Authentic Carrabba’s Chicken Marsala Recipe

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Chicken Marsala is an easy and delicious Italian dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of tender chicken breast, savory marsala wine, and flavorful marsala sauce creates a dish that is rich in taste and texture. Whether you want to recreate the famous Carrabba’s Chicken Marsala or try your own twist on this classic recipe, this article will guide you through the process.

How to Make Chicken Marsala Recipe at Home

Ingredients for Chicken Marsala

To make authentic Carrabba’s Chicken Marsala, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms
• 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 1 cup marsala wine
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Steps to Make Chicken Marsala

Follow these steps to make the perfect Chicken Marsala:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, and black pepper. Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned, about 4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the mushrooms and shallots. Cook until the mushrooms are lightly browned and the shallots are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour the marsala wine into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2 minutes, then add the chicken broth and cream. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve.

Tips for Perfecting the Chicken Marsala Recipe

Here are some tips to help you perfect your Chicken Marsala:

• Use large chicken breasts for this recipe to ensure even cooking.
• If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can add some cream to the sauce.
• For a more intense flavor, you can melt butter in the skillet before adding shallots and mushrooms.
• If you want to thicken the sauce further, you can make a slurry with cornstarch and water, then add it to the skillet.
• When simmering the marsala wine, be sure to remove it from the heat before adding the remaining ingredients.

How to Grill Chicken Marsala

Marinating the Chicken

If you prefer a grilled version of Chicken Marsala, you can marinate the chicken breasts before grilling. To do this, you will need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup marsala wine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

In a bowl, whisk together the marsala wine, olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Grilling Technique

To grill the marinated chicken breasts, follow these steps:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess liquid.
3. Grill the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

When serving grilled Chicken Marsala, you can add some sautéed mushrooms and shallots on top for extra flavor. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

Understanding Marsala Sauce

What is Marsala Wine

Marsala wine is a fortified wine that originates from Sicily, Italy. It is made from a variety of grapes and has a rich, sweet flavor. Marsala wine is a key ingredient in Chicken Marsala, as it adds depth and complexity to the dish.

Creating a Homemade Marsala Sauce

To make your own Marsala sauce, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup chopped shallots
• 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup marsala wine
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Follow these steps to create a delicious Marsala sauce:

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the shallots and mushrooms to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour the marsala wine into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2 minutes to reduce the alcohol content.
4. Add the chicken broth and simmer for 5 minutes to develop the flavors.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Adding Flavors to Marsala Sauce

If you want to enhance the flavors of your Marsala sauce, you can add additional ingredients such as fresh herbs (like parsley) or spices (like black pepper) to taste. Feel free to experiment and adjust the recipe according to your preferences.

Chicken Marsala Variations

Chicken Marsala with Prosciutto

A popular variation of Chicken Marsala is to add prosciutto to the dish. The salty flavor of the prosciutto pairs well with the sweet marsala sauce. To make Chicken Marsala with prosciutto, simply wrap thinly sliced prosciutto around each chicken breast before cooking.

Chicken Marsala with Shallots and Mushrooms

Another tasty variation of this dish is to include shallots and mushrooms in the marsala sauce. Sauté the shallots and mushrooms in butter before adding the marsala wine and remaining ingredients. The shallots and mushrooms will add a rich and earthy flavor to the sauce.

Chef’s Tips for Chicken Marsala

Here are some additional tips from professional chefs to elevate your Chicken Marsala:

• When cooking the chicken, make sure to pat it dry with a paper towel before dredging it in flour. This will help the flour adhere better to the chicken and create a crispy crust.
• For a restaurant-like presentation, place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and slice diagonally into thick pieces. Arrange the sliced chicken on a serving platter and pour the Marsala sauce over it.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water to the pan after adding the cream. Stir continuously until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
• Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning of your Marsala sauce before serving. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.

With these tips and variations, you can make a delicious and authentic Chicken Marsala that will impress your family and friends. Whether you choose to grill the chicken or make a homemade Marsala sauce, the result will be a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to become a favorite in your home.

So why wait? Gather the ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a taste of Italy with this Authentic Carrabba’s Chicken Marsala Recipe!

FAQ

Q: What is the Authentic Carrabba’s Chicken Marsala Recipe?

A: The Authentic Carrabba’s Chicken Marsala Recipe is a popular dish that is inspired by the Chicken Marsala served at Carrabba’s Italian Grill. It is a sauteed chicken dish cooked in a delicious Marsala wine sauce.

Q: How can I make the sauce in the recipe come out lighter?

A: To make the sauce in the recipe come out lighter, you can add a touch of cream and some parsley towards the end of cooking.

Q: What does “saute” mean in the recipe?

A: “Saute” means to cook food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over medium-high heat.

Q: Can I substitute ingredients in the Authentic Carrabba’s Chicken Marsala Recipe?

A: Yes, you can make substitutions in the recipe according to your preferences. However, keep in mind that it may alter the taste and overall outcome of the dish.

Q: How is the chicken prepared in the recipe?

A: The chicken in the recipe is prepared by making crisscross grill marks on each side. It gives the chicken a visually appealing presentation and adds texture.

Q: What is the best way to cook the sauce in the recipe?

A: The sauce in the recipe is best cooked in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Allow it to simmer for 5 minutes and then cover until needed.

Q: How long should I simmer the sauce in the recipe?

A: The sauce in the recipe should be simmered for an additional 5 minutes after bringing it to a boil. This helps to infuse the flavors and thicken the sauce slightly.

Q: How do I remove the chicken from heat in the recipe?

A: To remove the chicken from heat in the recipe, simply transfer it to a plate or container and set it aside until needed.

Q: What are some sides that go well with Carrabba’s Chicken Marsala?

A: Some sides that go well with Carrabba’s Chicken Marsala are sauteed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.