Cheesy Chicken Marsala Bake

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#### **Step 2: Make the Marsala Sauce**
1. In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes, until softened and lightly browned.
2. Pour in the Marsala wine and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce reduce slightly.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and fresh thyme, and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

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#### **Step 3: Assemble the Bake**
1. In a large baking dish (9×13 inches works well), place the browned chicken breasts in a single layer.
2. Pour the Marsala mushroom sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring each breast is coated with the creamy sauce.
3. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top of the chicken and sauce.
4. If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the cheese layer for added texture.

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#### **Step 4: Bake the Chicken Marsala**
1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. If you added breadcrumbs, the top should be golden and crispy by the time it’s done.

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#### **Step 5: Garnish and Serve**
1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
3. Serve the cheesy Chicken Marsala bake with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.

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### **Why You’ll Love Cheesy Chicken Marsala Bake**

– **Comforting and Hearty:** This bake combines all the cozy, rich flavors of Chicken Marsala with the indulgence of melted cheese and a creamy sauce.
– **One-Pan Meal:** Everything is cooked in one dish, from the chicken to the sauce, making cleanup a breeze.
– **Cheesy Goodness:** The mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses create a melty, gooey topping that’s sure to satisfy any cheese lover.
– **Simple Yet Elegant:** While the recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner, it’s also elegant enough to serve at a dinner party or special occasion.

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### **Tips for the Best Cheesy Chicken Marsala Bake**

1. **Brown the Chicken:** Don’t skip the step of browning the chicken before baking. This creates a delicious crust that adds flavor to the dish.
2. **Use Full-Fat Cream:** For a richer, creamier sauce, use full-fat heavy cream. You can use a lighter cream, but it may not yield the same richness.
3. **Customize the Cheese:** While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, you can add other cheeses like provolone or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
4. **Add Vegetables:** If you want to incorporate more vegetables, try adding some spinach, peas, or bell peppers to the bake for extra flavor and color.

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### **Conclusion**

**Cheesy Chicken Marsala Bake** is the perfect dish for anyone who loves the savory flavors of Chicken Marsala but wants a more convenient, comforting twist. With tender chicken, a rich Marsala sauce, and a cheesy, golden crust, this bake will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a special dinner for your family, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy every time. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness in every bite!