Olive Garden’s Stuffed Chicken Marsala Recipe: A Restaurant-Quality Dish at Home

If you’ve ever dined at Olive Garden, chances are you’ve heard of their iconic Stuffed Chicken Marsala. This dish is a delightful blend of tender chicken, creamy cheese filling, and a savory Marsala wine sauce that’s bound to impress. 

The good news? You don’t have to visit the restaurant to enjoy it. With this recipe, you can recreate Olive Garden’s Stuffed Chicken Marsala in your own kitchen, capturing all the flavors you love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Cheese Filling:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Marsala Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 cup Marsala wine

• 1 cup chicken stock

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 1 cup sliced mushrooms

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix until fully incorporated. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will create a pocket for the cheese filling.

2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

3. Stuff each chicken breast with a generous amount of the cheese mixture. Secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling in place while cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Dredge the stuffed chicken breasts lightly in flour, shaking off any excess.

2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts.

3. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Marsala Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Pour in the Marsala wine and chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reduce by about half, which should take 5-7 minutes.

5. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the Marsala sauce over the top.

2. Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 5-7 minutes, ensuring it’s cooked through and the cheese filling is hot.

3. Remove the toothpicks before serving and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

4. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.

Tips for Success

1. Choose Quality Marsala Wine: Opt for a dry Marsala wine rather than a sweet one to achieve the signature flavor profile of the sauce.

2. Prevent Overstuffing: Avoid overfilling the chicken breasts to keep the stuffing from spilling out during cooking.

3. Make Ahead: The cheese filling and Marsala sauce can be prepared in advance. Simply store them in the refrigerator and assemble the dish when you’re ready to cook.

4. Customize the Filling: Feel free to add your own twist to the cheese filling by incorporating spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs.

FAQs

What is Marsala wine?

Marsala wine is a fortified wine from Sicily, Italy, often used in cooking to create rich, flavorful sauces. It’s available in both sweet and dry varieties, but dry Marsala is recommended for savory dishes like this one.

Can I use a substitute for Marsala wine?

If you don’t have Marsala wine, you can substitute it with a mixture of dry sherry or white wine and a splash of brandy. While it won’t replicate the exact flavor, it will still result in a delicious sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently and cook the chicken as directed.

What can I serve with Stuffed Chicken Marsala?

Popular sides include garlic mashed potatoes, fettuccine Alfredo, roasted asparagus, or a simple side salad. The creamy sauce pairs well with starchy or green accompaniments.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Final Thoughts

Recreating Olive Garden’s Stuffed Chicken Marsala at home is a rewarding culinary experience that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its rich, creamy cheese filling and flavorful Marsala sauce, this dish transforms an ordinary dinner into a gourmet event. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to become a household favorite. Enjoy!