
• Leftover revamp: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven to maintain the texture of the chicken and the cheese topping. Microwaving can make the dish soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use white wine instead of Marsala wine?
While Marsala wine gives this dish its signature flavor, you can substitute it with dry white wine if you’re in a pinch. However, the taste will be slightly different and not as sweet.

2. Can I make this dish without cream?
Yes! If you prefer a lighter version, you can omit the cream or use a lighter alternative like half-and-half. You can also thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry.

3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving when cooking, so they’re a great alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

Chicken Marsala Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines all the rich elements of the classic Chicken Marsala in an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing casserole. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or preparing a simple weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy topping, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your home. Give it a try, experiment with the variations, and enjoy the wonderful flavors of this beloved dish!

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