Elevate your dinner game with this Chicken Marsala Casserole, a delightful twist on the classic Italian-American dish. This casserole combines tender chicken, flavorful mushrooms, and a rich Marsala wine sauce under a golden, cheesy crust. It’s not just a meal; it’s a cozy, comforting embrace in the form of a hearty casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
A Fusion of Flavors in Every Bite
This recipe takes the sophisticated flavors of traditional Chicken Marsala and adapts them into an easy-to-prepare casserole that’s both satisfying and impressively delicious. With layers of creamy sauce, melted cheese, and a touch of herbs, it’s a culinary creation that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Tips for Crafting the Perfect Casserole
- Proper Coating: Toss the chicken pieces in flour, salt, and pepper until well-coated. This not only seasons the chicken but helps thicken the Marsala sauce later on.
- Golden Mushrooms: Sauté the mushrooms until they’re nicely golden this brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Rich Marsala Sauce: Allow the Marsala wine to reduce slightly before adding the broth and cream, intensifying the flavor and ensuring a perfectly thickened sauce.
- Cheesy Topping: Don’t skimp on the cheeses or breadcrumbs; they provide a beautifully browned and crispy top layer that makes this casserole truly special.
Chicken Marsala Casserole Recipe:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 55 minutes
- Serving: 6 servings
- Equipment: 9×13 inch baking dish, skillet
A deliciously hearty dish that combines classic Italian flavors with the comfort of a homemade casserole.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup Marsala wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Directions:
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Coat and Brown Chicken: Toss chicken with flour, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, brown the chicken on all sides, then transfer to the baking dish.
- Cook Mushrooms and Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic until golden. Add Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme; bring to a simmer until thickened, then pour over the chicken.
- Add Cheeses and Breadcrumbs: Top the chicken with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, then sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve Warm: Enjoy this comforting casserole warm, perfect with a side of crusty bread or a light salad.
Gather and Enjoy
The Chicken Marsala Casserole is a celebration of flavor and texture, ideal for any occasion that calls for a filling, flavorful meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this casserole is sure to delight everyone at the table. Enjoy the harmony of rich Marsala wine, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness in every forkful.