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Marsala Chicken Orzo

A creamy, one-pan dinner featuring golden pan-seared chicken and earthy mushrooms nestled in rich Marsala-infused orzo pasta.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 580

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • 1 lb chicken breasts thinly sliced or cutlets
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour for dredging
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
Orzo & Sauce
  • 2 tbsp butter divided
  • 8 oz cremini mushrooms sliced
  • 1 shallot minced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 cup orzo pasta dry/uncooked
  • 0.5 cup Dry Marsala wine
  • 2.5 cups chicken broth
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Chef's Knife
  • Tongs
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Mix flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. Dredge chicken pieces in flour, shaking off excess.
  2. Heat oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 3-4 mins per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Add mushrooms and cook until browned (3-4 mins).
  4. Add shallots, garlic, and thyme. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in dry orzo and toast for 1 minute with the vegetables.
  6. Pour in Marsala wine to deglaze, scraping browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 2 minutes.
  7. Add chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook 8-10 mins, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
  8. Stir in heavy cream. Return chicken to the pan to heat through. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Notes

Use Dry Marsala, not Sweet, for the best savory flavor profile.