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Homemade Chicken Marsala Macaroni Bake recipe photo
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Chicken Marsala Macaroni Bake

This Chicken Marsala Macaroni Bake is SO comforting! Creamy Marsala sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese make a perfect baked pasta dinner.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Baked, Chicken, Comfort Food, Easy, Pasta
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts diced
  • 1 cup mushrooms sliced, cremini or white button
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breasts, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Cook for 4-5 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and thyme. Stir well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat the chicken evenly with the creamy Marsala sauce. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the chicken and sauce mixture. Transfer everything to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Baking dish (9x13 inch or similar)
  • Mixing spoon and spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the pasta initially; it will continue cooking in the oven and you want it just al dente.
  • For extra flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of Marsala wine or a dry white wine before adding the broth and cream.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer before combining with the pasta.
  • Make sure to season the sauce well with salt and pepper to enhance all the savory flavors.
  • For a crunchy topping, add a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan before baking.