Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant-quality calories? This Weight Watchers Chicken Marsala recipe delivers the rich, savory flavors you love, perfectly balanced with lighter ingredients for a guilt-free, satisfying dinner. It's a quick dinner idea that’s perfect for busy weeknights and impressive enough for a special occasion. Get ready to enjoy homemade cooking at its finest! This easy recipe is a testament to how delicious and healthy meals can be.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup sliced cremini mushrooms
- 1/2 cup sliced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry Marsala wine (look for lower-sugar options)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp water
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 4 oz fresh shiitake mushrooms (optional, for added umami)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the cremini and shiitake mushrooms (if using) and onion. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pan
Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Add Broth and Seasoning
Stir in the chicken broth, cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl), and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another minute to allow the chicken to heat through and coat in the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately over your favorite pasta, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a complete and healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Marsala:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it browns properly.
- Use a good quality Marsala wine: The wine significantly impacts the flavor of the dish.
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry. Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and thyme as needed.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
- Use different mushrooms: Experiment with other types of mushrooms like oyster mushrooms or portobello mushrooms.
- Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Weight Watchers Chicken Marsala recipe is a delicious and healthy option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying textures without the guilt! This easy recipe is a great addition to your repertoire of best recipes and healthy meals. It's a perfect example of how delicious dishes can also be quick dinner ideas. Remember to adjust the recipe to your liking and enjoy!