Marsala Baked Chicken Breasts
Juicy chicken breasts are coated in a flavorful mixture of Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and paprika, then baked to perfection. Finished with a splash of rich Marsala wine, this dish offers a savory, slightly sweet taste with a crispy exterior—perfect for a comforting yet elegant meal for any chicken lover.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and paprika in a bowl and stir well.
- Dredge the chicken breasts in the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
- Arrange the coated chicken breasts in a shallow baking pan coated with vegetable cooking spray.
- Dot the chicken with reduced calorie margarine.
- Bake, covered, at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Pour Marsala wine over the chicken.
- Cover and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for another 15 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in the Marsala wine for 30 minutes before coating them. If you don't have Italian breadcrumbs, you can use plain breadcrumbs mixed with Italian herbs. To lighten it further, substitute reduced calorie margarine with olive oil. Always ensure the chicken is fully coated in the breadcrumb mixture for optimal crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Marsala Baked Chicken with a side of creamy risotto or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Rissotto With Porcini Mushrooms. For a complete dinner, consider adding a fresh salad or garlic bread. This dish also works well with a light white wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Marsala Baked Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. This will help retain the chicken's moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marsala Baked Chicken Breasts contains roughly 768 calories, with 6g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 876mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add more moisture to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What can I serve with Marsala Baked Chicken?
Marsala Baked Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables or a light pasta dish, such as Spinach Chicken Pasta. A simple green salad can also complement the flavors nicely.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to cook, simply add additional baking time as needed. This is a great way to streamline dinner prep during busy weeknights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).