Olive Garden Chicken Marsala Recipe

When you’re craving that classic Olive Garden Chicken Marsala, there’s no need to head out to the restaurant.

This dish brings together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and the rich, nutty taste of Marsala wine.

The secret to getting the sauce just right is to let it simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.

One aspect I love about this recipe is its ability to transform a simple weeknight dinner into something special.

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Marsala Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 pieces Chicken Breast (boneless)
• 1 cup Flour
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tsp Oregano (dried)
• 4 tbsp Butter
• 4 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 cup Cremini Mushrooms (sliced)
• 1/2 cup Marsala Wine
• 1/2 cup Chicken Broth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Combine the flour, salt, pepper, and oregano in a shallow dish.

Dredge the chicken breasts in the mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.

Shake off any excess flour for best results.

Step 2:

Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Once the butter is melted and bubbling lightly, add the chicken breasts.

Cook each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until they turn golden brown.

Step 3:

Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels.

In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them until tender and fragrant.

This should take about 3 minutes.

Step 4:

Pour in the Marsala wine and chicken broth to deglaze the pan.

Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

This will help create a rich sauce full of flavor.

Step 5:

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet.

Let them simmer in the sauce for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly and the sauce thickens to your liking.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing the Right Wine

Using a good quality Marsala wine will make all the difference in the flavor of the sauce.

A dry Marsala works best for a savory dish like this one, so do give it a try.

Achieving Tender Chicken

For more tender chicken, you can use a meat mallet to gently flatten the chicken breasts before dredging them in flour.

This helps them cook evenly and quickly without drying out.

Sauce Consistency

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

This is a simple way to adjust the sauce to your liking without altering the flavor.

What to Serve with Olive Garden Chicken Marsala

Caprese Salad

You should try pairing your Chicken Marsala with a fresh Caprese salad!

Ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil bring a terrific garden-fresh touch to your plate.

A drizzle of olive oil enhances the flavors beautifully.

Green Beans

Green beans offer a crunchy side that works wonders with the rich flavors of Chicken Marsala.

You can add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or some crunchy almonds to make it even tastier!

Couscous

Couscous is a versatile option that complements the savory Marsala sauce very well.

Try toasting it in olive oil before cooking to enhance its nutty flavor, which I find truly enjoyable.

Couscous offers a fabulous and mild texture!

Roasted Broccolini

Roasted broccolini is another excellent addition!

It’s a slightly different but delicious take that I love to serve with Chicken Marsala.

Broccolini retains its crunch while providing a unique flavor profile.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are a comfort food classic that pairs effortlessly with Chicken Marsala.

The creamy potatoes soak up the sauce, making every bite a flavorful experience.

Sometimes I add extra garlic to the mash for a little kick.

Spinach Salad with Strawberries

Consider trying a spinach salad with fresh strawberries.

The sweet burst of strawberries with the leafy greens offers a refreshing twist.

Throw in some walnuts or feta cheese, and you’ve got a winning salad combination.

Variations and Substitutions

For a fun twist, why not try using chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

They bring a rich flavor and stay juicy!

You might find the distinctive taste of Marsala wine hard to replace.

In a pinch, Madeira or dry sherry can work, but the original flavor is best!

Alternative Options

Using veal scaloppini can take the dish in a new direction.

You should adjust cooking time to avoid overcooking, ensuring it’s tender and succulent.

If you’re fresh out of porcini mushrooms, fresh button mushrooms work nicely as a substitute.

They are more accessible and still provide that earthy flavor.

How to Store Leftover Olive Garden Chicken Marsala

Leftover Olive Garden Chicken Marsala can be just as tasty the next day if stored correctly!

When you’re ready to save those delicious leftovers, use an airtight container to keep the chicken moist.

Refrigerate the leftover chicken within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness!

Refrigeration Tips

Place the chicken in a shallow container to help it cool down quickly in the refrigerator.

Leaving the chicken in the fridge for up to three days is usually fine, but make sure to use your senses before eating.

It’s often helpful to label your leftovers with the date to keep track of their freshness.

Freezer Instructions

If you’re thinking of storing the chicken Marsala for more extended periods, you can freeze it!

Wrap the chicken tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag.

Don’t forget to press out as much air as possible from the bag to avoid freezer burn.

General Storage Advice

Keep the sauce and chicken separate if possible, as this preserves the texture better.

This separation also makes it simpler to mix and match with other dishes if you choose.

When you finally get to enjoy your leftovers, they’ll taste just as good as the first day!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding Dry Chicken

It’s tempting to turn up the heat and cook chicken quickly, but you risk drying it out!

Try to maintain medium heat and monitor closely.

Gentle, even cooking makes it nice and juicy.

Marsala Sauce Balance

The Marsala sauce needs the right blend of wine, spices, and mushrooms.

Don’t make the mistake of adding too much wine, which overpowers the dish.

Taste and adjust as you go to achieve that perfect rich flavor.

Perfect Timing with the Pasta

Juggling multiple components can be tricky, but timing is key!

Start boiling pasta while the chicken cooks to have everything ready simultaneously.

Simmer your Marsala sauce just before serving so it’s warm and flavorful.