This Keto Chicken Marsala recipe offers a delectable and healthy take on a classic favorite. You can't beat the combination of golden pan-seared chicken, succulent mushrooms, and a rich, velvety sauce, all while keeping the carb count low. With only 4.5g of carbs per serving, this dish proves that gourmet meals don't have to be complicated or unhealthy.
Why You'll Love This Keto Chicken Marsala
Many restaurant-style dinners are surprisingly quick and easy to prepare, and this Keto Chicken Marsala is no exception. You can prep, cook, and serve this dish in under an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight meal that feels like a special occasion. The magic of Chicken Marsala lies in the sauce - a velvety smooth concoction so mouthwatering, you'll be tempted to savor every last drop.
The Secret to a Keto-Friendly Marsala Sauce
Contrary to popular belief, Marsala sauce doesn't need to be loaded with sugar and carbs. Marsala is a fortified wine that comes in both sweet and dry varieties. The dry or secco version has a carb content similar to other dry red wines, typically 3 to 4g of carbs per 5-ounce serving.
The primary source of carbs in conventional Chicken Marsala often comes from flour, which is used to dredge the chicken before pan-frying. However, this step is unnecessary, as the chicken turns out just as delicious without it. By skipping the flour, you save about 10 to 15 grams of carbs per serving.
Ingredients for Keto Chicken Marsala
- Chicken: Chicken tenders are ideal for this recipe because they cook quickly. Alternatively, you can slice chicken breasts in half to create thinner cutlets. Boneless chicken thighs can also be used, ensuring they are opened up and laid flat in the pan for even cooking.
- Shallot: While onion or garlic can be substituted, shallot adds a milder flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- Mushrooms: Button or cremini mushrooms work well in this recipe.
- Marsala wine: Dry Marsala wine is the best choice for Keto Chicken Marsala because it has very little residual sugar. In a pinch, you can use another dry red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
- Chicken broth: Adding broth helps to thin out and round out the sauce.
- Heavy cream: Cream adds a velvety texture to the sauce, pairing perfectly with the chicken and mushrooms. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream can be used.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sear the chicken: Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the mushrooms: Add butter to the pan and let it melt. Add the shallot and cook, stirring frequently, until translucent. Add the mushrooms and sauté until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
- Add the wine: Pour the Marsala wine over the mushrooms and let it cook until the wine is reduced by about half. Add the broth and heavy cream and bring to a boil.
- Simmer and finish: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF (74°C). If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it with a small amount of xanthan gum.
Tips for the Perfect Keto Chicken Marsala
- Chicken Selection: Chicken tenders are thin and cook through quickly. You can also slice chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner cutlets.
- Wine Substitution: If you can't find dry Marsala, use another dry red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
- Wine Alternative: If you want to avoid wine altogether, replace it with more chicken broth. While the flavor will be different, you'll still have a delicious chicken and mushroom dish.
- Mushroom Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms in this recipe.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can use xanthan gum. Mix ¼ teaspoon of xanthan gum with 2 tablespoons of sauce in a small bowl, then return it to the pan and simmer until thickened. Also be careful not to add too much or it will thicken up too much.
- Don't Overcook Mushrooms: Overcooked mushrooms can become rubbery and lose their flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Keto Chicken Marsala on its own, with a side salad, or over steamed cauliflower rice. Mashed cauliflower is also a great option for soaking up the creamy sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
You can make this Keto Chicken Marsala ahead of time and reheat it later. Cook the chicken and sauce according to the recipe, then let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or oven. To prevent the chicken from drying out when reheating in the microwave, use 50% power.
Is Chicken Marsala Keto-Friendly?
Conventional chicken marsala often involves dredging the chicken in flour, which adds unnecessary carbs. However, this Keto Chicken Marsala skips the flour and has only 4.8g of carbs per serving. Dry Marsala wine is also low in carbs, making it suitable for keto recipes.
Nutritional Information
A serving of this Keto Chicken Marsala has just 8 net carbs, making it a great choice for a keto and low-carb diet.
Choosing the Right Marsala Wine
When making Chicken Marsala, quality counts. Look for a bottle that was made in Sicily and is drinkable and smooth. Avoid anything labeled "cooking wine," as these tend to have a higher salt content. Dry Marsala wine makes the tastiest creamy Marsala sauce.
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