Are you craving that rich, decadent Marsala sauce you get at Carrabba's Italian Grill? Do you dream of enjoying this deliciousness without the restaurant price tag? Then you're in luck! This recipe lets you recreate the magic of Carrabba's Marsala sauce right in your own kitchen. It's easier than you think, and the results are unbelievably satisfying. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this quick dinner idea, a truly delicious dish perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for easy homemade cooking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces (or your favorite protein!)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup dry Marsala wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Carrabba's Marsala Sauce at Home
Let's dive into making this incredible Marsala sauce. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result every time!
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Season and Sear: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the remaining oil in the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute, until the flour is lightly browned. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
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Deglaze the Pan: Carefully pour in the Marsala wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits. Let the wine simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off slightly.
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Simmer the Sauce: Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, and let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes, or until it slightly thickens.
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Create Creamy Goodness: Stir in the heavy cream and butter. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
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Combine and Finish: Return the chicken to the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Cook for another minute or two, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is perfectly coated.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Tips and Variations for the Best Marsala Sauce
- Protein Power: Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp, veal, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Mushroom Magic: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the chicken for an added depth of flavor.
- Wine Selection: Experiment with different types of Marsala wine to find your favorite. A sweeter Marsala will result in a sweeter sauce.
- Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it for a few more minutes, or whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-25g
This Carrabba's Marsala sauce recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious, easy-to-follow recipe perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cooking!