Valentine’s Day Chicken Marsala

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to 1/4-inch thickness  
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
• For the Sauce:
  • 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 shallot, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry Marsala wine
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
2. Sear the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
   • Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms:
   • In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
   • Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Add the minced shallot and garlic, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Create the Sauce:
   • Pour the Marsala wine into the skillet and bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
   • Reduce the heat and simmer for 1-2 minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate.
   • Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Simmer the Chicken:
   • Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet and simmer gently until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Finish and Serve:
   • Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with your choice of side dish, such as pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Tips & Variations:

• For a richer sauce: Add a tablespoon of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end.
• Add flavor: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or dried oregano to the flour mixture.
• Substitute vegetables: Use a mixture of mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, oyster) or add spinach or kale to the sauce.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Valentine’s Day Chicken Marsala!