Introduction

Chicken Marsala is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, savory Marsala wine sauce and earthy mushrooms. This Chicken Marsala Casserole takes that classic flavor combination and transforms it into a comforting, easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 8 oz. sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup Marsala wine
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 tbsp. butter, divided
• 1 tsp. dried thyme
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 oz. uncooked penne pasta
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp. butter over medium heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp. butter. Add sliced mushrooms and diced onion. Sauté until the mushrooms release their moisture and the onion is translucent.
5. Add minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
6. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
7. Slowly pour in the Marsala wine and chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened.
8. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
9. In a large baking dish, combine the cooked penne pasta, chicken, and Marsala sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
10. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
12. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Flavor Profile

This Chicken Marsala Casserole is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. The rich Marsala wine sauce is the star of the dish, infusing the chicken and pasta with its deep, complex notes. The earthy mushrooms and aromatic onion and garlic provide a savory backbone, while the heavy cream adds a luxurious, velvety texture.

The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses creates a gooey, golden-brown topping that perfectly complements the creamy sauce and tender chicken. The fresh parsley garnish adds a pop of color and a bright, herbaceous note that ties everything together.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with some simple sides to round out the dish:

• Green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Steamed or roasted vegetables (such as green beans, broccoli, or asparagus)
• Crusty bread or garlic bread for sopping up the delicious sauce
• A crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and double the mushrooms for a meat-free version. You can also add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or arrowroot powder.
• Protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese: Try using different cheeses like provolone, fontina, or smoked gouda for a unique twist.

Conclusion

This Chicken Marsala Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the classic flavors of Chicken Marsala to your dinner table in an easy, one-pan format. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese topping, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this Chicken Marsala Casserole is a perfect choice. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal that’s sure to impress!