As the aroma of garlic and simmering Marsala fills my kitchen, I’m transported back to the cozy corners of Mother Anna’s in Boston’s North End. This is where I first fell in love with Chicken Exquisito—a dish that marries perfectly crispy, tender chicken with a rich, buttery sauce that envelops you in warmth. In this recipe, your taste buds are in for a treat as each bite reveals layers of comfort and nostalgia. Not only is this Chicken Exquisito a quick-to-make crowd-pleaser, but it also brings a touch of Italy to your dining table, designed to impress without hours of effort. So, whether you’re cooking for family or craving a special night in, are you ready to elevate your comfort food game? Why is Chicken Exquisito a Must-Try? Tender, Flavorful Chicken: The combination of perfectly cooked chicken coated in a crispy crust and topped with gooey mozzarella will have everyone asking for seconds. Rich Marsala-Brandy Sauce: This sauce is not just a topping; it’s a luxurious blend that enhances every bite, transporting you straight to an Italian trattoria. Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, this dish can be ready in no time, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend meal. Endless Variations: Feel free to customize by swapping chicken for pork or adding fresh veggies like spinach or mushrooms, keeping your meals exciting. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this Chicken Exquisito is sure to wow your guests just like the Cream Cheese Chicken does. Serving Suggestions: Pair it with a fresh salad or some Garlic Parmesan Chicken for a complete Italian feast! Chicken Exquisito Ingredients For the Chicken • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (3 – 3 1/2 pounds) – The star of the dish, juicy and tender for the perfect texture. • Kosher Salt (1 1/2 teaspoons) – Essential for enhancing the chicken’s natural flavors; adjust to taste. • Freshly Ground Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon) – Adds a warm touch; feel free to use more for a spicier kick. • All-purpose Flour (2 cups) – Dredges the chicken to create a deliciously crispy crust; gluten-free flour is a great substitute. • Large Eggs (6) – Binds the coating well, and can be replaced with a flax egg for a vegan option. • Whole Milk (1/4 cup) – Richness for the egg wash; swap with plant-based milk for dairy-free delight. • Extra Virgin Olive Oil (9 tablespoons total) – Ideal for frying and adds great flavor; can also use butter for a richer taste. For the Sauce • Cold Butter (7 tablespoons total) – Enriches the sauce for a silky finish; vegan butter works nicely, too. • Fresh Garlic (2 tablespoons, minced) – A flavor powerhouse in the sauce; adjust the amount for your preference. • Good Quality Brandy (1/2 cup) – Adds depth to the sauce; substituting with whiskey can give a unique twist. • Sweet Marsala Wine (1 cup) – Brings sweetness and a complex taste; any sweet fortified wine can be used as an alternative. • Low Sodium Chicken Stock (1 cup) – Adds a nice broth flavor; vegetable stock is a perfect substitute for a plant-based dish. For Topping and Serving • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (3 cups) – Melts beautifully on the top of the chicken; provolone or dairy-free cheese are great alternatives. • Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup, chopped) – Brightens the dish and adds a pop of color; optional but highly recommended. • Lemon Wedges – Serve on the side for a refreshing acidity to contrast the richer elements of the dish. This Chicken Exquisito recipe’s ingredients come together to create a delightful meal that’s perfect for any table. Enjoy cooking this warm Italian comfort food! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Exquisito Step 1: Pasta Preparation Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water for your pasta. Once boiling, add your choice of pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes for al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the pasta water if desired, and keep it warm on the stove or in a covered dish while you prepare the Chicken Exquisito. Step 2: Chicken Preparation Now, take the boneless skinless chicken breasts and butterfly them for even cooking. Using a meat mallet, pound each piece to about 1/4 inch thickness, which will ensure tenderness. Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper generously on both sides, enhancing the flavors of your Chicken Exquisito beautifully. Step 3: Coating Prepare a shallow dish with all-purpose flour and another with a mixture of beaten eggs and whole milk. Dredge each seasoned chicken piece in flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Next, dip the chicken into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, return it to the flour, pressing gently to create a lovely, thick coating that gives the Chicken Exquisito its signature crunch. Step 4: Frying Chicken Heat 6 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they achieve a golden, crispy crust. Keep the fried chicken warm in a preheated oven at 200°F while you finish the rest. Step 5: Sauce Creation After frying, wipe out the skillet, keeping those flavorful bits. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of cold butter to the same pan over medium heat. Once the butter melts, sauté 2 tablespoons of minced garlic until fragrant, roughly 1 minute. Carefully pour in 1/2 cup of brandy and 1 cup of sweet Marsala wine, letting it reduce by half, which should take about 5 minutes. Step 6: Final Sauce Stir in 1 cup of low sodium chicken stock into the sauce, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Allow this to simmer for an additional 4-5 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully. Just before serving, whisk in the cold butter until fully emulsified, achieving that rich, silky texture that makes the Chicken Exquisito truly exceptional. Step 7: Broiling Preheat your broiler to high. Plate the fried chicken in an oven-safe dish and pour the luxurious sauce over each piece. Top generously with 3 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. Place the dish under the broiler for about 2-4 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starts to golden—this adds an irresistible layer to your Chicken Exquisito. Step 8: Serve To serve, place a generous portion of the warmed pasta on each plate and carefully arrange the Chicken Exquisito on top. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the dish over the chicken, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for color. Include lemon wedges on the side for a bright burst of acidity that complements the dish perfectly. How to Store and Freeze Chicken Exquisito Fridge: Store leftovers of Chicken Exquisito in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the dish fresh and flavorful for your next meal. Freezer: You can freeze Chicken Exquisito for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain the dish’s texture without drying it out. Serving After Storage: For the best taste, consider serving with fresh pasta or a side salad to revive that delightful Italian charm. Expert Tips for Chicken Exquisito Hot Oil: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying chicken to achieve that perfect crispy crust and avoid sogginess. Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! This will enhance the flavors of your Chicken Exquisito, making each bite memorable. Monitor the Broiler: Keep a close eye on your chicken under the broiler. It can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds! Let It Rest: Allow the fried chicken to rest briefly after cooking; this helps retain moisture and enhances tenderness. Customizable Sauce: Adjust the sweetness of the Marsala-Brandy sauce according to your taste; you can add more or less brandy and wine for a personalized flavor. Make Ahead Options These Chicken Exquisito are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and pound the chicken, then dredge it in flour and egg mixture up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. The sauce can also be made ahead; simply sauté the garlic and deglaze with brandy and Marsala, but hold off on adding the cold butter until just before serving for maximum creaminess. When you’re ready to impress, fry the breaded chicken directly from the fridge and finish with broiling right after pouring the sauce over. This way, you’ll have a delightful Chicken Exquisito ready with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights! Chicken Exquisito Customizations Feel free to get creative with this comforting dish and make it your own with these tempting variations! Pasta Swap: Use your favorite pasta type or try spiralized zucchini for a lighter option. It adds a fresh texture that’s delightful! Protein Change: Swap chicken for thinly sliced pork or even eggplant for a fun twist that’s equally satisfying. Both options offer unique flavor profiles that enhance the dish’s heartiness. Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free flour when dredging the chicken to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste or texture. Add Veggies: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the sauce for a nutritious boost. These veggies not only add color but also extra flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the sauce. Dairy-Free: Replace whole milk with almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free cheese like cashew mozzarella to accommodate a dairy-free diet. Your dish will still be creamy and comforting! Heat It Up: Want a little kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist that elevates the overall flavor profile. Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can replace parsley for an aromatic touch that brightens every bite. Change the Sauce: For a fun flavor adventure, experiment using white wine instead of Marsala for a lighter, more acidic zing, or just adjust the amounts of brandy and Marsala for a unique taste experience each time! Whichever variation you choose, your Chicken Exquisito is sure to shine, just like the warm comfort found in these other popular recipes: the Fried Chicken Street or Cranberry Chicken Savory. Enjoy every delicious bite as you embrace your personal touch! What to Serve with Tender Chicken Exquisito? Transform your Chicken Exquisito into a delightful meal with these unforgettable pairings that will tantalize your taste buds. Garlic Bread: This classic accompaniment is perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce, bringing a satisfying crunch and buttery flavor. Fresh Green Salad: A vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, enhancing the richness of the dish. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The creamy, buttery potatoes provide a comforting base, perfect for balancing the crispy chicken and rich sauce. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic adds a nutritious touch while enhancing the meal’s flavor with a pop of color. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted to caramel perfection complements the dish with their natural sweetness and texture. Chardonnay: Serve a chilled glass of Chardonnay that harmonizes beautifully with the savory and sweet elements of the Chicken Exquisito. Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, its coffee flavor and creamy texture creating a lovely finale. Chicken Exquisito Recipe FAQs What type of chicken is best for Chicken Exquisito? Boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish, providing tenderness and juiciness. However, you can substitute with chicken thighs for even more moisture and flavor. They marinate nicely in the sauce, creating delightful bites! How should I store leftover Chicken Exquisito? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the dish fresh, but remember to reheat gently to maintain the original crispy texture. Enjoy your delicious comfort food again! Can I freeze Chicken Exquisito? Absolutely! You can freeze Chicken Exquisito for up to 2 months. To do this, first, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results. What should I do if my sauce is too thick? If your Marsala-Brandy sauce has thickened too much, simply add a bit of chicken stock or water over low heat while stirring. This will loosen the sauce to your desired consistency. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed! Are there dietary considerations for Chicken Exquisito? If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend. For a dairy-free option, substitute the whole milk and cold butter with plant-based alternatives, and use dairy-free cheese for topping. Your comfort meal can still shine without the allergens! What can I serve with Chicken Exquisito? This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. You can also add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to your pasta for a full and balanced meal. Enjoy the flavors of Italy on your table! Irresistible Chicken Exquisito: Comforting Italian Delight Chicken Exquisito is a quick and flavorful dish that blends tender chicken with a rich Marsala sauce for an unforgettable Italian experience. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 6 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: ItalianCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken3-3 1/2 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts The star of the dish, juicy and tender for the perfect texture.1 1/2 teaspoons Kosher Salt Essential for enhancing the chicken's natural flavors; adjust to taste.1/2 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper Adds a warm touch; feel free to use more for a spicier kick.2 cups All-purpose Flour Dredges the chicken to create a deliciously crispy crust; gluten-free flour is a great substitute.6 large Eggs Binds the coating well, and can be replaced with a flax egg for a vegan option.1/4 cup Whole Milk Richness for the egg wash; swap with plant-based milk for dairy-free delight.9 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Ideal for frying and adds great flavor; can also use butter for a richer taste.For the Sauce7 tablespoons Cold Butter Enriches the sauce for a silky finish; vegan butter works nicely, too.2 tablespoons Fresh Garlic A flavor powerhouse in the sauce; adjust the amount for your preference.1/2 cup Good Quality Brandy Adds depth to the sauce; substituting with whiskey can give a unique twist.1 cup Sweet Marsala Wine Brings sweetness and a complex taste; any sweet fortified wine can be used as an alternative.1 cup Low Sodium Chicken Stock Adds a nice broth flavor; vegetable stock is a perfect substitute for a plant-based dish.For Topping and Serving3 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Melts beautifully on the top of the chicken; provolone or dairy-free cheese are great alternatives.1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Brightens the dish and adds a pop of color; optional but highly recommended.Lemon Wedges Serve on the side for a refreshing acidity to contrast the richer elements of the dish. Equipment Large potlarge skilletShallow dishMeat MalletOven-safe Dish Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken ExquisitoBegin by boiling a large pot of salted water for your pasta. Once boiling, add your choice of pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes for al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the pasta water if desired, and keep it warm on the stove or in a covered dish while you prepare the Chicken Exquisito.Now, take the boneless skinless chicken breasts and butterfly them for even cooking. Using a meat mallet, pound each piece to about 1/4 inch thickness, which will ensure tenderness. Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper generously on both sides, enhancing the flavors of your Chicken Exquisito beautifully.Prepare a shallow dish with all-purpose flour and another with a mixture of beaten eggs and whole milk. Dredge each seasoned chicken piece in flour, ensuring it's fully coated. Next, dip the chicken into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, return it to the flour, pressing gently to create a lovely, thick coating that gives the Chicken Exquisito its signature crunch.Heat 6 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they achieve a golden, crispy crust. Keep the fried chicken warm in a preheated oven at 200°F while you finish the rest.After frying, wipe out the skillet, keeping those flavorful bits. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of cold butter to the same pan over medium heat. Once the butter melts, sauté 2 tablespoons of minced garlic until fragrant, roughly 1 minute. Carefully pour in 1/2 cup of brandy and 1 cup of sweet Marsala wine, letting it reduce by half, which should take about 5 minutes.Stir in 1 cup of low sodium chicken stock into the sauce, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Allow this to simmer for an additional 4-5 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully. Just before serving, whisk in the cold butter until fully emulsified, achieving that rich, silky texture that makes the Chicken Exquisito truly exceptional.Preheat your broiler to high. Plate the fried chicken in an oven-safe dish and pour the luxurious sauce over each piece. Top generously with 3 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. Place the dish under the broiler for about 2-4 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starts to golden—this adds an irresistible layer to your Chicken Exquisito.To serve, place a generous portion of the warmed pasta on each plate and carefully arrange the Chicken Exquisito on top. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the dish over the chicken, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for color. Include lemon wedges on the side for a bright burst of acidity that complements the dish perfectly. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 45gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftovers of Chicken Exquisito in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze Chicken Exquisito for up to 2 months wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
