There’s something inherently comforting about a casserole. The combination of hearty ingredients, rich flavors, and the convenience of a one-dish meal makes it a staple in many households. The Chicken Marsala Casserole takes this comfort to a new level, combining the classic flavors of Chicken Marsala with the satisfying elements of a casserole. This dish is creamy, rich, and perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
I first encountered Chicken Marsala during a family trip to Italy. The rich, creamy sauce with its distinctive wine flavor paired beautifully with tender chicken and mushrooms, making it an unforgettable meal. When I returned home, I wanted to recreate that experience but with a twist that suited our busy lifestyle. Thus, the Chicken Marsala Casserole was born – all the deliciousness of the classic dish, but in a convenient, bake-and-serve format.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, diced
5 garlic cloves, minced
16 ounces mushrooms, sliced
1 1/2 tablespoons flour
1/2 cup Marsala wine (or white wine)
1/2 cup fat-free half & half
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or stock
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup brown rice, uncooked
2 packed cups coarsely chopped cooked chicken
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with non-stick spray to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat until just melted and combined.
Add the diced onion and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the mushrooms release their liquid, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture and stir to combine. Cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Add the Liquids:
Slowly pour in the Marsala wine (or white wine) and bring to a simmer. Allow the mixture to cook for about 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens.
Stir in the fat-free half & half and continue to simmer for another 2 minutes.
Add the chicken broth or stock, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture back to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is slightly thickened.
Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the uncooked brown rice evenly in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
Top the rice with the coarsely chopped cooked chicken, spreading it out evenly over the rice.
Pour the mushroom and sauce mixture over the chicken and rice, ensuring everything is well-covered.
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top of the casserole for a burst of color and flavor.
Bake the Casserole:
Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil to prevent the moisture from escaping.
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the casserole is bubbly.
If the rice is not fully cooked after 45 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and continue baking until the rice is done.
Finishing Touches:
Once the rice is fully cooked, remove the foil from the casserole dish.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to serve.
Scoop portions onto plates and enjoy the creamy, rich flavors of the Chicken Marsala Casserole.
Variations and Substitutions
Rice Options: If you prefer, you can use white rice instead of brown rice. If using white rice, cook the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes instead of 45 minutes.
Wine Substitute:Â If Marsala wine is not available, a dry white wine can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Vegetable Variations:Â Add other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
Protein Alternatives: Substitute the chicken with turkey or even shrimp for a different twist.
Conclusion
The Chicken Marsala Casserole is a delightful dish that combines the classic flavors of Chicken Marsala with the convenience of a casserole. The creamy, wine-infused sauce, tender chicken, and hearty rice make it a comforting meal that is sure to satisfy.
This recipe is appealing not only because of its delicious flavors but also because of its simplicity. With just a few steps and some time in the oven, you can have a meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.
So next time you’re in the mood for something comforting and flavorful, give this Chicken Marsala Casserole a try. It’s a guaranteed hit that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy!