Marsala Chicken Orzo Pasta

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes

This dish pairs golden seared chicken and earthy mushrooms with orzo, all nestled in a silky Marsala wine sauce. Everything comes together quickly in one pan, infusing the orzo pasta with rich flavor as it cooks. A splash of heavy cream at the finish gives velvety texture, while a scatter of fresh parsley adds brightness. Serve hot for a comforting meal that brings Italian-American warmth and depth to your table. The result is an elegant yet approachable dinner, ready in about 35 minutes with minimal cleanup.

Authored By Tyla
Updated on Wed, 28 May 2025 12:52:58 GMT
Une assiette de "Marsala Chicken Orzo" est servie sur une table. Save
Une assiette de "Marsala Chicken Orzo" est servie sur une table. | savorieswithtyla.com

This creamy Marsala chicken orzo is pure comfort in one skillet layered with tender chicken earthy mushrooms rich wine sauce and velvety cream all cozied up with orzo pasta Once you try it you will want it on your regular dinner rotation

I remember the first time I made this I had friends over and the skillet barely made it to the table before everyone dived in It is a dish that brings people together every time

Ingredients

  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Use high-quality chicken for the best tenderness and flavor Look for plump fresh pieces
  • Orzo pasta: This short pasta cooks quickly and becomes perfectly al dente in the sauce Opt for a brand that lists durum wheat on the label for better texture
  • Mushrooms, sliced: Adds earthy flavor and satisfying texture Choose fresh firm mushrooms and avoid slimy ones
  • Marsala wine: The signature ingredient with sweet depth Use a good quality dry Marsala for more complexity
  • Chicken broth: Creates the sauce base Use low sodium if you want more control over seasoning
  • Heavy cream: Makes the sauce silky and rich Look for cream with at least 35 percent fat for ultimate creaminess
  • Olive oil: For searing chicken Choose extra virgin for real flavor
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps brown the mushrooms Pick unsalted to better manage salt
  • Garlic, minced: Brightens the dish Use fresh minced garlic for strongest aroma
  • Dried thyme: Infuses fragrant herbal notes Opt for recently dried thyme since older herbs lose potency
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Do not skimp on seasoning Taste as you go
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: Finishes the dish with freshness Select vibrant green leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper Sit the chicken out for a few minutes to take the chill off Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering Place the chicken breasts in the skillet Let them cook undisturbed on each side for about six minutes until golden brown and cooked through If your chicken is thicker cover the skillet with a lid to help it cook inside Rest the cooked chicken on a plate tented loosely with foil to keep it juicy
Prepare the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet melt the butter over medium heat Add the sliced mushrooms Spread them out and let them cook for four to five minutes without moving so they get properly browned Stir and keep cooking until all the moisture releases and the mushrooms caramelize Add the minced garlic and dried thyme Stir constantly for one minute until everything smells fragrant and lovely
Deglaze with Marsala Wine:
Pour the Marsala wine into the skillet Scrape up the flavorful browned bits on the pan bottom with a wooden spoon Allow the wine to bubble for about two minutes until the alcohol smell fades and the sauce thickens a bit This is where all those savory flavors concentrate
Cook the Orzo:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer Stir in the orzo pasta Make sure the orzo is submerged and let it cook uncovered for about eight to ten minutes until tender but still a little firm Stir every couple of minutes to keep the orzo from sticking to the bottom
Finish the Dish:
Turn the heat to low Pour in the heavy cream stirring gently until the sauce is creamy and smooth Taste and adjust with extra salt or pepper if needed Return the cooked chicken to the skillet nestling it into the sauce Let it warm through for a few minutes Spoon sauce over the chicken to keep every bite juicy
Serve:
Scatter chopped fresh parsley over the top for color and a fresh note Take the skillet straight to the table and serve hot
Une assiette de chicken Marsala Orzo. Save
Une assiette de chicken Marsala Orzo. | savorieswithtyla.com

My favorite part is always those golden mushrooms soaking up the wine and cream As a kid I loved sneaking a spoonful of the sauce before my mom called everyone to dinner This recipe never fails to bring back that anticipation

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely before storing Pop everything in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge up to three days Warm gently over low heat on the stove You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer richer meat For a lighter version use half-and-half instead of heavy cream If Marsala wine is hard to find dry sherry can pinch hit though the flavor will be slightly different

Serving Suggestions

Pair this with a crisp green salad or roasted green beans For a bigger meal serve with crusty bread to soak up every bit of sauce This dish works well with a glass of the same Marsala wine you use in the cooking

Une assiette de chicken Marsala Orzo. Save
Une assiette de chicken Marsala Orzo. | savorieswithtyla.com

Cultural Context

Marsala chicken is a signature Italian-American dish inspired by traditional Sicilian cooking Marsala wine hails from the port town of Marsala in Sicily and has long been a staple for both sipping and cooking This skillet dinner is a modern twist adding pasta for a full meal in one

Recipe Questions

→ What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook evenly and remain tender, but thighs can be substituted for a richer flavor.

→ Can I use a different wine besides Marsala?

Marsala adds distinctive taste, but dry sherry or a medium-bodied white wine can be used in a pinch for a similar effect.

→ How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?

Stir the orzo occasionally as it simmers to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking to the skillet bottom.

→ What mushrooms are recommended?

Creamy white or cremini mushrooms work well; you may also use baby bella mushrooms for a deeper flavor.

→ Is the heavy cream essential?

The cream delivers a luscious, smooth sauce. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or even evaporated milk.

Marsala Chicken Orzo Pasta

Chicken, mushrooms, and orzo combine in a creamy Marsala wine sauce for an irresistible one-pan meal.

Prep Duration
10 mins
Cooking Duration
25 mins
Overall Time
35 mins
Authored By: Tyla

Recipe Type: Main Dishes

Level of Difficulty: Moderate Challenge

Cuisine Type: Italian-American

Serves: 4 Portions (One skillet meal serving 4)

Diet Preferences: ~

What You Need

→ Protein

01 450 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts

→ Pasta and Grains

02 170 g orzo pasta

→ Vegetables

03 100 g mushrooms, sliced
04 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

→ Liquids

06 120 ml Marsala wine
07 240 ml chicken broth
08 120 ml heavy cream

→ Fats

09 2 tablespoons olive oil
10 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

→ Herbs and Spices

11 1 teaspoon dried thyme
12 Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make It

Step 01

Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely.

Step 02

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté for 4–5 minutes until deep golden brown. Incorporate minced garlic and dried thyme, stirring for 1 minute until aromatic.

Step 03

Pour Marsala wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Allow the wine to simmer for 2–3 minutes, reducing slightly.

Step 04

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in orzo and cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 05

Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling into the orzo. Warm through for 2–3 minutes. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 06

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot.

Important Notes

  1. Use a good-quality dry Marsala wine for optimal depth of flavor.
  2. Slice the chicken breasts in half for even cooking if they are especially thick.
  3. Add a splash of extra broth if the orzo absorbs liquid too quickly.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Large skillet
  • Sharp knife
  • Chopping board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon

Allergy Details

Always check the ingredients for allergens and consult an expert if necessary.
  • Contains dairy (heavy cream, butter)
  • Contains gluten (orzo pasta)

Nutritional Details (Each Serving)

This nutrition info is for reference only and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Calorie Count: 450
  • Total Fat: 18 grams
  • Total Carbs: 38 grams
  • Protein Content: 30 grams