A Flavor-Packed, Cheesy Delight
Introduction
If you’re searching for a restaurant-quality dish that you can effortlessly make at home, look no further than Easy Chicken Lombardy. This classic Italian-American dish features tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich Marsala wine sauce, topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and finished with a crisp golden crust. Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or meal prep, this recipe is both comforting and elegant.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to master Chicken Lombardy, including ingredient swaps, kitchen tools, tips, and storage suggestions. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this dish is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and everyday ingredients make this dish achievable for home cooks of all levels.
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of Marsala wine, butter, and cheese creates a depth of flavor that’s irresistible.
- Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
Ingredients
To make Easy Chicken Lombardy, you’ll need:
- 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut lengthwise in half)
- 1/4 cup Marsala wine
- 8 oz sliced baby Bella mushrooms
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup butter (divided)
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 tbsp corn starch + 1 tbsp water
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pan or skillet
- Cutting board
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13 baking dish
- Whisk
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
2. Cook the Mushrooms
In a large pan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté for 3-5 minutes, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Chicken
- Cut each chicken breast lengthwise in half.
- Cover with plastic wrap and pound until evenly flattened.
- Dredge each piece in flour, coating both sides evenly.
4. Sear the Chicken
- In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over high heat.
- Cook chicken for about 3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
5. Make the Marsala Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium-low.
- Slowly pour in chicken broth and Marsala wine, stirring constantly.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water. Stir into the sauce to thicken.
6. Assemble and Bake
- Transfer chicken to a 9×13 baking dish.
- Top with sautéed mushrooms, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Pour melted butter over the top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot!
Tips and Variations
Ingredient Swaps
- No Marsala wine? Substitute dry white wine or chicken broth with a splash of balsamic vinegar.
- Prefer a crunchier texture? Add panko breadcrumbs before baking.
- Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free cheese and replace butter with olive oil.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic: Serve over pasta (angel hair or fettuccine pair beautifully).
- Low-carb: Enjoy with a side of roasted vegetables or zucchini noodles.
- Comfort food style: Serve over creamy mashed potatoes.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second increments until warm.
FAQ
Can I make Chicken Lombardy ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare everything up to the baking step, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as instructed.
What can I use instead of chicken breasts?
Try boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
What wine pairs well with Chicken Lombardy?
A dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish perfectly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend and use cornstarch for thickening.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Lombardy recipe is the perfect balance of rich, creamy, and savory flavors, making it an excellent addition to your meal rotation. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or salad, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
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