If you are looking for a dish that effortlessly combines creamy, savory comfort with a touch of Italian elegance, this Chicken Marsala Gnocchi Recipe is your soon-to-be favorite meal. Tender gnocchi swimming in a luscious Marsala wine and cream sauce, punctuated by earthy mushrooms and succulent shredded chicken, creates a symphony of flavors in every bite. Whether you want an impressive weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe is straightforward enough to whip up quickly while feeling truly special and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the secret to making this Chicken Marsala Gnocchi Recipe sing. Each item brings something essential to the table, from the rich depth of Marsala wine to the delicate pillowy texture of potato gnocchi, ensuring a perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity base and helps sauté the mushrooms and onions beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Brings that silky richness and helps create a decadent sauce.
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms (sliced): Adds an earthy, meaty flavor and lovely texture contrast.
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped): Offers a sweet savory note that balances the sauce perfectly.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with its unmistakable aroma and punch.
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Lends a gentle tang and depth to the sauce that elevates it.
- 1/2 cup Marsala wine: The star ingredient that gives this dish its signature rich and slightly sweet flavor.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Enhances savory richness and helps build the sauce’s body.
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: Creates a luxurious, creamy consistency that coats every gnocchi piece perfectly.
- 1.5 cups cooked/rotisserie chicken (shredded): Provides tender protein and soaks up all those lovely flavors.
- 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi: Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up the sauce wonderfully.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty finish to the creamy sauce.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, to taste): Adds a bright, fresh pop of color and flavor as a final flourish.
How to Make Chicken Marsala Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Mushrooms and Onions
Start by heating olive oil and butter in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until the butter melts and begins to foam. Add your sliced mushrooms and chopped onions to the skillet. This step is about creating a beautifully browned base with the mushrooms’ natural juices evaporating and onions turning tender and sweet. It takes about 10 to 12 minutes for them to achieve that perfect golden sear, which forms the foundation of the rich Marsala sauce.
Step 2: Incorporate Garlic and Dijon Mustard
Next, reduce the heat to medium and stir in the minced garlic and Dijon mustard. Cook this fragrant duo together for about 30 seconds, just long enough to release their wonderful aromas and incorporate their flavors without burning the garlic. This step adds a complex layer that will lift the overall taste of your Chicken Marsala Gnocchi Recipe.
Step 3: Add Marsala Wine, Broth, Cream, Gnocchi, and Chicken
Now pour in the Marsala wine, chicken broth, and heavy cream, then add uncooked gnocchi and shredded chicken. This combination will bubble and thicken, transforming into a silky, indulgent sauce. Let it simmer uncovered for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the gnocchi cooks through to a tender, pillowy perfection. Watching the sauce thicken and the gnocchi swell is always a satisfying moment, knowing your dish is coming together beautifully.
Step 4: Finish with Parmesan, Parsley, and Seasoning
Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Season the entire pan generously with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to get the balance just right. The Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding a delightful sharpness and depth, while the parsley brings a freshness that brightens the hearty richness. Serve the Chicken Marsala Gnocchi Recipe immediately to enjoy it at its creamiest and best.
How to Serve Chicken Marsala Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic and vibrant garnish that gives a burst of color and a mild herbal note. For a little extra indulgence, a sprinkle of additional Parmesan or even a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and visual appeal. A twist of lemon zest can also be charming if you want a touch of brightness on the plate.
Side Dishes
Since this dish is richly satisfying on its own, serving it with lighter side options is ideal. A crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint. Roasted or steamed asparagus or green beans also complement the creamy sauce wonderfully, lending just enough crunch and freshness to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, consider plating the gnocchi in shallow bowls to showcase the sauce’s luscious texture. Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for a touch of elegance. Alternatively, serve it family-style in a rustic skillet right from the stove for a warm, inviting presentation that invites everyone to dig in and enjoy the Chicken Marsala Gnocchi Recipe together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken further in the fridge, so a quick stir with a splash of broth or cream before reheating helps rejuvenate the dish.
Freezing
This recipe can be frozen, but it’s best to do so before adding the Parmesan cheese. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching. Adding a bit of chicken broth or cream will help loosen the sauce and restore its creamy consistency. Microwave reheating works as well, but be sure to stir every minute to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! While potato gnocchi give a soft texture that complements the sauce perfectly, you can also experiment with sweet potato or ricotta gnocchi for subtle variations in flavor and texture.
Is it necessary to use Marsala wine?
Marsala wine is key to achieving the authentic flavor in this dish, but if you don’t have it on hand, dry sherry or a sweet white wine can be reasonable substitutes, though the taste will be slightly different.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, just skip the chicken and consider adding more mushrooms or a hearty vegetable like artichoke hearts. Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, and the dish remains delicious and satisfying.
How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
To thicken, let the dish simmer uncovered a bit longer to reduce the liquid. For a thinner sauce, add extra broth or cream while cooking or reheating until you reach your desired consistency.
What if I don’t like mushrooms?
You can either reduce the amount of mushrooms or omit them entirely; the recipe will still be flavorful. Alternatively, substitute with other vegetables like spinach or peas for a different twist.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Marsala Gnocchi Recipe is one of those feel-good dishes that never fails to impress, whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends. Its creamy, rich sauce paired with tender gnocchi and succulent chicken feels like a warm hug on a plate. Give this recipe a try, and you just might find it becoming a staple in your dinner rotation that you return to again and again.
Print
Chicken Marsala Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Chicken Marsala Gnocchi is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender gnocchi and shredded rotisserie chicken simmered in a rich Marsala wine cream sauce with sautéed mushrooms and onions. This easy one-pan recipe combines Italian classics into a hearty meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Sauce and Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup Marsala wine
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1.5 cups cooked or rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, optional, to taste
Instructions
- Heat Butter and Oil: Add the olive oil and butter to a fairly deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, proceed to the next step.
- Sauté Mushrooms and Onions: Add the sliced mushrooms and chopped onions to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their water and the liquid has evaporated, and both mushrooms and onions are nicely seared, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Dijon Mustard: Reduce heat to medium. Stir in the minced garlic and Dijon mustard, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Main Ingredients: Pour in the Marsala wine, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Then add the uncooked potato gnocchi and shredded chicken to the skillet. Stir gently to combine.
- Simmer: Allow the mixture to come to a bubble. Continue cooking uncovered, stirring occasionally for 5 to 7 minutes, until the gnocchi is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your preference.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if using. Season generously with salt and pepper. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use either cremini or white mushrooms based on preference or availability.
- The Marsala wine adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce; dry Marsala is preferable.
- Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut, but freshly cooked chicken can be used as well.
- Fresh parsley adds a vibrant note but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi to avoid mushy texture.
