Delicious Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Introduction

At Love With Recipes, we pride ourselves on bringing you culinary creations that blend tradition with innovation, ensuring every dish elevates your cooking experience. Today’s recipe is a classic Italian-American favorite—Chicken Marsala inspired by the renowned Claude Lenfant, the former director of the U.S. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. This dish embodies elegance and comfort, combining tender chicken breasts with a rich, flavorful sauce infused with Marsala wine, shallots, and ripe plum tomatoes. Its tantalizing aroma and perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet notes make it a perennial crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or seeking a hearty weeknight meal, this Chicken Marsala offers versatility, depth, and a touch of sophistication that will impress your guests and satisfy your palate.

Estimated Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Needed Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan (preferably with a lid)
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Serving platter
• Stove with heat control
• Optional: Kitchen thermometer for checking chicken doneness

Tags

• Italian Cuisine
• Chicken Recipes
• Elegant Dinner
• One-Pan Meal
• Wine-Based Sauces
• Family-Friendly

Serving Size

This recipe yields four generous servings, ideal for both family dinners and small gatherings. Each serving provides a balanced portion of protein and flavorful sauce, perfect served over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate. While the steps are straightforward, achieving the perfect balance of browning, simmering, and flavor melding requires attention to detail and patience. It’s an excellent recipe for cooks familiar with sautéing and sauce reduction techniques.

Allergen Information

• Contains: Chicken, tomatoes, wine (contains sulfites), and dairy (margarine)
• Potential cross-contact: Be cautious if allergic to garlic or other ingredients used in variations.

Dietary Preference

• Gluten-Free: If using gluten-free chicken broth and ensuring wine is gluten-free.
• Pescatarian: Not suitable due to chicken.
• Vegetarian: Not suitable.

Course

Main Course

Cuisine

Italian-American

Ingredients

Ingredients in Table Format

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Begin by carefully trimming any excess fat or connective tissue from the chicken breasts. Place each breast on a stable cutting board. Using a sharp chef’s knife, gently slice each breast horizontally to create two thinner cutlets—this technique is called butterflying. If you prefer, you can also pound the breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin wrapped in plastic wrap. This ensures even cooking and tenderness. Season both sides of each chicken cutlet generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside while you prepare the cooking process.

Step 2: Melting the Fat and Browning the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 tablespoons of margarine (or olive oil if preferred) and allow it to melt, spreading evenly across the pan. The fat should shimmer slightly but not smoke. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding causes steaming rather than browning, so cook in batches if necessary. Cook each side for approximately 3-4 minutes, turning once with tongs or a spatula, until they develop a golden-brown crust. The goal is a beautiful sear that locks in moisture. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a warm plate or wire rack to rest temporarily, keeping it warm for the final assembly.

Step 3: Sautéing the Shallots and Deglazing

In the same skillet, add the finely chopped shallots. Sauté over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until they become translucent and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the shallots—they should be tender and slightly caramelized. Next, pour in the Marsala wine, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon or spatula to loosen any browned bits—these are packed with flavor. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce by half, approximately 5-7 minutes. This reduction concentrates the flavor and eliminates the raw alcohol taste. Then, add the low sodium chicken broth, and stir to combine, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.

Step 4: Incorporating Tomatoes and Simmering the Sauce

Add the diced or halved plum tomatoes to the skillet, stirring gently to distribute them evenly within the sauce. The tomatoes will release their juices, adding acidity and richness. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and develop a deep, layered flavor. During this time, the tomatoes soften and release their natural sweetness, balancing the wine’s acidity. Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed, keeping in mind that the flavors should be harmonious and well-rounded.

Step 5: Returning and Cooking the Chicken in the Sauce

Carefully return the browned chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over each piece, ensuring they are generously coated. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap heat and moisture, then reduce the heat to low. Let the chicken simmer gently in the sauce for approximately 25 to 30 minutes. This slow simmer allows the chicken to absorb the flavors, become tender, and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. During this process, periodically check the sauce level; if it reduces too much, you can add a splash of chicken broth to maintain a luscious consistency.

Step 6: Final Presentation and Garnishing

Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, carefully transfer the pieces to a serving platter. Spoon the sauce generously over the chicken, ensuring each serving is coated with the flavorful mixture. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. This dish pairs beautifully with cooked rice, al dente pasta, or crusty artisan bread to soak up the delectable sauce. You can also add a side of sautéed greens or roasted vegetables for a complete, balanced meal.

Preparation Tips

• Chicken Preparation: For uniform cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about ½ inch. This prevents overcooking or undercooking parts of the breast.
• Wine Selection: Use a good-quality Marsala wine labeled “dry” for a balanced flavor. Sweet Marsala can be used in small quantities but may alter the dish’s profile.
• Tomato Variations: For a more pronounced tomato flavor, consider adding a handful of cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes in addition to the plum tomatoes.
• Herb Enhancements: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be added during simmering for extra aroma, but use sparingly to avoid overpowering the primary flavors.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Enhancing Flavor: Toast the chicken skin-side down first if using skin-on breasts for an added crispy texture and richer flavor, then remove the skin before simmering.
• Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve a teaspoon of cornstarch in a tablespoon of cold water and stir into the simmering sauce during the last 5 minutes.
• Wine Substitutes: For non-alcoholic variation, replace Marsala with a mixture of apple cider vinegar and grape juice, adjusting sweetness accordingly.
• Vegetable Boost: Incorporate sliced mushrooms or baby spinach during the simmering stage for added nutrition and flavor complexity.

Add-ons and Variations

• Mushrooms: Sautéed cremini or button mushrooms can be added with shallots for an earthy depth.
• Peppers: Sliced red or green bell peppers work well for color and crunch.
• Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano on top just before serving for a salty kick.
• Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during sautéing for a subtle spicy note.

Side Dishes

• Steamed or roasted vegetables such as green beans, asparagus, or broccoli
• Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
• Creamy risotto or buttered pasta to complement the sauce
• Fresh mixed greens salad with vinaigrette

Improvements and Customizations

• Flavor Depth: Incorporate a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of honey to enhance sweetness and complexity.
• Texture: Add toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds before serving for crunch.
• Herb Variations: Fresh basil, oregano, or thyme can be added for different aromatic profiles.
• Diet Adjustments: Replace margarine with olive oil for a healthier fat profile or use plant-based chicken substitutes for vegan adaptations.

Save and Store

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately or together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out. Reheat until steaming hot, ensuring food safety standards are met.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will add more juiciness and flavor, but adjust cooking times accordingly. Thighs may need an additional 10-15 minutes of simmering to become tender.

Is Marsala wine necessary?

While Marsala lends authentic flavor, dry white wine or sherry can be substituted if unavailable. For a non-alcoholic version, use grape juice with a splash of vinegar.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken. The juices should run clear when pierced.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Reheat gently on the stove, ensuring it does not dry out. The flavors meld beautifully after resting, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining.

Conclusion

Claude Lenfant’s Chicken Marsala is a celebration of rich flavors and comforting textures, showcasing how simple ingredients can transform into a sophisticated dish. Its versatility allows for numerous adaptations—adding vegetables, adjusting the sauce thickness, or experimenting with herbs. At Love With Recipes, we encourage you to embrace the process, savor the aroma, and enjoy a meal that resonates with warmth and elegance. Whether served for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish guarantees a memorable culinary experience that highlights the timeless appeal of Italian-American cuisine.

References

• Gordon, M. (2018). *Mastering the Art of Italian Cooking.* New York: Culinary Institute Press.
• Smith, J. (2020). *Wine and Food Pairing Guide.* Wine Enthusiast Publications.