Looking for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that your family will love? This Chicken Marsala Casserole recipe takes the rich, savory flavors of traditional Chicken Marsala and turns it into a hearty, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian-American cuisine or simply looking for a new casserole dish to add to your dinner rotation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Keep reading to learn how to prepare this delicious meal step-by-step, along with helpful tips for substitutions, presentation ideas, and more!

What is Chicken Marsala Casserole?
Chicken Marsala is a beloved Italian-American dish made from pan-fried chicken cutlets, mushrooms, and a sweet Marsala wine sauce. This casserole version combines all those signature flavors in a baked, cheesy dish that’s easy to prepare and serve. It’s the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet, with a deep umami flavor from the mushrooms and Marsala wine. Plus, casseroles are a fantastic option for feeding a crowd or preparing meals ahead of time.
Now, let’s dive into everything you need to know to create this delicious Chicken Marsala Casserole at home.
Ingredients List for Chicken Marsala Casserole
Before we begin cooking, it's essential to gather all the ingredients you'll need for this Chicken Marsala Casserole recipe. Here’s a comprehensive list:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz. baby bella (or cremini) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ cups Marsala wine (sweet or dry, based on your preference)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 3 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoon butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredients List for the Marsala Sauce
The Marsala sauce is the heart of the dish, combining wine, broth, cream, and seasonings to create a rich, flavorful base. Here's what you'll need specifically for the sauce:
- 1 ½ cups Marsala wine
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup flour (for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients will ensure that your Chicken Marsala Casserole has a luxurious sauce that complements the chicken and mushrooms perfectly.
Substitutions and Variations
There are plenty of ways to customize this Chicken Marsala Casserole recipe to fit your tastes, dietary needs, or what you have available in your kitchen. Here are some common substitutions and variations:
- Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, you can easily substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Thighs offer a richer flavor and stay juicy during baking.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Non-Dairy Option: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy cream alternative if you're avoiding dairy. You can also use vegan cheese if needed.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the pasta and replace it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or extra mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Spicier Version: If you like a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some over the top before baking.
These modifications can help make the dish more inclusive for different dietary preferences and can also offer fun twists on the traditional recipe.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking Chicken Marsala Casserole is a straightforward process, and here’s a step-by-step guide to make sure you get it right:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or butter and set it aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened, then add the sliced mushrooms. Cook the mushrooms for 5-7 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
- Make the Marsala Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to coat. Slowly pour in the Marsala wine, chicken broth, and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add thyme, season with salt and pepper, and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir the cooked chicken into the Marsala sauce, then fold in the cooked pasta. If you want a cheesy texture throughout, stir in half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the chicken and Marsala mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. If you prefer a crispy topping, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Cook Chicken Marsala Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prep Time: Begin by chopping your onions, garlic, and mushrooms, and cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the Chicken: Brown the chicken until it’s golden, but don’t worry about cooking it all the way through—it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Sauté the Veggies: Onions, garlic, and mushrooms create the base flavor, so make sure they’re nicely browned before moving to the next step.
- Build the Sauce: Whisk in Marsala wine, chicken broth, and heavy cream for a rich sauce. Make sure to simmer to thicken.
- Mix and Bake: Combine all the cooked components, layer with cheese, and bake to perfection.
Following this guide ensures a smooth cooking experience, with no guesswork needed!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Since the chicken will finish cooking in the oven, avoid overcooking it in the skillet to ensure it remains juicy and tender.
- Not Thickening the Sauce: Make sure to cook the sauce until it thickens slightly before pouring it into the casserole dish. A watery sauce could lead to a soupy casserole.
- Skipping the Breadcrumbs: If you enjoy a crunchy texture, don’t skip the panko breadcrumbs. They add a satisfying crunch to balance out the creamy filling.
- Using Low-Quality Marsala Wine: Since Marsala wine is a key ingredient, using a high-quality bottle (sweet or dry, according to your preference) will significantly impact the flavor of the dish.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation is key when serving a delicious casserole, and there are several ways to make your Chicken Marsala Casserole look as amazing as it tastes:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the casserole before serving for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Serve in Individual Dishes: For a more elegant presentation, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small baking dishes.
- Add a Side Salad: A light arugula or spinach salad with a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
How to Serve Chicken Marsala Casserole
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that allow the flavors of the casserole to shine. Here are a few ideas:
- Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread is the perfect companion to soak up the delicious Marsala sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for added texture and flavor.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken Marsala Casserole
- Garnish with Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley on top brightens up the dish and adds a touch of elegance.
- Cheese Pull: Slice into the casserole at the table to show off the gooey, melty cheese. It's a mouthwatering moment everyone will enjoy.
Chicken Marsala Casserole Recipe Tips
- Prep in Advance: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
- Double the Recipe: If you're feeding a crowd, this recipe doubles easily. Use two 9x13-inch pans or one larger casserole dish.
- Use a Broiler: If you want an extra crispy, golden top, pop the casserole under the broiler for 2-3 minutes after baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I freeze Chicken Marsala Casserole?
Yes! Chicken Marsala Casserole freezes well. Make sure to cool it completely, wrap it tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole, refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, and bake it when you're ready.
3. What type of Marsala wine should I use?
You can use either sweet or dry Marsala wine based on your flavor preference. Sweet Marsala gives a slightly richer, deeper flavor, while dry Marsala is more subtle.
4. Can I make this dish without wine?
If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute the Marsala wine with extra chicken broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth.
Conclusion
This Chicken Marsala Casserole recipe is the perfect way to enjoy all the delicious flavors of Chicken Marsala in an easy, crowd-pleasing casserole format. With creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether you're serving it for a family meal, a potluck, or a holiday gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Don't forget to experiment with variations and substitutions to make it your own!
Give this recipe a try and discover a new favorite dish! Happy cooking!
PrintChicken Marsala Casserole Recipe
This Chicken Marsala Casserole recipe is a flavorful dish combining tender chicken, mushrooms, and a creamy Marsala wine sauce. It's an easy-to-make casserole that offers a perfect balance of rich and savory flavors. This recipe uses common ingredients like chicken breasts, garlic, onions, mushrooms, and Marsala wine to create a hearty meal. Follow the detailed instructions to prepare a delightful casserole the whole family will enjoy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts
- Garlic
- Onion
- Mushrooms
- Marsala wine
- Heavy cream
- Chicken broth
- Mozzarella cheese
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the chicken breasts in olive oil until browned, then remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms.
- Add Marsala wine, chicken broth, and heavy cream, cooking until the sauce thickens.
- Layer the chicken in a baking dish, pour the sauce over, and top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving. You can also substitute chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ of casserole
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
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