Chicken Marsala is an Italian recipe that has been quite popular with many food enthusiasts throughout the world. It features a rich sauce with an earthy and umami-packed flavor from its key ingredients: the mushroom and marsala wine.

Over the years, the chicken marsala evolves and acquires different flavors and versions of the original recipe. Whether it’s classic or not, it’s undeniable that it’s decadent enough to create a party in your mouth.

Chicken Marsala is a fantastic il secondo course that’s delicious on its own; the dish is also more enjoyable when partnered with side dishes that complement its flavor.

If you’re wondering what goes with chicken marsala, here are nine of the heartiest ideas (from plain rice down to sauteed spinach!) that can lead your way to an unforgettable chicken marsala meal you’ve been longing for.

Table of Contents

1. White rice

Let’s start with simple plain rice.

Everyone knows that rice is a staple food in many Asian households. It features a neutral taste that can elevate the flavor of other dishes. This is the reason it’s my favorite side dish for chicken marsala.

Cooking rice is often tough, especially when you aren’t a big fan of them. They might end up too chewy or mushy. But having your rice cooked in a rice cooker makes a big difference.

Learn how to cook rice perfectly in this recipe.

2. Baked sweet potatoes

The idea of having side dishes for chicken marsala should be easy, just like this baked potato recipe! It features three ingredients: salt, sweet potatoes, and olive oil.

The cooking process is easier as they are cooked in an air fryer. The subtle flavors of chicken marsala blend perfectly with sweet potatoes’ satisfying and filling flavor profile.

Learn how to cook sweet potatoes in an air fryer in this recipe.

3. Mushroom risotto

This risotto recipe is one of the chicken marsala side dishes enjoyed by many, including me!

It’s a rice recipe cooked in chicken broth with mushrooms, onions, and parmesan cheese. The dish is so creamy and packed with flavor, making it a good accompaniment for your favorite chicken marsala, sausage, steamed broccoli, or even fried eggs!

Who ever said you couldn’t make them at home? Check out this recipe and learn how to make one now!

4. French bread

The best way to end your tiring day is to have a chicken marsala with french bread on its side for dinner.

Combining these two dishes on a plate creates a burst of compelling flavor that might persuade you to grab some more.

If you’re haven’t tried making a loaf of homemade bread, this recipe is a great place to start!

5. Buttered noodles

You aren’t a certified chicken marsala fan if you haven’t tried eating them with buttered noodles.

It’s my go-to side dish when I have a chicken marsala at the table. The combination of parmesan cheese and butter offers a nice sweet and buttery taste that blends well with the egg noodles. Adding chicken stock instead of water also enhances the flavor of the overall dish.

Chicken Marsala isn’t the main course that works well with buttered noodles. I love to pair them with sirloin steaks and sauteed mushrooms too.

If you’re still puzzled about what pasta to serve with chicken marsala, then this buttered noodles dish might be the one to clear your mind!

Get the recipe here.

6. Mashed potatoes

Still wondering what goes with chicken marsala? Then this next recipe might be your answer!

The marsala sauce’s consistency matches perfectly with the light, fluff texture and rich, creamy flavor of mashed potatoes. Making them is quick and easy, too. All you need is to mix potatoes, milk, butter, and spices.

Besides your favorite chicken marsala, it’s also a perfect side for meat dishes like steak or pork chops.

If you’re planning to make a large batch, better prepare to freeze them!

Learn how to store mashed potatoes in this recipe so you can enjoy them anytime, anywhere!

7. Garlic and herb roasted potatoes

What goes well with chicken marsala? Roasted potatoes!

This recipe features an incredible boost of flavor from the spice trio of oregano, thyme, and garlic. At the same time, the addition of paprika and salt improves the taste of the baby potatoes even more.

You can even tweak by adding some parmesan cheese or any ingredients of your liking.

Here’s the recipe.

8. Sauteed spinach

This sauteed spinach recipe is among those chicken marsala sides on my top list. Why? It’s hassle-free and easy to prepare!

The dish only requires you three basic ingredients: spinach, olive oil, and salt. But I suggest you get creative when you’re sauteing your spinach. Try adding wine, garlic, bell pepper, onion, or anything that you can come up with.

Quick tip: Since spinach shrinks dramatically when cooked, it’s best to work in batches.

Check out this recipe.

9. Broccoli salad

Looking for a salad to serve with chicken marsala? You’ve landed on the right page!

This broccoli salad balances the bold taste of your chicken marsala. It combines bacon, fresh broccoli, red onion, mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and dill, resulting in a crunchy and creamy side dish.

Also, its possibilities are endless. Get creative on your broccoli salad by adding different ingredients you have on hand. Consider tossing almond slices if you want a rich nutty taste of dried cranberries for a flair of flavor.

Find more variations of this broccoli salad in this recipe.

The bottom line

Whether you serve them on a bed of plain rice alongside zucchini or pair them with creamy mashed potatoes and broccoli salad, nothing can go wrong with the subtle and savory flavor of chicken marsala. They’re incredibly irresistible!

If you know other recipes that go well with chicken marsala, please share them with us!