If you are looking for a comforting, elegant dinner that feels restaurant-worthy but is still simple to make at home, this Ina Garten Chicken Marsala Recipe Easy and Authentic is exactly what you need. Inspired by the timeless approach of Ina Garten, this dish focuses on quality ingredients, clear steps, and rich, balanced flavor that works beautifully for both weeknights and special occasions.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Ina Garten Chicken Marsala Recipe Easy and Authentic
This recipe is a favorite because it delivers big flavor without complicated techniques. The chicken stays tender, the mushrooms add depth, and the sauce is silky and savory.
You will love this recipe because:
- It uses simple pantry ingredients you can find anywhere
- The cooking method is straightforward and reliable
- The flavors feel classic and comforting, not heavy
- It pairs well with many side dishes
- It feels special enough for guests but easy enough for family dinners
Ingredients for Ina Garten Chicken Marsala Recipe Easy and Authentic
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce and Cooking Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 10 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 3/4 cup chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 to 2 tablespoons white grape juice for mild sweetness
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Traditionally, chicken marsala uses Marsala wine. For a family-friendly version that fits everyday cooking, this recipe replaces wine with chicken stock, balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, and a touch of grape juice to mimic the depth and gentle sweetness of the classic sauce.
If you want a lighter dish, you can reduce the butter to 1 tablespoon and increase the olive oil slightly. For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Pound them gently until they are about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and stay tender.
In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, salt, and black pepper. Dredge each piece of chicken lightly in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and become golden.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken stock, balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, and white grape juice. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, until slightly reduced and glossy.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together and the chicken to absorb the sauce.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Success
- Pound the chicken evenly so it cooks at the same rate
- Do not overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken
- Let the mushrooms brown before adding liquid for deeper flavor
- Taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasoning if needed
- Use a wide skillet to allow the sauce to reduce properly
Flavor Variations
- Add a small clove of minced garlic when cooking the mushrooms
- Stir in a tablespoon of cream at the end for a richer sauce
- Add fresh thyme or rosemary for an herbal note
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness
- Add a splash of extra stock if you prefer more sauce
Serving Suggestions
This Ina Garten Chicken Marsala Recipe Easy and Authentic pairs beautifully with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Buttered egg noodles
- Steamed green beans or asparagus
- Simple rice pilaf
- Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if the sauce thickens too much.
Freezing is possible, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Ina Garten Chicken Marsala Recipe: Easy and Authentic
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A comforting and elegant chicken marsala inspired by Ina Garten, made with tender chicken, golden mushrooms, and a rich savory sauce using simple, family friendly ingredients.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 10 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 3/4 cup chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 to 2 tablespoons white grape juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped, optional
Instructions
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
- Mix flour, salt, and black pepper and dredge the chicken lightly.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet and sear the chicken until golden and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and keep warm.
- Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook until softened and golden.
- Pour in chicken stock, balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, and white grape juice.
- Simmer the sauce until slightly reduced.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top.
- Simmer gently until flavors combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
Finish the chicken in the sauce to keep it moist and taste the sauce before serving to adjust seasoning if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 620 mg |
FAQ About Ina Garten Chicken Marsala Recipe Easy and Authentic
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a few hours in advance and reheat it gently before serving. The flavors actually deepen as it rests.
What mushrooms work best?
Cremini mushrooms are ideal because they have a deeper flavor, but white button mushrooms work just as well.
Is this recipe good for beginners?
Absolutely. The steps are clear and forgiving, making it a great choice for home cooks of all skill levels.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger skillet or cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
Do not overcook the chicken during the initial sear. Finishing it in the sauce helps keep it moist and tender.
Final Thoughts
This Ina Garten Chicken Marsala Recipe Easy and Authentic proves that classic comfort food does not need to be complicated. With simple ingredients, thoughtful substitutions, and a reliable method, you can bring a timeless dish to your table that everyone will enjoy.