What Are the Ingredients for Chicken Marsala?

The classic ingredients for Chicken Marsala include: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) Mushrooms (cremini, baby bella, or white button) Garlic for depth Olive oil or butter for sautéing Dry Marsala wine or a substitute (like balsamic vinegar + honey) Chicken broth to build the sauce Cornstarch or flour to thicken the sauce Salt and black pepper to season Fresh parsley for garnish These simple ingredients come together in under 30 minutes to create a rich and comforting one-pan meal.

What Is Marsala Sauce Made Of?

Marsala sauce is a savory brown sauce made primarily with: Dry Marsala wine Mushrooms Garlic Chicken broth Butter or olive oil Optional: heavy cream or cornstarch for added thickness The sauce is reduced in the pan to concentrate flavor, often with the browned bits from the seared chicken (fond) adding depth. It’s earthy, slightly sweet, and perfectly balanced. If you prefer to skip alcohol , use a mix of aged balsamic vinegar and honey instead—it creates a very similar taste profile.

What Is a Substitute for Heavy Cream in Chicken Marsala?

If you’d like to make Chicken Marsala without cream or need a dairy-free option, here are some of the best substitutes: Substitute Best For Coconut cream Dairy-free and rich Cashew cream Vegan and neutral in flavor Half-and-half Lighter creamy texture Almond milk + starch Low-fat option, thickened with cornstarch

Chicken Marsala: Best 30 Minute Dinner Recipe with Creamy Option

Name: Easy Chicken Marsala Recipe (30-Minute Classic Dinner Idea)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1.25 lbs chicken breasts; 2 cups mushrooms; 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 1 tbsp honey; 1 cup chicken broth; Salt, pepper, olive oil, cornstarch

Description

This Easy Chicken Marsala Recipe delivers golden-seared chicken cutlets simmered in a savory mushroom Marsala sauce—or a balsamic honey substitute—all in just 30 minutes. It’s a rich, comforting one-skillet dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

1.25 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch (or flour)
3 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar (or 1/4 cup dry Marsala wine)
1 tablespoon honey
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Slice thick chicken breasts horizontally into cutlets and pound to even thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and cover to keep warm.
Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same pan, add sliced mushrooms and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Sprinkle with cornstarch and stir for 1 minute.
Deglaze the Pan: Add balsamic vinegar and honey (or Marsala wine) and simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
Build the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth, stir, and simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
Combine & Serve: Return chicken to the pan and spoon sauce over top. Simmer for 1–2 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

For a creamier variation, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream after the sauce thickens. Use fresh mushrooms for best texture and flavor. For a low-carb version, skip cornstarch and serve with cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Low Carb
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
Calories: 248
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 770mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 0.3g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 91mg

Keywords: chicken marsala recipe, easy chicken marsala, creamy chicken marsala, low carb chicken marsala, Dry marsala, chicken tenderloins, chicken broth, chicken breasts, cream, butter, olive oil, heavy cream