As I savored the last bite of a restaurant-worthy dish, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I had to recreate it at home. Enter Chicken Exquisito – a sumptuous blend of tender, breaded chicken enveloped in a rich Marsala brandy sauce, topped off with gooey mozzarella cheese. This Italian-inspired delight not only captures the essence of comfort food but also promises quick prep, making it a fantastic choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes, Chicken Exquisito is bound to impress your family and friends. Ready to elevate your next meal into a culinary celebration? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why is Chicken Exquisito a Must-Try?

Comforting Flavor: This dish perfectly blends savory chicken with a rich sauce, making it a standout meal for any occasion.

Quick Prep: With easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up Chicken Exquisito in no time, ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Impressive Presentation: The melted mozzarella and glistening sauce create a restaurant-quality look, sure to wow your family and friends.

Versatility: Pair it with garlic bread or a light salad for a well-rounded dish, perfect for any palate.

Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe combines familiar flavors that appeal to everyone, making it a favorite at gatherings or family dinners.

Elevate your culinary skills and delight your taste buds with Chicken Exquisito!

Chicken Exquisito Ingredients

• Get ready to create a delightful dish!

For the Pasta
• Pasta (vermicelli recommended) – Perfect base for this Chicken Exquisito, lending a hearty texture; substitute with gluten-free or whole grain pasta if desired.

For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast – The star protein, ensuring tenderness and flavor; feel free to use thighs for added moisture.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust according to your taste preference.
• All-Purpose Flour – This gives the chicken a crispy exterior; gluten-free flour works well as a substitute.
• Eggs & Whole Milk – Creates a batter that allows flour to adhere beautifully; almond milk can be substituted for a dairy-free option.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Perfect for frying and achieving that golden color; avocado oil can be used as an alternative.

For the Sauce
• Cold Butter – Enhances the creaminess of the rich sauce; opt for unsalted butter to have better control over seasoning.
• Fresh Garlic – For a fragrant depth of flavor; garlic powder serves as a quick substitute when you’re in a pinch.
• Good Quality Brandy & Sweet Marsala Wine – Key components for the sauce, imparting depth and richness; avoid cooking wines for the best experience.
• Low Sodium Chicken Stock – Adds a lovely body to the sauce; vegetable stock makes a great vegetarian alternative.

For the Topping & Garnish
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully over the chicken, offering a creamy finish; swap with provolone for a sharper taste.
• Fresh Parsley – Adds vibrant color and freshness; basil works well if you prefer a different herb.
• Lemon Wedges – Serve alongside for a zesty finish that brightens the dish.

Ready to savor the decadence of Chicken Exquisito? Gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Exquisito

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking your choice of pasta, ideally vermicelli, according to the package instructions. Bring a pot of salted water to a vigorous boil and cook until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, allowing the pasta to cool slightly while you prepare the rest of this Chicken Exquisito recipe.

Step 2: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). This low temperature will keep the fried chicken warm and crispy while you finish preparing the sauce. This step is essential to ensure your Chicken Exquisito is served hot, enhancing the overall enjoyment of this delightful dish.

Step 3: Prepare Chicken
Take boneless, skinless chicken breasts and carefully butterfly them, then pound to ¼ inch thickness for even cooking. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper, ensuring every bite is flavorful. This preparation sets the foundation for the tender, juicy chicken in your Chicken Exquisito.

Step 4: Dredge Chicken
Set up a dredging station with all-purpose flour, followed by a mixture of beaten eggs and whole milk. First, dip your seasoned chicken into the flour, ensuring it’s well-coated. Then, dip it in the egg mixture before returning it to the flour for an additional coating, creating a crispy exterior that will stand up beautifully to frying.

Step 5: Fry Chicken
Heat a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the breaded chicken pieces in batches, frying for about 2 minutes per side until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown color. Transfer the cooked chicken to the preheated oven to keep warm while you move on to the sauce.

Step 6: Make the Sauce
After frying the chicken, wipe the skillet clean and return it to medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and cold butter to the pan, allowing them to melt together. Sauté minced fresh garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds, then carefully deglaze the pan with good quality brandy and sweet Marsala wine, scraping up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom.

Step 7: Finish Sauce
Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens to about half a cup. Next, pour in low sodium chicken stock, bringing the mixture back to a gentle simmer. Turn off the heat and swirl in the cold butter off the stove to create a glossy, rich sauce that envelops your Chicken Exquisito beautifully.

Step 8: Broil Chicken
Once the sauce is ready, pour it generously over the fried chicken pieces in your skillet. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top and transfer the skillet to the broiler. Broil for approximately 2 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, making your Chicken Exquisito irresistible.

Step 9: Serve
Plate the rich Chicken Exquisito alongside the prepared pasta, drizzling additional sauce over everything. Garnish each serving with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color, and serve with lemon wedges on the side to brighten the flavors. Enjoy this elegant meal with family and friends!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Exquisito

Fridge: Store your Chicken Exquisito in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezer: If you’d like to freeze it, wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or use freezer-safe containers. It will last for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For best results, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, avoiding the microwave to maintain crispiness. Pour some extra sauce over before reheating for a moisture boost.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can also bread the chicken in advance, store it in the fridge, and fry it just before serving. This preparation allows quick assembly of your Chicken Exquisito on busy nights!

What to Serve with Chicken Exquisito?

Transform your Chicken Exquisito into a delightful feast by pairing it with these mouthwatering sides and beverages.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The richness of mashed potatoes complements the silky sauce beautifully, offering a comforting texture.
Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the luscious sauce. It’s a family favorite!
Sautéed Green Beans: Fresh, crisp green beans add a vibrant color and earthy flavor that balances the dish’s richness. Toss with a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons act as a refreshing counterpoint to the decadent chicken. It’s a perfect light addition!
Risotto: Creamy risotto infused with herbs and Parmesan offers an elegant touch that pairs well with the flavors of Chicken Exquisito, making each bite heavenly.
Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay complements the savory elements of the dish nicely, enhancing the overall dining experience. It’s the perfect sip to accompany the flavors!
Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a velvety chocolate mousse. The richness echoes the main course but offers a delightful finish to your evening.

Embrace these pairings to create heartwarming meals that everyone will adore!

Expert Tips for Chicken Exquisito

• Hot Oil Is Key: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken for that perfect crispy texture. Use a cooking thermometer for accuracy.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Cook in batches for crispiness.

• Adjust the Sauce Sweetness: Control the sweetness of your Chicken Exquisito by adjusting the amount of brandy and Marsala wine. Taste as you go!

• Use the Right Chicken: For the utmost tenderness, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They provide extra moisture and flavor.

• Finish with Butter: Incorporating cold butter off heat at the end of your sauce preparation gives it a silky, rich finish. Don’t skip this step for that luxurious touch!

Chicken Exquisito Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this dish and tailor it to your tastes for a delightful twist!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond milk and use a dairy-free cheese blend for a creamy finish.
Pasta Alternatives: Swap vermicelli for gluten-free pasta, zucchini noodles, or quinoa for a lighter base.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with provolone for a sharper flavor, or use goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a nutritional boost that complements the sauce beautifully.
Herb Infusion: Swap fresh parsley for basil or oregano to introduce new flavors and freshness to your dish.
Top with Prosciutto: Elevate the dish with crispy prosciutto for added savory depth that contrasts the sweetness of the sauce.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a gentle kick that balances the rich flavor beautifully.
Serve Differently: Instead of pasta, enjoy Chicken Exquisito over creamy polenta or with a light salad for a fresh twist.

Looking for more delightful chicken recipes? Check out my Bang Bang Chicken or the cozy Butter Chicken Comfort for delicious options!

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Exquisito are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bread the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator to maintain its crispiness. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce—sans the cold butter—up to 3 days ahead. Just refrigerate it in an airtight container, and gently reheat it on the stove before finishing. When you’re ready to serve, fry the chicken and then broil it with the sauce and mozzarella cheese just before serving for that restaurant-quality effect. This way, you’ll enjoy all the decadent flavors of Chicken Exquisito with less hassle on busy weeknights!

Chicken Exquisito Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for Chicken Exquisito?
Absolutely! For the most tender and flavorful result, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If you’re looking for extra moisture, chicken thighs are an excellent alternative. Aim for pieces that are plump and have a pinkish hue, avoiding any that show dark spots or have an off smell.

How should I store leftover Chicken Exquisito?
To keep your Chicken Exquisito fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before sealing it in to prevent condensation, which can make the chicken soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it in the oven for best results.

Can I freeze Chicken Exquisito for later?
Very much so! If you want to savor this dish later, wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, or use freezer-safe containers. It will hold up well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the oven to maintain that delicious crispiness.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you’ve found that your sauce has thickened too much, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of additional chicken stock or water to the sauce and stir well over low heat. This will help loosen it up and achieve the desired silky consistency. Taste it to ensure it’s still flavorful, adjusting seasoning as needed.

Is Chicken Exquisito suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If you’re catering to gluten-free diets, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and ensure your pasta is also gluten-free. Additionally, for dairy-free options, use almond milk in the batter and swap mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Just double-check all packaging to avoid any hidden allergens!

Can I make Chicken Exquisito ahead of time?
Of course! To make your life easier, you can bread the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to fry it. This prep allows you to expedite the final cooking process on a busy night! Once you’ve coated it and stored, simply fry right before serving for optimal freshness.

Enjoy your culinary journey with Chicken Exquisito!