Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta

Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta is a mouthwatering blend of tender chicken slices, earthy mushrooms, and a silky Marsala wine-infused cream sauce tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s a cozy, luxurious meal that tastes like something you’d find at a charming Italian restaurant—but it’s simple enough to whip up at home on a weeknight.

The unique flavor of Marsala wine adds a rich depth to the sauce, while Parmesan cheese brings that comforting, savory kick. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish never fails to impress. With its creamy texture, golden seared chicken, and hints of garlic and herbs, this pasta is bound to become a new dinner favorite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 3/4 cup Marsala wine

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add mushrooms and cook until softened and browned, about 5 minutes.

5. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

6. Pour in Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

7. Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for another 3 minutes.

8. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking until the sauce thickens, about 4 minutes.

9. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and simmer for 2 more minutes.

10. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy Marsala sauce.

11. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 585 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

If you’re searching for a dish that combines elegance, comfort, and rich flavor, Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta is the answer. This hearty meal brings together tender chicken breast, earthy mushrooms, savory garlic, and a velvety Marsala wine sauce with a touch of cream, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the kind of dish that makes any dinner feel like a special occasion.

A Brief Background on Chicken Marsala

Chicken Marsala has Italian-American roots and is derived from the traditional Italian scaloppine dishes—thin slices of meat sautéed and served in sauce. The signature ingredient, Marsala wine, comes from the Sicilian city of Marsala and is known for its sweet, nutty flavor. It’s commonly used in savory sauces and desserts like zabaglione. Over time, Marsala made its way into American kitchens, where it became the foundation for rich, creamy chicken-based entrees.

By pairing the classic Chicken Marsala flavors with pasta, this dish evolves into a well-rounded meal that delivers both protein and carbohydrates in one delicious plate.

Why This Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta Is the Best

Here are some reasons this dish stands out in the world of pasta recipes:

1. The Perfect Balance of Flavors
Marsala wine provides a complex sweetness and depth that pairs beautifully with the umami-rich mushrooms. The cream rounds out the sauce, creating a luxurious texture, while Parmesan cheese adds a savory punch. It’s a harmony of flavors that’s hard to beat.

2. It’s Incredibly Satisfying
With a rich, creamy sauce and hearty ingredients, this pasta is filling and comforting. It’s ideal for cold evenings, Sunday dinners, or whenever you’re craving something warm and satisfying.

3. A Restaurant-Level Dish at Home
This dish has all the elegance of something you’d order at a high-end Italian bistro, but it’s easy to make in your own kitchen. With simple, accessible ingredients and clear steps, even beginner cooks can impress.

4. Flexible and Customizable
You can make this recipe your own. Try swapping fettuccine with penne, tagliatelle, or even gluten-free pasta. Want to skip the cream? Add a splash of milk and extra broth for a lighter version. Prefer white wine? While Marsala is the signature, a dry white can also create a great variation.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

Although this dish feels indulgent, it contains several wholesome components:

Chicken Breast – A lean protein source that supports muscle repair and satiety. Skinless chicken breast is low in fat yet high in essential nutrients like B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium.

Mushrooms – Packed with antioxidants, selenium, and B vitamins, mushrooms are known for supporting the immune system and reducing inflammation. They also provide fiber and a meaty texture without adding many calories.

Garlic – A powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant ingredient. Garlic is known to support heart health and boost the immune system.

Parsley – Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, fresh parsley brings brightness to the dish and contributes a small dose of detoxifying properties.

Olive Oil – Heart-healthy fats in olive oil support cardiovascular wellness and add richness without relying on butter or other saturated fats.

Pasta (Choose Wisely) – Using whole-grain or legume-based pasta adds fiber and complex carbs, making the dish more balanced and blood-sugar friendly.

Cooking Tips for Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta

Here are some tips to help you elevate your dish every time:

• Sear the Chicken Properly – Browning the chicken gives the dish an extra layer of flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
• Use High-Quality Marsala Wine – Sweet Marsala is traditional, but you can also use dry Marsala for a less sweet, more savory version. Always cook with a wine you’d enjoy drinking.
• Simmer the Sauce Gently – Once you add the cream, keep the heat low. High heat can cause dairy to separate and ruin the silky texture.
• Reserve Some Pasta Water – Adding a splash of pasta water helps emulsify the sauce, making it cling to the noodles better.
• Finish With Parmesan and Herbs – Freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley brighten and complete the dish. Don’t skip this final touch.

Variations You’ll Love

This dish is flexible—try one of these twists:

• Mushroom Lovers’ Edition – Add a mix of wild mushrooms like shiitake, cremini, or oyster mushrooms for an even deeper earthy flavor.
• Vegetarian Version – Replace the chicken with chickpeas or sautéed tofu and use veggie broth instead of chicken broth.
• Lighter Version – Use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut cream for a lighter sauce.
• Add Greens – Toss in fresh spinach or kale at the end for extra color and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce for those who like it fiery.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair With: A crisp green salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette or lemon dressing works great to cut through the richness of the dish.
• Side Option: Serve with warm garlic bread or a roasted vegetable medley like asparagus or zucchini.
• Wine Pairing: Complement the dish with a glass of the same Marsala wine used in the sauce, or opt for a dry white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To Store:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

To Reheat:
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving at high power, as it may cause the cream to separate.

When to Serve This Dish

This Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta is incredibly versatile. It’s ideal for:

• Weeknight dinners when you want something quick but comforting
• Date nights at home with a cozy ambiance and a glass of wine
• Family gatherings or potlucks where you need a dish that satisfies a crowd
• Meal prep for a few days of indulgent lunches

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe

This dish checks every box: creamy, savory, balanced, and packed with flavor. The combination of Marsala wine, mushrooms, and garlic creates a sauce that feels indulgent yet elevated. Plus, with tender chicken and a satisfying pasta base, it’s hearty enough to serve as a complete meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a dinner party, this pasta dish never fails to deliver.

With just one skillet and a pot of pasta, you can create a comforting, gourmet-style meal that’s better than takeout and far more nourishing.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta is the perfect blend of elegance and comfort, bringing restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen. With its rich, velvety sauce, tender chicken, and savory mushrooms, this dish is a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re making a cozy weeknight dinner, hosting friends, or craving something hearty and satisfying, this pasta delivers every time. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that you’ll return to again and again—because great food doesn’t have to be complicated, it just has to be made with care. Try it once, and it just might become your new favorite classic.