Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta

If you’re craving a comforting and richly flavored dinner, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta. It’s a harmonious blend of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious Marsala-infused cream sauce served over perfectly cooked fettuccine. This dish strikes the perfect balance between elegant and easy, making it an excellent choice for weeknight meals or special occasions alike. The magic lies in the creamy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta, delivering a savory, satisfying bite every time.

Why I Love This Recipe

What makes this Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta stand out is its simplicity paired with incredible depth of flavor. It’s a one-pan wonder after the pasta is boiled, saving time and cleanup. The chicken stays juicy and tender, while the mushrooms add an earthy richness that complements the sweetness of the Marsala wine beautifully. The sauce is silky without being heavy, thanks to the balance of chicken broth and cream. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite herbs or vegetables. It’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent but comes together so quickly, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress with minimal effort.

The Essentials

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta: Provides a wide, flat surface that holds the creamy sauce well.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing chicken and mushrooms to golden perfection.
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced: Lean protein that cooks quickly and evenly.
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Adds an earthy, meaty texture essential to the Marsala flavor profile.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Forms the base of the sauce and keeps it light.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to balance the Marsala wine.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a subtle herbal note that complements the savory sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: Adds color and a fresh finish.

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large pot: To boil the fettuccine pasta.
• Large skillet: For cooking chicken, mushrooms, and sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and sautéing.
• Knife and cutting board: To slice chicken and mushrooms.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.
• Colander: To drain pasta once cooked.

Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta Cooking Guide

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside and keep warm.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté until they release their moisture and become tender, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet’s bottom. Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to thicken slightly, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the creamy sauce. Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the pan, tossing to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

For a wine-free take on mushroom Marsala flavors, you might also want to try the Mushroom Marsala Style Tagliatelle No Wine recipe, which offers a similar richness without alcohol.

Customize for Your Needs

• Swap fettuccine for gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Add spinach or kale for an extra boost of greens and nutrients.
• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat; check out Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Over Orzo for inspiration on cooking thighs perfectly.
• For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
• Include a splash of lemon juice at the end for a fresh, tangy twist.

What Not to Do

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking chicken; it prevents browning.
• Avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente texture ensures the best bite and sauce absorption.
• Don’t skip reserving pasta water—it helps loosen the sauce without watering down flavor.
• Refrain from rushing the sauce simmer; it needs time to thicken and develop flavor.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta is great for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid curdling. This dish is not ideal for freezing as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

Reader Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine works wonderfully because of its wide shape, you can use linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you select.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk can be used, though the sauce may be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream works well but adds a subtle coconut flavor.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and mushrooms in advance and refrigerate them separately. Assemble and cook the sauce just before serving to keep the dish fresh and flavorful.

What’s the best way to slice chicken breasts?

Slice against the grain into thin strips for tender pieces that cook quickly and evenly. If the breasts are very thick, you can butterfly them first to ensure even cooking.

Keep Cooking

• Mushroom Marsala Style Tagliatelle No Wine – a savory mushroom pasta option with all the Marsala flavor.
• Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Over Orzo – a flavorful chicken dish that pairs beautifully with rice or pasta.

That’s a Wrap

This Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta is a delightful blend of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a luscious, creamy sauce that’s bound to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Its ease and elegance make it perfect for any occasion, and with a few simple ingredients, you can bring a restaurant-quality meal to your table in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers warmth, comfort, and a touch of sophistication in every bite. Give it a try, and watch it disappear quickly from your plate!

Share on Pinterest