Chicken Marsala with Buttered Noodles

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Introduction:

Are you craving a comforting and savory meal that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than Chicken Marsala with Buttered Noodles. This classic dish features tender chicken smothered in a rich Marsala wine sauce, served over luscious buttered noodles for a satisfying and indulgent meal that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 1 and 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken tenders
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 and 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 and 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Marsala Sauce:

  • 2 Tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 shallots, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 8 ounces shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 and 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1 cup chicken bone broth
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup dry Marsala wine
  • 2 Tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

For the Buttered Noodles:

  • 1 pound egg noodles
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 Tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

  1. For the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine flour and all seasonings. Dredge chicken in flour mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Set aside on a clean plate. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil until shimmering. Add chicken and cook for 3 minutes on each side. Transfer to a clean plate.
  2. For the Marsala Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter. Add shallots and mushrooms, cooking until caramelized, about 20 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Whisk in Marsala wine, scraping up any brown bits. In a separate container, mix cornstarch with chicken bone broth, then slowly add to the pan. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 5-6 minutes. Return chicken to the pan, simmering for an additional 2 minutes.
  3. For the Buttered Noodles: Cook egg noodles according to package instructions, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Drain noodles and return to pot. Add butter, garlic, and reserved pasta water, tossing until butter is melted. Sprinkle with parsley.
  4. Serve: Serve chicken and sauce over buttered noodles, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

  1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, garnish each plate of Chicken Marsala with Buttered Noodles with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and added freshness.
  2. Serve with Crusty Bread: Accompany the dish with slices of warm crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious Marsala sauce and complement the flavors of the meal.
  3. Pair with a Side Salad: Serve the Chicken Marsala and Buttered Noodles alongside a crisp garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a balanced and refreshing accompaniment.
  4. Add a Vegetable Side: Round out the meal with a side of steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or sautéed spinach for added nutrients and texture.
  5. Offer Grated Parmesan: Place a bowl of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on the table for guests to sprinkle over their Chicken Marsala and Buttered Noodles for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover Chicken Marsala with Buttered Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the dish has cooled completely before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation.
  2. Reheating: To reheat the leftovers, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the noodles have absorbed some of the sauce, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up while reheating.
  3. Freezing: While the Chicken Marsala and Buttered Noodles can be frozen, it’s best to freeze them separately to maintain the integrity of the textures. Place the chicken and sauce in one container and the buttered noodles in another. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  4. Meal Prep: Consider preparing a larger batch of Chicken Marsala and Buttered Noodles and portioning them into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just remember to store them properly in the refrigerator and consume within a few days.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Chicken Marsala with Buttered Noodles whenever the craving strikes, whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a quick and satisfying lunch option.

Variations of Chicken Marsala with Buttered Noodles:
  1. Creamy Mushroom Marsala: Add a touch of cream to the Marsala sauce for a richer and creamier version of the dish. Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream just before serving to create a luxurious sauce.
  2. Chicken Marsala Pasta Bake: Combine the chicken Marsala and buttered noodles in a baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden for a comforting pasta bake.
  3. Vegetarian Mushroom Marsala: Replace the chicken with sliced portobello mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian twist on the classic dish. Sauté the mushrooms or tofu until golden brown before adding them to the Marsala sauce.
  4. Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Marsala: Add wilted spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the Marsala sauce for a burst of color and flavor. Stir in the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes just before serving to keep them vibrant and tender.
  5. Garlic Herb Chicken Marsala: Infuse the chicken with extra flavor by adding minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil to the pan while cooking. The garlic and herbs will impart a fragrant aroma and depth of flavor to the dish.
  6. Lemon Chicken Marsala: Brighten up the dish with a splash of fresh lemon juice and zest. Add the lemon juice and zest to the Marsala sauce just before serving for a citrusy twist that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
  7. Caprese Chicken Marsala: Top the chicken with slices of fresh mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves during the last few minutes of cooking for a Caprese-inspired twist. The melted cheese and juicy tomatoes add a burst of freshness to the dish.
  8. Spicy Chicken Marsala: Add a kick of heat to the dish by stirring in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the Marsala sauce. Adjust the amount of spice according to your preference for a fiery and flavorful variation.
  9. Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Marsala: Create a decadent entrée by stuffing the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and cheese before searing and simmering in the Marsala sauce. The stuffed chicken breasts are elegant and impressive, perfect for special occasions.
  10. Pesto Chicken Marsala: Stir in a dollop of homemade or store-bought pesto sauce to the Marsala sauce for a burst of vibrant flavor. The basil, garlic, and pine nut pesto add a deliciously herbal and nutty dimension to the dish.

FAQ’s:

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken tenders? Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of chicken tenders. Simply slice the chicken breast into thin cutlets to ensure even cooking.

2. Can I substitute Marsala wine with another type of wine? While Marsala wine is traditional for this dish, you can substitute it with a dry white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc if needed. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile may vary slightly.

3. Can I make this dish without alcohol? Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version of Chicken Marsala by omitting the Marsala wine and increasing the amount of chicken broth or stock in the sauce.

4. Can I use different types of mushrooms? Absolutely! You can use any variety of mushrooms you prefer or have on hand. Cremini, shiitake, button mushrooms, or a combination of different mushrooms all work well in this dish.

5. Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by substituting the butter with olive oil or dairy-free margarine. You can also omit the buttered noodles and serve the chicken and sauce over cooked rice or quinoa.

6. Can I make this dish gluten-free? Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for dredging the chicken. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients used, such as chicken broth and seasonings, are gluten-free.

7. Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, you can prepare the components of this dish in advance. You can bread the chicken and slice the mushrooms ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the dish just before serving to ensure freshness and optimal flavor.

8. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftover Chicken Marsala for future meals. Store the cooled leftovers in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, and they will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

9. Can I serve this dish with other side dishes? Absolutely! Chicken Marsala pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

10. Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the dish? Yes, you can adjust the level of spiciness in the dish by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper or black pepper used in the seasoning for the chicken. Adjust according to your taste preferences for a mild or spicy version of Chicken Marsala.

Conclusion:

Indulge in the rich flavors of Chicken Marsala with Buttered Noodles, a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether enjoyed for a cozy dinner at home or served to guests at a special gathering, this savory and satisfying meal is guaranteed to impress.

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