olive garden chicken marsala recipe

Olive Garden’s Chicken Marsala has become a beloved classic for many who crave rich, flavorful Italian-inspired meals.

This dish captures the essence of what makes Italian cuisine so comforting and indulgent—tender chicken breasts, a flavorful Marsala wine sauce, and earthy mushrooms, all coming together to create a harmonious and mouth-watering meal.

Whether you’ve had it at the restaurant or are new to this classic, recreating Olive Garden’s Chicken Marsala at home allows you to bring a little bit of that magic to your kitchen.

This recipe is not just about the ingredients but also about the method. With a few simple steps, you can craft a dish that’s perfect for any dinner occasion, from casual weeknight meals to special gatherings.

The rich sauce, slightly sweet from the Marsala wine and savory from the mushrooms, will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Italy. Let’s dive into how to recreate this iconic dish and enjoy it in the comfort of your home.

What Makes Olive Garden’s Chicken Marsala So Special?

Olive Garden’s Chicken Marsala stands out as one of their signature dishes, offering a perfect balance of flavors that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The secret to its distinctiveness lies in its simplicity and the harmonious blend of its ingredients. The chicken is first pan-seared to a golden brown, ensuring a crisp, flavorful exterior that locks in all the juiciness. But what really elevates this dish is the Marsala sauce—crafted with a combination of Marsala wine, broth, and earthy mushrooms.

The Marsala wine imparts a deep, slightly sweet flavor that complements the richness of the chicken and the mushrooms, creating a sauce that’s both complex and velvety. The mushrooms provide an additional layer of texture and umami, soaking up the sauce and enhancing its flavors with every bite.

But what truly makes Olive Garden’s Chicken Marsala so special is the way it seamlessly blends savory, sweet, and earthy elements to create a dish that’s comforting yet refined. It’s the perfect dish for those who want to indulge in something rich and flavorful without feeling overwhelmed. It’s a timeless Italian recipe that’s both accessible and versatile—making it the kind of meal you can enjoy again and again, whether you’re dining out or cooking at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Olive Garden Chicken Marsala

To make Olive Garden’s Chicken Marsala at home, you’ll need just a few high-quality ingredients to bring out the best flavors in the dish. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• Chicken Breasts (4 boneless, skinless): Tender and juicy chicken breasts are the base of this dish. You can also use chicken thighs for a slightly different flavor and texture.
• Flour (1/2 cup): Lightly flouring the chicken helps to achieve a golden, crispy crust when it’s seared in the pan.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For searing the chicken to perfection.
• Butter (2 tbsp): Used to add richness and flavor to the sauce.
• Marsala Wine (3/4 cup): The star of the sauce. You’ll need sweet Marsala wine for that rich, slightly sweet flavor. Dry Marsala can also be used for a less sweet version.
• Mushrooms (1 1/2 cups, sliced): Fresh white or cremini mushrooms work best. They add a savory depth to the sauce.
• Chicken Broth (1 cup): Provides a savory base for the sauce and helps to balance out the sweetness of the wine.
• Heavy Cream (1/4 cup): Adds a touch of richness and helps to thicken the sauce.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds a fragrant, savory note to the sauce.
• Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous finish to the dish.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the chicken and the sauce.

With these ingredients, you’ll be able to recreate a dish that’s bursting with the familiar flavors of Olive Garden’s Chicken Marsala.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Olive Garden Chicken Marsala

Follow these simple steps to make a delicious, restaurant-quality Chicken Marsala in the comfort of your own kitchen:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Next, lightly dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess. This will create a thin, crisp layer on the chicken when seared.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate, covering it loosely with foil to keep it warm.

Step 3: Make the Marsala Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and lightly browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Marsala Wine and Chicken Broth
Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. These bits are packed with flavor and will help enhance the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce slightly.

Next, add the chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Simmer for another 3-4 minutes to let the sauce thicken slightly.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream
Add the heavy cream to the sauce, stirring gently to incorporate. This will give the sauce a rich, velvety texture. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Return the Chicken to the Pan
Return the seared chicken breasts to the pan, spooning some of the sauce and mushrooms over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to absorb some of the flavors and reheat.

Step 7: Final Touches and Serving
Once the chicken is heated through, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the Chicken Marsala hot, paired with mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables.

Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Marsala

Making a perfect Chicken Marsala requires more than just following the recipe—it’s about attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out as close to Olive Garden’s version as possible:

Choose the Right Marsala Wine
The type of Marsala wine you use can significantly impact the flavor of your sauce. For the most authentic taste, opt for sweet Marsala wine, which balances the savory chicken and mushrooms with a gentle sweetness. If you prefer a less sweet flavor, you can use dry Marsala wine, but it will change the overall profile of the sauce. Either way, make sure to choose a wine that’s good enough to drink!

Achieve a Golden, Crispy Chicken Crust
To get the perfect crispy crust on your chicken, make sure your skillet is preheated over medium-high heat before adding the chicken. The oil should shimmer but not smoke. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than searing. If needed, cook the chicken in batches. The flour coating helps to lock in moisture, giving the chicken a tender interior and a crispy exterior.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken
To prevent dry chicken, be sure to monitor the cooking time carefully. Chicken breasts can easily become overcooked, which results in a tough texture. Cook them for 4-5 minutes on each side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy, and once cooked, remove the chicken immediately from the pan.

Enhance the Sauce’s Depth of Flavor
The sauce’s richness comes from the combination of Marsala wine, chicken broth, and butter. To deepen the flavor, take your time to allow the wine to reduce slightly before adding the broth. This will help concentrate the wine’s natural sweetness and create a more complex sauce. Simmering the sauce after adding the cream allows the flavors to meld together and thicken to a silky consistency.

Balance the Sweetness and Savory Notes
Taste the sauce as it cooks and adjust the seasoning. If it’s too sweet, add a touch more chicken broth or a splash of dry Marsala to balance it out. If it’s too salty, a bit more cream can help tone it down. A pinch of freshly cracked black pepper at the end also helps enhance the dish’s savory elements.

How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Marsala

Now that you’ve perfected your Chicken Marsala, it’s time to think about how to serve it. This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas for the perfect presentation:

Classic Italian Side Dishes
Chicken Marsala is a rich and hearty dish, so pairing it with light, refreshing sides will balance out the flavors. Consider serving it with:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect vehicle for soaking up the Marsala sauce. The potatoes’ richness complements the savory chicken and sauce.
• Pasta: A side of pasta, such as fettuccine or spaghetti, is an excellent option for a more traditional Italian meal. Toss the pasta in a little olive oil or butter to enhance the flavor.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed green beans or asparagus provide a crisp contrast to the creamy sauce and tender chicken.

Garnishing with Fresh Herbs
Garnish your Chicken Marsala with freshly chopped parsley to add a burst of color and freshness to the dish. The herbs also provide a light, bright contrast to the rich flavors of the sauce.

Wine Pairing Suggestions
For a perfect wine pairing, you can’t go wrong with a glass of Marsala wine, but if you’re looking for something different, try a medium-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir or Chianti. The fruit-forward notes in these wines will complement the sweetness of the Marsala sauce and the savory flavors of the chicken.

Creative Presentation Ideas
For a more elegant presentation, consider serving the Chicken Marsala on a platter with a drizzle of sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. You can also arrange the chicken over a bed of pasta or mashed potatoes, ensuring that each serving is generously topped with the sauce and mushrooms.

Can You Make Olive Garden Chicken Marsala Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can absolutely make Olive Garden’s Chicken Marsala ahead of time! This dish actually holds up quite well when prepared in advance, making it a great option for busy days or special occasions where you want to save time. Here’s how to do it:

How to Make Chicken Marsala Ahead of Time
To make Chicken Marsala ahead of time, you’ll want to follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season and sear the chicken breasts as usual, but stop before making the sauce. After searing, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to cool. Once cooled, cover the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day.
2. Prepare the Sauce: You can also make the Marsala wine sauce in advance. Cook the mushrooms, garlic, and sauce as directed, but stop before adding the heavy cream. Let the sauce cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate.

Reheating and Serving
When you’re ready to serve the dish, simply:

1. Reheat the sauce in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Once the sauce is warm, add the chicken back into the pan and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
3. Add the cream at the end to finish the sauce, stirring to incorporate.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then serve with your preferred sides.

Making Chicken Marsala ahead of time not only saves you time on the day of serving but also allows the flavors to meld together, making the dish even more delicious.

Why You Should Try Making Chicken Marsala at Home

There are plenty of reasons why you should try making Olive Garden’s Chicken Marsala at home. Here are just a few:

Enjoy Restaurant-Quality Flavor at Home
Making Chicken Marsala at home means you can recreate that signature Olive Garden flavor without ever having to leave your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and a little attention to detail, you can enjoy a dish that’s just as delicious (if not better) than what you’d get at the restaurant.

Customize the Dish to Your Taste
When you make Chicken Marsala at home, you have full control over the ingredients and flavors. Want a sauce that’s a little richer? Add more cream. Prefer a less sweet Marsala wine flavor? Opt for dry Marsala. You can adjust the recipe to fit your personal preferences and dietary needs.

Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, Chicken Marsala is the perfect meal to serve. It’s elegant enough for dinner parties but simple enough to prepare on a busy evening. The versatility of this dish makes it a great go-to for any occasion.

Save Money
Dining out can get expensive, especially when ordering restaurant-quality dishes. By making Chicken Marsala at home, you’ll save money without sacrificing flavor. Plus, this recipe can feed multiple people, making it a great option for family dinners or gatherings.

Savor the Freshness
When you cook Chicken Marsala from scratch, you’re ensuring that you’re using fresh, high-quality ingredients. From the tender chicken to the vibrant mushrooms and aromatic Marsala wine, each bite will be bursting with freshness and flavor.

Conclusion

Olive Garden’s Chicken Marsala is a rich, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a decadent Marsala wine sauce. Whether you’re looking to recreate the experience of dining out or simply want to impress your family and friends with a homemade meal, this recipe will not disappoint. With a few simple ingredients and some careful technique, you can enjoy this restaurant-quality dish right at home.

By following the step-by-step instructions, applying a few helpful tips, and customizing the recipe to your taste, you’ll soon master the art of making Chicken Marsala. From choosing the right wine to perfecting the sauce, every detail comes together to create a comforting and elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

So, next time you’re craving a delicious, restaurant-style meal, skip the takeout and give this homemade Chicken Marsala recipe a try—you won’t regret it!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for Chicken Marsala?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used as an alternative to chicken breasts. Thighs are a bit more flavorful and juicier due to their higher fat content. If you choose thighs, be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly since they may take a bit longer to cook through than breasts.

2. Can I make Chicken Marsala with a different type of wine?
While Marsala wine is essential for the classic flavor, you can substitute it with a dry sherry or a dry white wine in a pinch. However, using a non-Marsala wine will result in a slightly different flavor profile, so it may not taste exactly like the original Olive Garden dish.

3. Can I make Chicken Marsala ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare both the chicken and the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, and when ready to serve, reheat the sauce and add the chicken back in to warm through before finishing with the cream.

4. Can I freeze Chicken Marsala?
While Chicken Marsala can be frozen, the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon reheating. If you plan to freeze it, do so before adding the cream. Once thawed, reheat the dish and stir in the cream just before serving for the best texture.

5. What can I serve with Chicken Marsala?
Chicken Marsala pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta (like fettuccine or spaghetti), or even a side of roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans or asparagus. The creamy sauce also goes well with fresh bread to soak up every last drop!