Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gourmet Chicken Marsala with Mushroom Medley?
It is an elevated dinner dish featuring succulent chicken breasts sautéed and topped with a savory sauce made from Marsala wine, chicken broth, fresh mushrooms, and melted cheeses.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to provide 4 servings.
What type of wine is required for the sauce?
The recipe calls for Marsala wine to create the signature rich and savory sauce.
How should the chicken breasts be prepared before cooking?
The chicken breasts should be cut in half lengthwise, flattened to about 1/8 inch thickness using a meat mallet, and then lightly dredged in flour.
What is the purpose of dredging the chicken in flour?
Dredging the chicken in flour helps to create a golden brown crust when sautéing and aids in thickening the Marsala sauce.
How long should I sauté the mushrooms?
Sauté the sliced mushrooms in melted butter for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C).
How long does the dish need to bake?
The dish should bake uncovered for 20 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
Can I brown the cheese on top of the chicken?
Yes, you can broil the dish for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking for a beautifully browned top.
What size baking dish is recommended?
A 13x9 inch baking dish is recommended for this recipe.
What cheeses are used in this Chicken Marsala recipe?
This recipe uses a combination of shredded mozzarella cheese and freshly grated parmesan cheese.
How do I make the Marsala reduction sauce?
Bring the Marsala wine and chicken broth to a boil in the skillet with pan drippings, then simmer uncovered for about 8 minutes until reduced by half.
How much butter is needed for the entire recipe?
The recipe uses a total of 2 tablespoons for mushrooms and an additional 1/3 cup divided for sautéing the chicken.
What kind of mushrooms should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of fresh sliced mushrooms.
What is the recommended thickness for the chicken?
The chicken pieces should be flattened to a thickness of approximately 1/8 inch.
Can I use chicken broth as a substitute for wine?
The recipe uses both; however, Marsala wine is the primary flavor profile. If you omit it, the flavor will change significantly.
What garnish is used in this dish?
Freshly chopped green onions are mixed with the cheese and sprinkled over the top before baking.
How long do I cook the chicken in the skillet?
Sauté the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown before transferring to the baking dish.
Should I cover the dish while it is in the oven?
No, the instructions specify baking the dish uncovered.
Is the parmesan cheese supposed to be fresh?
Yes, the recipe suggests using 1/2 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best results.
What seasoning is added to the sauce?
The sauce is seasoned with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/8 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
How do I handle the pan drippings?
Reserve the pan drippings in the skillet after sautéing the chicken to use as the base for the Marsala and broth reduction.
Can I use frozen mushrooms?
Fresh mushrooms are recommended for the best texture and flavor medley, but frozen may be used if thawed and drained well.
What are the tags associated with this recipe?
Tags include chicken marsala, gourmet recipe, mushroom dish, family dinner, italian cuisine, elegant meals, and cheesy chicken.
How do I know when the sauce is ready?
The sauce is ready once it has simmered and reduced by half its original volume.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, mozzarella can be pre-shredded, but freshly grated parmesan is recommended for better melting and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for a dinner party?
Yes, its 'Gourmet' description and elegant presentation make it perfect for special gatherings.
What do I do if the chicken pieces are too large for the dish?
The instructions suggest overlapping the edges of the chicken if necessary to fit them into the 13x9 inch dish.
Should the butter for the mushrooms be melted first?
Yes, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat before adding the mushrooms to the skillet.
How many pieces of chicken are used?
The recipe uses 4-6 pieces of boneless skinless chicken breasts.