Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish known for its rich, savory sauce and tender chicken. Traditionally made with flour for thickening, this recipe offers a delicious gluten-free alternative, perfect for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, without sacrificing any of the flavor. This guide will walk you through each step, answering common questions along the way.
What Makes This Chicken Marsala Gluten-Free?
The key to a successful gluten-free Chicken Marsala lies in replacing the traditional flour-based thickening agent. In this recipe, we'll use a cornstarch slurry. Cornstarch provides a similar thickening effect to flour without the gluten. We'll also ensure all other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish safe and satisfying for everyone.
What are the ingredients for Gluten-Free Chicken Marsala?
This recipe yields 4 servings.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick slices
- 1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour (or cornstarch, see note below)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup gluten-free chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry Marsala wine (look for a brand that specifies gluten-free if needed)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Note: While gluten-free flour blends can work, for optimal thickening, using cornstarch directly is recommended. If using gluten-free flour, ensure it's certified gluten-free.
How to Make Gluten-Free Chicken Marsala: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. If using gluten-free flour, dredge the chicken in it. If using cornstarch, proceed directly to the pan-searing step.
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Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened and lightly browned.
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Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce slightly, about 1 minute.
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Make the Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
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Thicken the Sauce: Pour the cornstarch slurry into the skillet with the mushrooms and wine. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
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Add the Chicken and Butter: Return the chicken to the skillet. Stir in the butter and chicken broth. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through and the sauce to coat it evenly.
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Garnish and Serve: Stir in the fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Can I use a different type of wine?
While Marsala wine is traditional, you can experiment with other dry white wines, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. However, the flavor profile will differ slightly. Remember to check for gluten-free certifications if you have severe sensitivities.
How do I store leftover Gluten-Free Chicken Marsala?
Leftover Chicken Marsala can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What sides pair well with Gluten-Free Chicken Marsala?
This dish pairs perfectly with many sides, including:
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Choose your favorite gluten-free pasta shape.
- Rice: Plain white rice or wild rice are excellent choices.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting contrast to the rich sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add freshness and color.
Is Chicken Marsala healthy?
Chicken Marsala can be part of a healthy diet, especially when prepared with lean chicken breast and plenty of vegetables. However, the richness of the sauce and the use of butter should be considered when managing calorie intake.
This recipe provides a delicious and easy way to enjoy the classic flavors of Chicken Marsala while adhering to a gluten-free diet. Enjoy!
