Welcome to a culinary adventure that promises to transport you straight to the heart of Italy with every savory bite! Today, we invite you to experience the mesmerizing flavors of our Copycat Olive Garden Stuffed Chicken Marsala recipe – a delightful homage to the beloved Italian classic that will leave you craving for more.

Picture succulent chicken breasts, carefully stuffed with a heavenly blend of rich cheeses, aromatic herbs, and tender spinach. Bathed in a luscious Marsala wine sauce, each mouthwatering forkful unveils an exquisite symphony of tastes that dance across your palate.

At first bite, you’ll be enchanted by the harmonious combination of the perfectly cooked chicken, oozy cheese, and earthy spinach. The unmistakable Marsala wine sauce elevates this dish to new heights, infusing it with warm, caramelized notes that complement and enhance every ingredient.

Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a passionate food enthusiast, our Copycat Olive Garden Stuffed Chicken Marsala recipe promises to be a showstopper at your dining table. So, gather your loved ones, set the ambiance, and embark on a culinary journey to the enchanting streets of Italy without leaving the comfort of your home. Let the enticing aromas and incredible flavors take you on an unforgettable gastronomic voyage, where the spirit of Italian cooking comes alive in all its glory. Buon appetito!

What is Chicken Marsala?

Chicken Marsala is a popular Italian-American dish that features pan-seared chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful Marsala wine sauce. The dish originated in Sicily, Italy, where Marsala wine is produced, and it has become a beloved classic in many Italian restaurants worldwide.

To prepare Chicken Marsala, boneless and skinless chicken breasts are typically pounded to an even thickness to ensure even cooking. The chicken is then seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes dredged in flour before being sautéed in a skillet with butter or oil until it’s golden brown on both sides.

The signature Marsala wine sauce is the star of this dish. Marsala wine, a fortified wine from the region of Marsala in Sicily, is known for its rich, sweet, and nutty flavor. The wine is used to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken, and then combined with other ingredients like mushrooms, garlic, and sometimes onions.

The sauce is simmered until it thickens and develops a rich, complex flavor. Some variations may include the addition of heavy cream or chicken broth to enhance the sauce’s creaminess and depth. Once the sauce is ready, it is poured over the cooked chicken, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Chicken Marsala is often served with a side of pasta, such as fettuccine or linguine, or accompanied by roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. The dish’s delightful combination of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and the luxurious Marsala wine sauce makes it a comforting and elegant option for a delicious Italian-inspired meal.

Making a delicious copycat Olive Garden chicken marsala requires a few key ingredients and cooking techniques. Here’s a recipe that you can try:

Copycat Olive Garden’s Stuffed Chicken Marsala

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
• 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• 1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
• 1 medium onion, sliced thin (optional)
• 1/2 cup dry Marsala wine

Stuffing:

• 1/2 cup shredded provolone or gouda cheese
• 8-oz package mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp fresh garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 Tbsp sun-dried tomato flakes (drained first if in oil)
• 1/3 cup green onions, thinly sliced
• 3/4 cup sour cream (6 oz)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

 

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden’s Stuffed Chicken Marsala:

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine all the cheese stuffing ingredients until well mixed.
2. Butterfly the thickest section of the chicken breasts to create two lobes. Place each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound until they are 1/4″ to 1/2″ thick.
3. Lay the flattened chicken breasts on a plate and spoon the desired amount of stuffing on one lobe of each chicken breast. Gently press the stuffing down to resemble a hockey puck.
4. Fold over another lobe of chicken breast to encase the stuffing. It does not have to seal completely.
5. In a medium bowl, blend the flour, salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
6. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until it starts to bubble lightly.
7. Dredge each stuffed chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess.
8. Cook the chicken for approximately 2 minutes on each side until lightly browned. Add the sliced mushrooms and onion (optional) around the chicken pieces after flipping them.
9. Continue to cook for about 2 more minutes until the chicken is lightly browned on the second side. Stir the mushrooms.
10. Deglaze the pan by adding the Marsala wine to the mushrooms, and gently scrape the bottom to release any sticky chicken drippings.
11. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
12. Serve your delightful Copycat Olive Garden Stuffed Chicken Marsala with creamy mashed potatoes and enjoy the authentic Italian flavors in the comfort of your home.

Note: This recipe allows for a burst of flavors, but feel free to adjust the seasoning and stuffing ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Bon appétit!

Serve and enjoy this Copy Cat Olive Garden Stuffed Chicken Marsala with mashed potatoes.

Marsala Wine Substitute:

Marsala wine, renowned for its rich and distinctive taste, is a cherished ingredient in Italian cuisine, adding depth and character to beloved dishes like chicken marsala and risotto. However, whether you’re seeking an alcohol-free option or simply don’t have Marsala wine on hand, fear not! There are several delightful substitutes that can infuse your recipes with similar flavors and complexities.

1. Dry White Wine or White Grape Juice: For dry varieties of Marsala wine, look no further than dry white wine or white grape juice. These alternatives will bring in a touch of acidity and fruity notes, complementing your dishes beautifully.
2. Apple Cider or White Wine Vinegar: If you’re yearning for some of the tangy characteristics that Marsala wine offers, apple cider or white wine vinegar can step in as worthy substitutes. Although they won’t provide the sweetness, their acidic profiles can still work wonders in your culinary creations.
3. Madeira Wine: Hailing from Portugal, Madeira wine boasts a flavor profile that bears resemblance to Marsala. Its nutty undertones and complexity make it an excellent substitute in recipes calling for Marsala.
4. Port Wine: Another delightful option from Portugal, Port wine, can effortlessly stand in for Marsala wine in your cooking endeavors. Be mindful that it imparts a stronger flavor, so adjust the quantity to suit your taste.

Non-Alcoholic Substitute: For those seeking an alcohol-free alternative, here’s a wonderful concoction: Combine 1/4 cup of white grape juice with 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of Sherry vinegar. This unique blend will provide depth and complexity without the use of alcohol.

Remember, each substitute may introduce slight variations to your dish’s flavor, so consider experimenting with a small quantity before incorporating it into a larger batch. Embrace the culinary adventure, and let your taste buds guide you to discover the perfect complement for your cherished recipes. Enjoy the art of cooking with these versatile Marsala wine substitutes, and savor the delightful flavors they bring to your table!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Copycat Olive Garden’s Stuffed Chicken Marsala:

1. Can I prepare the stuffing in advance? Absolutely! The stuffing can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to make the Stuffed Chicken Marsala, simply stuff the chicken breasts and proceed with the cooking instructions.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese for the stuffing? Certainly! While the combination of provolone or gouda, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese creates a delicious stuffing, you can get creative with your cheese choices. Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like fontina, cheddar, or even goat cheese to tailor the flavors to your liking.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can! To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour used for dredging the chicken with gluten-free flour or a flour blend that suits your dietary needs. Additionally, ensure that the breadcrumbs used in the stuffing are gluten-free as well.
4. How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked? To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) at its thickest part. If you don’t have a thermometer, make a small cut in the thickest part of the chicken to ensure there are no traces of pink and the juices run clear.
5. Can I make a vegetarian version of this dish? Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and focus on the delicious stuffing. You can stuff large portobello mushrooms or eggplants with the cheese and sun-dried tomato filling. Then, follow the same cooking steps, adjusting the cooking time for the vegetables as needed.
6. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for future enjoyment. Allow the Stuffed Chicken Marsala to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it gently in the oven or microwave.
7. Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the stuffing? Absolutely! The crushed red pepper flakes add a bit of heat to the stuffing, but you can adjust the amount to your taste preference. Add more or less depending on how spicy you like your dishes.
8. Can I use different types of wine for the Marsala wine substitute? Yes, you can try different types of wine for the substitute, such as sherry or a sweet vermouth. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile may vary slightly from traditional Marsala wine.

Remember, cooking is a delightful journey, so feel free to experiment and personalize this Copycat Olive Garden’s Stuffed Chicken Marsala recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Enjoy your culinary adventures!

More Olive Garden Copycat Recipes:

Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola

Olive Garden Alfredo