If you love rich, creamy dishes, you’ll adore my Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta! This one-pot meal combines tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and fettuccine in a delicious, easy-to-make sauce. Perfect for busy nights, it simplifies dinner without losing flavor. Ready to impress your family with this tasty delight? Let’s dive into the recipe and make your next meal unforgettable!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
– 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
Vegetable Ingredients
– 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (preferably cremini or button)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning and Garnish Ingredients
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
Preparing and Browning the Chicken
First, I heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. I add sliced chicken breasts once the oil is hot. I make sure the chicken is seasoned with salt and pepper. I cook it for about 5-6 minutes until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Once done, I remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
Seasoning Tips
For the best taste, I use fresh salt and cracked pepper. You can also add garlic powder for extra flavor. If you like spice, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Sautéing the Vegetables
Onions and Garlic Preparation
In the same pot, I add chopped onion and minced garlic. I sauté them for 2-3 minutes until the onion turns translucent. This step builds a flavor base for the dish.
Cooking the Mushrooms
Next, I add sliced mushrooms to the pot. I cook them for about 5 minutes until they are browned and tender. I stir often to keep them from sticking.
Combining Ingredients
Adding Chicken and Broth to the Pot
Now, I return the cooked chicken to the pot. I pour in the chicken broth, making sure it covers the chicken and veggies well. This is when the dish starts to come together.
Bringing to a Simmer
I bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. It’s important to let it bubble slightly, so the flavors meld together nicely.
Cooking the Pasta
Mixing in Fettuccine
Next, I stir in the fettuccine. I make sure the pasta is well covered by the broth mixture. This helps the pasta absorb the delicious flavors.
Testing for Doneness
I cook it for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. I taste a piece to check if it’s al dente. It should be firm but not hard.
Adding Cream and Seasoning
Incorporating Heavy Cream
Once the pasta is just right, I lower the heat. I stir in heavy cream, which makes the dish rich and creamy.
Adjusting Flavors
I add dried thyme and Italian seasoning at this point. I give it a taste, then adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
Serving the Dish
Garnishing Tips
I serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley. I also sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. This adds a nice touch and extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, I like to serve it with a crisp salad. A nice glass of white wine pairs well too!
Tips & Tricks
Ingredient Substitutions
– Alternatives for Chicken or Pasta: If you want a twist, use turkey or tofu instead of chicken. For pasta, try whole wheat or spiralized zucchini for a healthy change. Both options can adapt well to this creamy sauce.
– Dairy-Free Options: You can swap heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. Both give a rich texture without dairy. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully dairy-free dish.
Cooking Techniques
– Ensuring Pasta is Al Dente: To get perfect pasta, follow the package instructions closely. Check the pasta a minute or two before the time is up. It should be firm but not hard. This way, it will soak up more sauce later.
– Thickening the Sauce: If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer. The heat helps reduce the liquid. You can also add a bit more cream for extra richness. A cornstarch slurry can thicken it quickly, too.
Serving Suggestions
– Pairing with Side Dishes: A simple green salad pairs well with this dish. Garlic bread complements the creamy sauce nicely. Roasted vegetables add color and flavor to your meal.
– Wine Suggestions: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir enhances the flavors of the dish. Both wines match well with the richness of the creamy sauce. Enjoying a glass while you eat makes the meal even better.

Variations
Different Pasta Options
You can switch up the pasta to keep things fun. Here are some ideas:
– Gluten-Free Alternatives: Use gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn. This option works well and is easy to find in stores.
– Other Pasta Shapes: Try penne, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Each shape holds sauce differently, adding a unique twist.
Flavor Additions
Enhancing the dish can make it even better. Consider these flavor boosts:
– Adding Spinach or Other Vegetables: Toss in fresh spinach or broccoli. They add color and nutrition without altering the taste much.
– Incorporating Different Spices: Experiment with paprika or red pepper flakes. These spices can give your dish a nice kick.
Sauce Variations
Changing the sauce can create new tastes. Here are two fun ideas:
– Using White Wine Instead of Marsala: Swap Marsala for white wine like Chardonnay. This will give the sauce a lighter flavor.
– Creamy Tomato Variation: Mix in some crushed tomatoes with the cream. This gives a rich, tangy flavor that pairs well with chicken.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your creamy chicken marsala pasta fresh, follow these best practices for refrigeration:
– Let the pasta cool to room temperature.
– Place it in an airtight container.
– Store it in the fridge for up to three days.
For the ideal container types, use glass or BPA-free plastic. These materials help keep the pasta safe and tasty.
Reheating Instructions
You can reheat your pasta using several methods:
– Microwave: Place the pasta in a bowl and cover it. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between.
– Stovetop: Put the pasta in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help it warm up.
To maintain creaminess, avoid high heat, which can cause the sauce to separate. Stir gently to keep everything smooth.
Freezing Options
If you want to save your pasta for later, follow these freezing techniques:
– Portion the pasta into smaller servings.
– Place each portion in a freezer-safe bag or container.
For the best practices for thawing, move the pasta to the fridge overnight before reheating. This keeps the texture nice and creamy when you warm it up again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of wine?
Yes, you can use other wines. White wine works well, too. It adds a nice touch. If you prefer something sweeter, try a sherry. Each wine adds a unique flavor. Remember, the goal is to enhance the dish without overpowering it.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free. Use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta. Brands like Barilla or Banza offer good options. Just check the package for cooking times. They may take less time to cook than regular pasta.
How can I make this recipe in advance?
Making this dish ahead is simple. Cook the chicken and veggies first. Then, store them in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, cook the pasta. Combine it all together and add cream just before serving. This keeps the sauce fresh and tasty.
What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta?
This dish pairs well with many sides. A simple green salad adds freshness. Garlic bread is great for soaking up the sauce. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans work nicely, too. Choose sides that balance the rich flavors of the pasta.
This recipe for Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta brings together simple ingredients and clear steps. You learned how to cook the chicken, sauté fresh veggies, and create a rich cream sauce. I shared tips for ingredient swaps and cooking techniques to enhance your dish. Remember to store and reheat leftovers properly for the best taste. Experiment with variations to make this recipe your own. Enjoy the process and savor each bite of your delicious meal!


