Are you looking for a cozy and satisfying meal that brings together the best of classic Italian-American flavors? This Chicken Marsala Casserole combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy Marsala wine sauce in one comforting, baked dish. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner, this casserole promises warmth, flavor, and a delightful dining experience. Let’s dive into how to make this beloved recipe at home!
Introduction to Chicken Marsala Casserole
Chicken Marsala is a cherished Italian-American dish known for its rich, earthy flavors of Marsala wine and mushrooms. Typically a restaurant favorite, we’re bringing these flavors home with an easy-to-make casserole version. In this recipe, you’ll find how tender chicken, hearty mushrooms, and nutty brown rice harmonize with a creamy Marsala sauce, creating a baked delight that’s both comforting and flavorful. This casserole makes for a delightful main course, perfect for sharing and even better as leftovers!
Ingredients for Chicken Marsala Casserole
To create this comforting Chicken Marsala Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 16 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1½ tablespoons flour
- ½ cup Marsala wine (or substitute with white wine)
- ½ cup fat-free half & half
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or stock
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice
- 2 cups coarsely chopped cooked chicken (about 1½ cups shredded cooked chicken)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of half & half.
- For a low-carb option, try using cauliflower rice.
How to Make Chicken Marsala Casserole – Step by Step
Step1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
Step2: Prepare the Marsala Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onions and sliced mushrooms, cooking until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add minced garlic, salt, and black pepper; cook for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute to eliminate any raw flour taste.
Step3: Add the Liquids
- Slowly pour in the Marsala wine, allowing it to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting the alcohol cook off and flavors develop.
- Stir in the fat-free half & half and continue cooking for 2 more minutes.
- Add the chicken broth, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
Step4: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the uncooked brown rice evenly in the bottom of the greased casserole dish.
- Top the rice with the chopped chicken.
- Pour the prepared mushroom and Marsala sauce over the chicken and rice.
- Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for added color and flavor.
Step5: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Check if the rice is tender; if not, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 10 minutes if necessary.
Step6: Final Touches
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Step7: Let It Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld together. Enjoy your creamy, comforting Chicken Marsala Casserole!
Helpful Tips for Chicken Marsala Casserole
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mushrooms, quality Marsala wine, and real Parmesan make a huge difference in flavor.
- Pre-cook the rice if in a hurry: To save time, cook the rice partially before assembling. Reduce the baking time accordingly.
- Customize the flavors: Add a pinch of thyme or rosemary to the sauce for added earthiness.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Marsala Casserole
- Sauce consistency: Ensure the Marsala sauce is thickened slightly before pouring over the casserole. This prevents the rice from becoming mushy.
- Rice variation: For a faster cooking time, use white rice, but remember it may cook faster than brown rice.
- Add more vegetables: Sautéed bell peppers or spinach can be added for more color and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Marsala Casserole
Serve this Chicken Marsala Casserole with a fresh green salad, crusty garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A glass of chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully, balancing the dish’s richness with a crisp, refreshing note.
Nutritional Information
Chicken Marsala Casserole provides a nutritious, balanced meal in a single dish. High in protein and fiber, thanks to chicken and brown rice, it’s a hearty meal without heavy cream. With an estimated 350 calories per serving, this recipe offers a balanced, wholesome option for your family.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
Storage and Leftovers for Chicken Marsala Casserole
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power to keep the chicken tender.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Chicken Marsala Casserole
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes! Prepare the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Bake as directed when ready.
- What can I use instead of Marsala wine?
- You can substitute with dry white wine or even chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
- Can I freeze Chicken Marsala Casserole?
- Yes, it freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as directed.
- What side dishes pair well with this casserole?
- Garlic bread, roasted asparagus, or a simple Caesar salad make great sides to complete the meal.
Related Recipes for Chicken Lovers
If you enjoyed this casserole, you’ll love these other comforting dishes! Check out Ultimate Cowboy Casserole with Cornbread for another hearty meal idea or try the Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix for a tasty appetizer that pairs well with casseroles.
Conclusion
We hope you love this Chicken Marsala Casserole as much as we do! It’s a warm, hearty, and flavorful way to bring restaurant-style Italian-American cuisine to your table. Try it out, and let us know your thoughts or any personal touches you add to make it uniquely yours. Bon appétit!
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Chicken Marsala Casserole – Comforting Italian-American Dish
Description
Are you looking for a cozy and satisfying meal that brings together the best of classic Italian-American flavors? This Chicken Marsala Casserole combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy Marsala wine sauce in one comforting, baked dish. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner, this casserole promises warmth, flavor, and a delightful dining experience. Let’s dive into how to make this beloved recipe at home!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 16 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1½ tablespoons flour
- ½ cup Marsala wine (or substitute with white wine)
- ½ cup fat-free half & half
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or stock
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice
- 2 cups coarsely chopped cooked chicken (about 1½ cups shredded cooked chicken)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of half & half.
- For a low-carb option, try using cauliflower rice.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Marsala Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onions and sliced mushrooms, cooking until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add minced garlic, salt, and black pepper; cook for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute to eliminate any raw flour taste.
Step 3: Add the Liquids
- Slowly pour in the Marsala wine, allowing it to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting the alcohol cook off and flavors develop.
- Stir in the fat-free half & half and continue cooking for 2 more minutes.
- Add the chicken broth, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the uncooked brown rice evenly in the bottom of the greased casserole dish.
- Top the rice with the chopped chicken.
- Pour the prepared mushroom and Marsala sauce over the chicken and rice.
- Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for added color and flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Check if the rice is tender; if not, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 10 minutes if necessary.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Step 7: Let It Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld together. Enjoy your creamy, comforting Chicken Marsala Casserole!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mushrooms, quality Marsala wine, and real Parmesan make a huge difference in flavor.
- Pre-cook the rice if in a hurry: To save time, cook the rice partially before assembling. Reduce the baking time accordingly.
- Customize the flavors: Add a pinch of thyme or rosemary to the sauce for added earthiness.
