Chicken Marsala Casserole Recipe

If you're a fan of the rich, savory flavors of Chicken Marsala but are looking for an easy, comforting, and crowd-pleasing meal, this Chicken Marsala Casserole is exactly what you need. Combining the best elements of the traditional Chicken Marsala with the convenience of a baked casserole, this dish will quickly become a favorite. Whether you're preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to impress. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide, expert tips, and answers to all your questions about making this mouth-watering recipe.

What Is Chicken Marsala?

Chicken Marsala is an Italian-American classic made with chicken cutlets, mushrooms, and a rich sauce featuring Marsala wine. The combination of savory chicken, earthy mushrooms, and sweet, fortified Marsala wine makes this dish truly irresistible. Traditionally, the chicken is pan-fried and served with the wine sauce over pasta or mashed potatoes, but in this recipe, we're taking those iconic flavors and turning them into a cozy, easy-to-make casserole that's perfect for busy weeknights or large gatherings.

Ingredients List for Chicken Marsala Casserole

To create the ultimate Chicken Marsala Casserole, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
• 8 ounces of baby Bella or cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup Marsala wine (sweet or dry, based on your preference)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Cooked pasta or rice, for serving (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

Chicken Marsala Casserole is a versatile dish, and you can make substitutions or variations based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas:

• Meat Variations: Instead of chicken breasts, try using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more tender result. You could also use turkey breast if you want to switch things up for a holiday meal.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with extra mushrooms, tofu, or even chickpeas. You'll still get that rich, savory flavor from the Marsala wine sauce.
• Gluten-Free: To make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and serve it with gluten-free pasta or rice.
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based cream substitute and skip the cheese, or use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Marsala Wine Substitute: If you don’t have Marsala wine on hand, you can substitute it with sherry or Madeira wine, which offer similar flavors. In a pinch, you could use a mix of white wine and a bit of brandy for a different but still delicious result.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking. Follow these steps to make your Chicken Marsala Casserole:

1. Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this point, as it will finish cooking in the oven. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

3. Sauté the mushrooms and onions

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Sauté the mushrooms and onions for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft and lightly browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

4. Deglaze with Marsala wine

Pour in the Marsala wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

5. Add the chicken broth and cream

Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

6. Assemble the casserole

Slice the seared chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large baking dish. Pour the mushroom and Marsala sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.

7. Top with breadcrumbs

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole for a crispy, golden topping.

8. Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

9. Garnish and serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley and thyme, if desired. Serve hot over cooked pasta or rice, or enjoy on its own for a low-carb option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken: Since the chicken will bake further in the oven, be careful not to overcook it when searing. You only need to brown the chicken at this stage, so it remains juicy after baking.
• Forgetting to reduce the wine: Make sure you give the Marsala wine enough time to reduce in the skillet. This step intensifies the flavors and ensures your sauce isn’t too watery.
• Not seasoning enough: Don’t forget to season each layer of the dish. Season the chicken, the mushrooms, and the sauce to ensure that every bite is full of flavor.
• Skipping the breadcrumbs: The breadcrumb topping adds a wonderful crunch and contrast to the creamy chicken and sauce. Don’t skip this step unless you’re avoiding gluten!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken Marsala Casserole is a hearty dish that’s perfect for serving with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Pair with starch: Serve this casserole over a bed of buttered pasta, rice, or even creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all the delicious Marsala sauce.
• Serve with vegetables: A simple side of steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a fresh garden salad will balance out the richness of the dish.
• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the sauce.

How to Serve Chicken Marsala Casserole

When serving Chicken Marsala Casserole, cut it into portions using a spatula or large serving spoon. It can be served directly from the casserole dish, making it ideal for family-style dinners. For individual servings, consider spooning the casserole over a bed of pasta or rice on each plate. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color and freshness.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Marsala Casserole

Presentation matters, even with a casual casserole dish. Here are some easy ways to make your Chicken Marsala Casserole look as good as it tastes:

• Garnish with herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds a pop of color to the top of the casserole.
• Serve in a rustic dish: Present your casserole in a beautifully glazed ceramic baking dish for a rustic, homey vibe.
• Layer your plate: If serving over pasta or rice, create a neat layer of your starch on the plate before spooning the casserole on top for a more polished presentation.

Chicken Marsala Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time. Simply assemble everything up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
• Double the recipe: This recipe can easily be doubled if you’re feeding a larger group. Use a bigger baking dish, or divide it between two smaller ones.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of wine for this recipe?
A: Yes! If you don’t have Marsala wine, you can substitute it with sherry, Madeira, or even a mixture of white wine and brandy. Each will provide a slightly different flavor, but all will be delicious.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Marsala Casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze it. After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly and freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.

Q: Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for Marsala wine?
A: If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute the Marsala wine with a mixture of chicken broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar or grape juice to mimic the sweet and tangy flavor of the wine.

Conclusion

Chicken Marsala Casserole is the perfect dish to add to your dinner rotation. It’s flavorful, easy to prepare, and offers all the comforting goodness of a casserole with the sophisticated flavors of a classic Italian dish. With the option to make it ahead, customize it to your preferences, and serve it for various occasions, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite. Try it out today and savor the rich, creamy, and savory combination of chicken, mushrooms, and Marsala wine!

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