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
Scale
- 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!
Notes
- 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.