Chicken Marsala Casserole

Experience the comforting embrace of Italian flavors with our tantalizing Chicken Marsala Casserole recipe. Rich marsala wine, savory mushrooms, and tender chicken combine in this mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a cozy night in, this casserole will transport your taste buds to culinary bliss. Join us as we dive into the art of creating this irresistible dish that will leave you longing for seconds.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 16 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 1/2 tablespoons flour
• 1/2 cup Marsala wine (or white wine)
• 1/2 cup fat-free half & half
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or stock
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup brown rice, uncooked
• 2 packed cups coarsely chopped cooked chicken
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to coat. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Slowly pour in the Marsala wine, stirring constantly to deglaze the skillet and incorporate any browned bits from the bottom.
6. Stir in the fat-free half & half and chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Stir in the uncooked brown rice, chopped cooked chicken, and chopped fresh parsley until well combined.
8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
9. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
10. Remove the foil and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cook Notes and Variations

• For added richness, you can use full-fat half & half instead of fat-free.
• Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of this casserole.
• Add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of lemon zest for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Incorporate your favorite herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano for extra depth of flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use precooked rice for this casserole? A: Yes, you can use precooked rice to save time. Simply reduce the amount of chicken broth or stock used in the recipe and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes if baking from cold.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make a few simple substitutions to create a version of this Chicken Marsala Casserole that fits your dietary needs:

• Replace the brown rice with cauliflower rice or shirataki rice for a low-carb option.
• Use heavy cream instead of fat-free half & half to reduce the carb content.
• Skip the flour or use a small amount of almond flour or coconut flour as a thickener instead.

With these substitutions, you can enjoy a delicious Chicken Marsala Casserole while staying within your dietary goals.

Chicken Marsala Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this casserole will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of homemade Chicken Marsala Casserole.