Simple Ina Garten Chicken Marsala With Mushrooms is a timeless, comforting dish inspired by the elegant yet approachable cooking style of Ina Garten. This recipe delivers tender pan-seared chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a silky sauce that feels special enough for guests while remaining easy enough for a weeknight dinner. To keep it family-friendly and suitable for all kitchens, this version replaces Marsala wine with a rich broth-based alternative that still captures the signature depth and balance of flavors.
If you love cozy, restaurant-style meals made with simple ingredients and clear steps, this chicken marsala belongs on your menu.
Why You’ll Love This Ina Garten Chicken Marsala
This dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. The chicken is lightly floured and seared until golden, which locks in moisture and creates a delicate crust. Mushrooms bring savory depth, while the creamy sauce ties everything together without feeling heavy.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or crusty bread. The leftovers reheat well, making it a smart choice for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Most importantly, this recipe proves that elegant food does not need to be complicated. With a few thoughtful techniques and quality ingredients, you can create a dish that feels truly special.
Ingredients for Ina Garten Chicken Marsala
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 half cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 half teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
Mushroom Sauce
- 12 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar or fresh lemon juice
- 3 quarters cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
Ingredient Notes
Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness helps them cook evenly and stay tender. Aim for about three quarters of an inch thick.
Cremini mushrooms add deeper flavor, but white button mushrooms work just as well. Use what you have on hand.
The combination of chicken broth and a small amount of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice replaces Marsala wine while keeping the sauce balanced and flavorful.
Heavy cream creates a richer sauce, while half-and-half makes it slightly lighter without sacrificing creaminess.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Pound gently until evenly thick.
Season both sides with salt and black pepper. Dredge lightly in flour, shaking off excess. This thin coating helps create a golden crust and thickens the sauce later.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, until golden brown and nearly cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet.
Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and begin to brown. Proper browning builds deep, savory flavor.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
Stir in the minced shallot and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the balsamic vinegar or lemon juice.
Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 6: Add Cream and Chicken
Lower the heat and stir in the cream or half-and-half. Return the chicken and any juices to the skillet.
Simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens to a silky consistency.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Serve hot with your favorite sides and plenty of sauce.
Pro Tips for Success
- Pound chicken evenly for tender, juicy results
- Do not overcrowd the pan when searing
- Let mushrooms brown fully before stirring
- Keep heat low once cream is added
- Spoon sauce over chicken just before serving
Flavor Variations
This chicken marsala-style dish is easy to customize.
For extra herbs, add a pinch of fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce.
For a dairy-light option, use evaporated milk instead of cream.
For added vegetables, stir in spinach at the end until just wilted.
For deeper mushroom flavor, mix cremini mushrooms with shiitake mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up the sauce.
Buttered pasta, egg noodles, or rice are also excellent options.
For a lighter plate, serve it with roasted asparagus, green beans, or a simple arugula salad.
Crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at reduced power, stirring occasionally.
Freezing is possible, but cream-based sauces may change texture slightly. If freezing, cool completely and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating slowly.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 |
| Protein | 36 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
Values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.
FAQ About Ina Garten Chicken Marsala
What can I use instead of Marsala wine?
Chicken broth combined with a small amount of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice works very well. This creates balance and depth without using alcohol.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs are a great option. They may need a few extra minutes to cook but stay very juicy.
Why is my sauce too thin?
Let the sauce simmer a bit longer to reduce. The flour on the chicken also helps thicken the sauce as it cooks.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it earlier in the day and reheat gently before serving. The flavors develop nicely as it rests.
Is this dish good for entertaining?
Absolutely. It looks elegant, tastes rich, and can be paired with many sides, making it ideal for guests.
Ina Garten Chicken Marsala With Mushrooms
Equipment
- large skillet
- meat mallet
- tongs
- cutting board and knife
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 12 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar or fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season both sides with salt and black pepper, then lightly dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining butter. Add mushrooms and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until they release moisture and brown.
- Add the shallot and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Stir in balsamic vinegar or lemon juice and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Lower the heat and stir in the cream. Return the chicken and juices to the skillet and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until cooked through and sauce thickens.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
Simple Ina Garten Chicken Marsala With Mushrooms is proof that classic comfort food can also feel refined. With tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a creamy, balanced sauce, this dish delivers warmth, flavor, and elegance in every bite.
Whether you are cooking for family, friends, or a quiet evening at home, this recipe is a reliable and rewarding choice that feels special without being complicated.
