Chicken Marsala: A Full Guide

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian dish that is both delicious and easy to make. It is made with chicken breasts that are dredged in flour and then browned in butter. Marsala wine, mushrooms, and chicken broth are then added to the pan to create a rich and flavorful sauce. The dish is typically served with rice or pasta.
Caribbean people love Italian food, and it’s no wonder. We love a good spaghetti recipe and cheesy macaroni au gratin, and we enjoy a variety of cheeses. We don’t mind adding meat, vegetables, or seafood to our pasta dishes, but many of us will tell you that we need a little more spice or seasoning in most dishes.
That’s because we’re addicted to good food and our mixture of herbs and spices. Our meat must always be well seasoned, and our sauce must taste exquisite. This is likely because our cuisine is heavily influenced by African, European, and Indian spices, and we love to incorporate those flavors into our food. Some of our favorite spices include allspice, cumin, ginger, turmeric, and scotch bonnet peppers. Whether we’re making a traditional Caribbean dish or a fusion dish, we always add our unique touch of spice.
There are a few reasons why Caribbean people love Italian food.
- Both cuisines emphasize fresh, high-quality ingredients. Caribbean cuisine is known for its use of fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and spices. Italian cuisine is also known for its focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Both cuisines have a rich history of cultural fusion. Caribbean cuisine is a fusion of African, European, and Indian influences. Italian cuisine is also a fusion of different cultures, including Greek, Roman, and Arab influences.
- Both cuisines are known for their bold flavors. Caribbean cuisine is known for its use of green seasoning blend, jerk seasoning, and other flavorful spices. Italian cuisine is also known for its bold flavors, such as garlic, tomatoes, and basil.
- Both cuisines are relatively affordable. Caribbean cuisine is often made with simple, inexpensive ingredients. Italian cuisine is also relatively affordable, especially compared to other European cuisine types.
Here are some additional reasons why Caribbean people love Italian food:
- Italian food is versatile. It can be served for any occasion, from a casual meal to a formal event.
- Italian food is family-friendly. There is something for everyone to enjoy, from pasta and pizza to chicken and fish dishes.
- Italian food is relatively easy to make. Many simple Italian recipes can be made at home.
- Italian food is widely available. Italian restaurants can be found in most parts of the Caribbean.
Overall, Caribbean people love Italian food because it is delicious, affordable, versatile, and family-friendly.

Origin of Marsala Chicken
The origin and history of Chicken Marsala is somewhat murky, but it is thought to have originated in Sicily in the early 1900s. The dish was likely inspired by the popularity of Marsala wine, which is a fortified wine produced in Sicily. Marsala wine is made from grapes grown on the slopes of Mount Etna, known for its sweet, nutty flavor.
Chicken Marsala quickly became popular throughout Italy, and it is now one of the country’s most signature dishes. The dish is also popular in many other countries, including the United States.
There are many different theories about how Chicken Marsala got its name. One theory is that the dish was named after the city of Marsala in Sicily, which is where Marsala wine is produced. Another theory is that the dish was named after the Marsala family, who were a wealthy family who owned vineyards in Sicily.
Whatever the origin of its name, Marsala chicken is a delicious and classic dish that is sure to please everyone who tries it.
Here is a fun fact about Marsala chicken: In 2012, Marsala chicken was voted the most popular dish in Italy by a survey of over 10,000 people.
The proper way to say the name of the dish is Chicken Marsala.
In Italian, the word “Marsala” is an adjective, not a noun. It means “from Marsala,” a city in Sicily where the fortified wine Marsala is produced. Therefore, the dish is properly called “chicken Marsala,” not “Marsala chicken.”
However, the term “Marsala chicken” is also widely used and is generally accepted. It is simply a matter of personal preference which term you use.
Here are some examples of how to use the term “chicken Marsala” in a sentence:
- “What’s for dinner tonight? I’m thinking of making chicken Marsala.”
- “I ordered the chicken Marsala at the restaurant and it was delicious.”
- “Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian dish that is both delicious and easy to make.”
No matter which term you choose to use, be sure to enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish!
Why is chicken marsala a popular dish in restaurants?
There are several reasons why chicken Marsala is a popular dish in restaurants:
- It is a classic Italian dish that is both delicious and easy to make. The combination of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and rich Marsala wine sauce is a surefire winner.
- It is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Chicken Marsala can be served with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or even vegetables. This makes it a good option for people with different dietary needs and preferences.
- It is a relatively affordable dish. Chicken Marsala is made with relatively inexpensive ingredients, such as chicken breasts, mushrooms, and Marsala wine. This makes it a good option for restaurants on a budget.
- It is a dish that can be easily scaled up or down. Chicken Marsala can be made for a small group of people or a large crowd. This makes it a good option for restaurants of all sizes.
In addition to these reasons, chicken Marsala is also a popular dish in restaurants because it is a dish that people are familiar with and enjoy. It is a classic dish that has been around for many years, and it is a dish that people know they will like.
Here are some additional reasons why chicken Marsala is a popular dish in restaurants:
- It is a dish that is visually appealing. The golden brown chicken, the white mushrooms, and the rich brown sauce are all very appealing to the eye.
- It is a dish that is aromatic. The smell of the cooking chicken, mushrooms, and Marsala wine is very enticing.
- It is a dish that is satisfying. The combination of the tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and rich sauce is very satisfying to eat.
Overall, chicken Marsala is a popular dish in restaurants because it is a delicious, versatile, affordable, and visually appealing dish that people are familiar with and enjoy.
Ordering Marsala Chicken at a restaurant
When ordering Marsala chicken at a restaurant, there are a few things you can do to make sure that you get the best possible dish:
- Ask the waiter or waitress about the chef’s preparation. How is the chicken cooked? What kind of Marsala wine is used? What other ingredients are in the dish?
- If possible, order the dish off the specials menu. This is where the chef is likely to be showcasing their creativity and using the freshest ingredients.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for substitutions or modifications. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can ask for them to be omitted or replaced with another vegetable. If you like your food extra spicy, you can ask for the sauce to be made with a hotter Marsala wine.
Here are some additional tips for ordering Marsala chicken at a restaurant:
- Choose a restaurant that has a good reputation for Italian food. This will increase your chances of getting a well-prepared dish.
- Avoid ordering Marsala chicken at a chain restaurant. Chain restaurants often use pre-made sauces and ingredients, which can result in a less flavorful dish.
- Be prepared to pay a bit more for Marsala chicken. This is a classic dish that is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Once you have ordered your Marsala chicken, enjoy it! This is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion.

Here is a recipe for you to try
Yes, you can easily make chicken Marsala at home. It’s a great way to impress your family and friends with your cooking skills. We found this popular recipe from Jen Seagal at Once Upon a Chef. It has many positive reviews and comments. We tried and liked it, but we preferred it with a little more seasoning.
The recipe serves 4 people, so choose your favorite people to enjoy the meal with you. It takes about 15 minutes to prep, and 30 minutes to cook, and in 45 minutes, you have your main dish ready. Now, it’s time to choose your sides.
Here are a few tips for making the best chicken Marsala at home:
- Use dry Marsala wine for the best flavor. Sweet Marsala wine will make the dish too sweet.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. This will prevent the chicken from browning properly.
- If you want a thicker sauce, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch (we prefer flour) and 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Add to the skillet in step 6 and cook for 1 minute or until the sauce has thickened.
- Serve the chicken immediately with your favorite sides.
However, there are many ways to put your own twist on this classic dish. Here are a few ideas:
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean flair.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a more flavorful and juicy dish.
- Add a splash of cream to the sauce for a richer and creamier flavor.
- Top the chicken with prosciutto and Fontina cheese for a decadent and elegant meal.
- Serve the chicken over mashed potatoes for a hearty and comforting dish.
No matter how you choose to make it, Chicken Marsala is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Here is a simple recipe to get you started:
Common Sides for Chicken Marsala:
- Rice
- Pasta
- Mashed potatoes
- Vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans

Notes and Tips
Here are a few tips for making the best chicken Marsala:
- For a thicker sauce, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch (we prefer flour) and 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Add to the skillet in step 6 and cook for 1 minute, or until the sauce has thickened.
- If you don’t have Marsala wine, you can substitute another dry sherry or Madeira wine.
- Use dry Marsala wine for the best flavor. Sweet Marsala wine will make the dish too sweet.
- You can also add other vegetables to the dish, such as onions, carrots, or celery.
- Use NouBess seasonings and condiments to add more flavor to the dish.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. This will prevent the chicken from browning properly.
- Serve Marsala chicken with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
- Or serve the chicken immediately with your favorite sides.
Storage and Reheating:
Chicken Marsala can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat and cook until heated through.
Variations for Chicken Marsala Recipe
- Chicken Marsala with Prosciutto and Fontina: Top the chicken breasts with Prosciutto and Fontina cheese before returning them to the skillet. Cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Chicken Marsala with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives: Add 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1/4 cup of pitted olives to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute or until heated through.
- Chicken Marsala with Spinach: Add 1 cup of spinach to the skillet. Cook until wilted.
Reasons to try making chicken marsala at home:
- It is a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight meal.
- The sauce is rich and flavorful, and the combination of chicken, mushrooms, and Marsala wine is simply irresistible.
- Chicken marsala is relatively easy to make, even for beginner cooks.
- It is a versatile dish that can be served on its own, over pasta, or with rice or mashed potatoes.
Reasons to order chicken marsala at a restaurant:
- It is a classic dish that is often prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- A skilled chef can prepare chicken marsala to perfection, with a perfectly cooked chicken breast and a rich, flavorful sauce.
- Chicken marsala is a dish that is typically served with a side of pasta or rice, so it is a complete meal in one.
- Ordering chicken marsala at a restaurant is a great way to enjoy a delicious and elegant meal without having to do any of the cooking or cleaning up.
Here are some additional reasons to try chicken marsala:
- It is a relatively healthy dish, as it is made with lean chicken breast, mushrooms, and a moderate amount of oil.
- Chicken marsala is a good source of protein and dietary fiber.
- The Marsala wine in the sauce adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to the dish.
- Chicken marsala is a relatively affordable dish, both to make at home and to order at a restaurant.
Enjoy!
Overall, chicken marsala is a delicious, versatile, and relatively healthy dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you choose to make it at home or order it at a restaurant, you are sure to enjoy this classic Italian-American dish. It is a great option for a weeknight meal, but it is also fancy enough to serve to guests. With its rich and flavorful sauce, a good Chicken Marsala recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.