Stuffed Chicken Marsala: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish
Description
This delightful Stuffed Chicken Marsala recipe, courtesy of Sara Moulton, former editor of Gourmet Magazine, brings an elegant touch to a family-favorite. The combination of tender chicken breasts stuffed with savory prosciutto and melted Fontina cheese, sautéed with earthy mushrooms, and then bathed in a rich Marsala wine sauce, makes for a dish that’s both comforting and luxurious. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. In just under 40 minutes, you’ll create a restaurant-quality meal that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
Recipe Details
- Category: Chicken Breast
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Serving Size: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Rating: 5 stars (1 review)
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this savory Stuffed Chicken Marsala:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 6 pieces |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
| Fresh thyme | 1 teaspoon |
| Prosciutto | 6 slices |
| Fontina cheese | 6 slices |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup |
| Canola oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Marsala wine | 1/2 cup |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| All-purpose flour (for thickening) | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 613.8 kcal |
| Fat | 26.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Cholesterol | 135.2 mg |
| Sodium | 570 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 5.3 g |
| Protein | 43.2 g |
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your perfect Stuffed Chicken Marsala:
-
Prepare the Chicken:
Start by cutting a pocket into each chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through the breast. Season the inside of each pocket with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme. -
Stuff the Chicken:
Stuff each chicken breast with a slice of prosciutto and a slice of Fontina cheese. The prosciutto will add a delicious saltiness, while the Fontina will melt beautifully inside the chicken. -
Coat the Chicken:
Lightly dip each stuffed chicken breast into flour, ensuring an even coating. This will help the chicken develop a nice golden crust while cooking. -
Sauté the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the canola oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan and sauté them for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown on both sides. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. -
Sauté the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary and then add the mushrooms. Sauté on high heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the mushrooms are browned and their liquid begins to release. This will help deglaze the pan, picking up any flavorful bits left from the chicken. -
Create the Sauce:
Pour in the Marsala wine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, reducing the wine by half, which will intensify its flavor. -
Simmer the Chicken:
Add the chicken stock to the skillet and return the browned chicken breasts to the pan. Let everything simmer together for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). -
Make the Buerre Manie (Thickening Agent):
To thicken the sauce, create a buerre manie by mixing the butter and flour together in a small bowl. Whisk this mixture into the simmering sauce and cook for 2-3 more minutes until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. -
Serve:
Once the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened, transfer the chicken breasts to a serving platter. Spoon the rich mushroom and Marsala sauce over the top, and serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Flour Coating: Make sure to lightly dust the chicken breasts with flour. This will help achieve that crispy, golden exterior, while still keeping the inside tender and juicy.
- Marsala Wine: Use a good-quality Marsala wine for the best flavor. A dry Marsala is typically preferred for savory dishes like this.
- Add Fresh Herbs: If you have extra thyme or another fresh herb on hand, feel free to sprinkle it over the chicken for a burst of fresh flavor.
Conclusion
This Stuffed Chicken Marsala is a perfect blend of flavors—crispy, tender chicken, savory prosciutto, creamy Fontina, and a luscious Marsala wine sauce. It’s a dish that can be made on any weeknight but also elegant enough for special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and always delicious. Pair it with some roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad, and you’ll have a meal that feels like a celebration! Enjoy every bite of this delicious dish.
Keywords: Stuffed Chicken Marsala, Chicken Breast, Marsala Wine, Prosciutto, Fontina Cheese, Chicken Recipe, Quick Dinner, Under 60 Minutes
