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Hello and welcome, food lovers! Today, we’re diving into a recipe that combines comfort, flavor, and convenience: the Chicken Marsala Casserole. This dish takes the traditional flavors of classic Chicken Marsala and transforms them into a baked casserole, making it perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep. Get ready to bring the rich, savory taste of Marsala wine, tender chicken, and creamy cheese into your kitchen with this easy-to-follow Chicken Marsala Casserole recipe!

Introduction

The Chicken Marsala Casserole is a twist on the beloved Italian-American dish, Chicken Marsala. Known for its savory flavor from Marsala wine and mushrooms, this dish is both sophisticated and comfortingly simple. Our recipe combines the best of a creamy pasta bake and the classic Marsala sauce, making it an ideal choice for anyone who loves casseroles or pasta dishes. Fans of Italian flavors and casseroles will find this dish a delightful addition to their dinner rotations.

Ingredients 

To prepare this Chicken Marsala Casserole, you’ll need:

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup Marsala wine
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked penne pasta
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Breadcrumb Topping:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Substitutions:

• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
• You can substitute the mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese alternative if needed.

How to Make Chicken Marsala Casserole – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick, making it easy to serve.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Using the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion turns translucent. This brings out the aromatics that elevate the dish.

Step 4: Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes until they release moisture and start browning.

Step 5: Prepare the Marsala Sauce

Pour in the Marsala wine and chicken broth, and add dried thyme and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked penne pasta, browned chicken, and the Marsala mushroom mixture. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top.

Step 8: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

Step 9: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Your delicious Chicken Marsala Casserole is ready to serve!

Helpful Tips 

• Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and herbs add a significant flavor boost.
• Marsala Wine: For authentic taste, use quality Marsala wine.
• Pasta Tip: Undercook the pasta slightly, as it will cook further in the casserole, preventing it from becoming too soft.

Cooking Tips 

• High-Quality Cheese: For the best flavor, opt for freshly shredded mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Skillet Quality: A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking for the chicken and mushrooms.
• Baking Dish Size: A 9×13 inch dish works best to ensure even baking.

Serving Suggestions 

Serve this Chicken Marsala Casserole with:

• Side Salad: A fresh Caesar or mixed green salad complements the rich flavors.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread makes a perfect pairing.
• Wine: A glass of Marsala or dry white wine enhances the dish’s flavor.

Nutritional Information

The Chicken Marsala Casserole is a good source of protein and essential minerals from the mushrooms and chicken, while the cheese provides calcium.

Nutritional Info 

• Calories: 430
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Calcium: 15% of Daily Value

Storage and Leftovers 

Storing:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

To reheat, cover and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave until heated through. Add a sprinkle of extra cheese if desired for a fresher taste.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

• Yes! Assemble it and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake it just before serving.

2. Is there a substitute for Marsala wine?

• You can use dry sherry or a combination of grape juice and brandy as a substitute, though the flavor won’t be identical.

3. What pasta works best in this dish?

• Penne is ideal for casseroles, but rigatoni or fusilli are great options as well.

4. How do I make this gluten-free?

• Substitute gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this casserole gluten-free.

Related Recipes 

• Ultimate Cowboy Casserole: This hearty casserole combines ground beef, cornbread, and veggies for a cowboy-style feast.
• Chicken Jerusalem Recipe

  : A delicious chicken dish with artichokes and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, perfect for fans of comforting chicken dinners.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Chicken Marsala Casserole! It’s a wonderful way to bring classic Italian flavors into your home with a family-friendly twist. We’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to leave a comment or share your own variations on this dish. Enjoy your Chicken Marsala Casserole, and happy cooking!

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