Chicken Madeira

Chicken Madeira is an elegant, restaurant-style dish that combines tender sautéed chicken cutlets with earthy mushrooms, crisp asparagus, and a luxurious Madeira wine sauce, all finished with melted mozzarella cheese. Inspired by the Cheesecake Factory’s signature entrée, this homemade version is surprisingly easy to prepare and perfect for both special occasions and indulgent weeknight meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It delivers restaurant-quality flavor right at home
• The rich Madeira sauce is deeply savory and perfectly balanced
• Melted mozzarella adds a satisfying creamy finish
• Great for dinner parties, date nights, or family meals
• Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half lengthwise)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup Madeira wine
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water (optional, for thickening)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 12 spears fresh asparagus, trimmed and blanched
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

directions

this recipe

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet, then sauté mushrooms for 4–5 minutes until browned. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
4. Pour in Madeira wine and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and let reduce by about half (8–10 minutes). If desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
5. Return chicken to the skillet. Spoon sauce and mushrooms over the top.
6. Arrange blanched asparagus over the chicken, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, and cover the skillet until the cheese melts (about 2–3 minutes).
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use provolone or fontina cheese instead of mozzarella
• Substitute Madeira wine with Marsala or dry sherry if needed
• Add caramelized onions for extra sweetness
• Serve over creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a heartier meal
• Omit asparagus or replace with spinach, green beans, or zucchini

storage/reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of broth
• Not ideal for freezing, as the sauce and cheese may separate upon thawing

FAQs

What is Madeira wine?

Madeira is a fortified Portuguese wine with a slightly sweet, nutty flavor, perfect for cooking rich sauces.

Can I use a different wine?

Yes, Marsala or dry sherry make good substitutes in this recipe.

Is Chicken Madeira the same as Chicken Marsala?

They’re similar, but Madeira uses a different wine and includes mozzarella and asparagus, making it richer.

Do I have to use beef broth?

Beef broth adds depth, but chicken broth can be used in a pinch.

How do I blanch asparagus?

Boil trimmed asparagus for 2–3 minutes, then immediately transfer to ice water to stop cooking.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, cook everything except the final melting of cheese, then reheat and finish just before serving.

What’s the best pan to use?

A large, heavy-bottomed skillet or sauté pan works best for searing and simmering the sauce.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free broth and ensure the cornstarch is pure. Skip flour-based sauces.

Can I make it without cheese?

Yes, it’s still delicious without cheese if you prefer a lighter version.

What sides go well with Chicken Madeira?

Mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, rice pilaf, or crusty bread are all great choices.

Conclusion

Chicken Madeira is a flavorful and comforting dish that feels gourmet but is surprisingly simple to make at home. With its savory wine sauce, melty cheese, and perfectly cooked chicken, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious meal that rivals your favorite restaurant version.

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