Olive Garden Stuffed Chicken Marsala: A Family Favorite

Introduction

When I first stumbled upon the recipe for Olive Garden Stuffed Chicken Marsala, I knew I had to give it a try. My family has always been a fan of Italian cuisine, and we often reminisce about our visits to Olive Garden. The creamy, rich flavors of their chicken marsala were always a highlight for us. I decided to recreate this delightful dish at home, and the results were nothing short of spectacular. The combination of tender chicken stuffed with a cheesy blend, enveloped in a luscious Marsala wine sauce, turned our dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience. My kids raved about it, and even my picky eater went back for seconds! It quickly became a staple in our household, and I couldn’t wait to share it with others.

Ingredients

Chicken:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup olive oil

Stuffing:

• ½ cup smoked shredded cheese (provolone or gouda)
• 8 oz. mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ cup plain breadcrumbs (can substitute panko)
• 1 teaspoon fresh garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, patted dry and roughly chopped
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
• 3/4 cup sour cream

Sauce:

• 1 yellow onion, sliced into strings
• 4 cups dry Marsala wine
• 8 oz. heavy cream
• 12 oz. button mushrooms

Instructions

1. Prepare the Stuffing: In a bowl, combine all stuffing ingredients and set aside.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Butterfly the Chicken: Slice into the thickest part of each chicken breast to create two lobes. Lay the chicken flat and cover with plastic wrap. Gently pound until thinned to about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
4. Stuff the Chicken: With the butterflied chicken laying flat, fill one side with the stuffing mixture and fold the other side over. Be careful not to over-stuff. Season the outside with salt and pepper and coat lightly in flour.
5. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each stuffed chicken breast until golden brown on both sides.
6. Bake the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and place in a baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and scrape up any drippings. Sauté for about 2 minutes, then add mushrooms and continue to sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
8. Deglaze the Pan: Add the Marsala wine to the skillet, bringing it to a light bubble. Allow it to reduce by half, intensifying the flavor as the sauce darkens.
9. Add the Cream: Temper the heavy cream by heating it in the microwave for 20 seconds. Slowly pour it into the pan and bring to a light bubble. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 more minutes, then remove from heat.
10. Serve: Once the sauce is rich and flavorful, serve it generously over the stuffed chicken. Pair with creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 600 calories
• Total Fat: 40g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Cholesterol: 160mg
• Sodium: 700mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 36g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve

• With Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes.
• Over Rice: Serve over a bed of rice for a lighter option.
• With Garlic Bread: Complement the dish with some warm garlic bread.
• Accompanied by a Salad: A fresh garden salad can lighten up the meal.
• Wine Pairing: A glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, enhances the flavors beautifully.

Additional Tips

1. Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
2. Customize the Stuffing: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the stuffing for extra flavor.
3. Watch Cooking Times: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffing and chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge until ready to cook.
5. Store Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.

Recipe Variations

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses in the stuffing, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique flavor.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach or kale into the stuffing for added nutrition.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this dish gluten-free.
• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the stuffing for a spicy version.
• Creamy Sauce Twist: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or spinach into the sauce for a different texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Festive Occasions: Perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties, serve on a large platter for a beautiful presentation.
• Leftover Transformations: Use leftovers to make a delicious chicken salad or pasta dish.
• Seasonal Sides: Pair with seasonal vegetables, such as roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the stuffed chicken before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

• Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well for this recipe.

1. What if I don’t have Marsala wine?

• You can substitute with a mix of dry sherry and grape juice or chicken broth.

1. Can I make this dish in advance?

• Yes, you can prepare the stuffing and chicken ahead of time and bake just before serving.

1. Is it necessary to butterfly the chicken?

• Yes, this technique allows for even cooking and better stuffing distribution.

1. Can I omit the mushrooms?

• Absolutely, you can leave them out if you’re not a fan.

1. How can I tell when the chicken is cooked?

• Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

1. What type of cheese is best for the stuffing?

• Provolone or gouda works well, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.

1. Can I use fresh herbs in the stuffing?

• Yes, fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add great flavor to the stuffing.

1. What should I serve on the side?

• Mashed potatoes, rice, or a green salad are great accompaniments.

1. How long does this dish take to prepare?
   • The total time is about 1 hour, including preparation and cooking.

Conclusion

Olive Garden Stuffed Chicken Marsala is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of a beloved restaurant meal right into your kitchen. The tender chicken filled with creamy, cheesy goodness and topped with a rich, flavorful Marsala sauce makes for a comforting and satisfying dinner. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. With easy-to-follow steps and variations to suit your taste, you can enjoy a taste of Italy from the comfort of your own home. Give it a try, and you may find it becoming a staple in your own household, just as it has in ours!

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