There’s something undeniably comforting about a beautifully cooked chicken that brings people together. When I first made this Chicken Exquisito, the kitchen filled with the intoxicating aroma of garlic and brandy, and suddenly, it felt like a cozy Italian bistro right at home. Whether you’re looking to impress your dinner guests or simply treat yourself after a long day, this dish is a game-changer.
With a crispy, golden-brown crust enveloping tender chicken, paired with a rich, velvety sauce and melted cheese, each bite is pure bliss. It’s a delightful way to elevate your weeknight routine without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe celebrates vibrant flavors that dance on your palate while being surprisingly easy to master. Get ready to declare your love for home-cooked meals; Chicken Exquisito is about to become your new favorite! Grab your ingredients, and let’s create something spectacular together.
Why is Chicken Exquisito a standout recipe?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brandy and Marsala wine creates a robust sauce that elevates the dish, ensuring each bite is savory and satisfying.
Quick Prep: Ready in just an hour, it’s perfect for busy weekdays when you crave something homemade.
Crowd-Pleaser: With eight servings, this dish is ideal for gatherings, ensuring no one leaves the table hungry.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it over pasta or with a side salad; it’s adaptable for any palate.
Simplicity: The steps are easy to follow, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced cooks.
Discover more delightful ingredients in our favorite chicken recipes that will bring even more flavor to your kitchen!
Chicken Exquisito Ingredients
Create a culinary masterpiece with these essential components!
For the Chicken
• Boneless skinless chicken breast halves – perfect for a tender and juicy result.
• Kosher salt – enhances flavor; essential for seasoning the chicken.
• Freshly ground black pepper – adds a hint of spice to the dish.
For the Breading
• All-purpose flour – provides a delightful crunch to the chicken.
• Large eggs – help the flour adhere perfectly for a crispy coating.
• Whole milk – adds richness to the egg wash, enhancing flavor.
For the Sauce
• Extra virgin olive oil – contributes to a luscious sauce and perfectly fried chicken.
• Cold butter – makes the sauce creamy and adds depth.
• Fresh garlic – infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
• Good quality brandy – adds complexity and a delightful warmth.
• Good quality sweet Marsala wine – enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
• Low sodium chicken stock – keeps the sauce savory without overwhelming saltiness.
For the Topping
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – melts perfectly to create a deliciously gooey layer.
• Fresh parsley – adds a pop of color and a fresh finish.
• Lemon wedges – brightens the dish with a refreshing zing.
These Chicken Exquisito ingredients are not just staples; they’re the foundation of a meal that will wow your family and friends!
How to Make Chicken Exquisito
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Cook pasta: If serving with pasta, follow box directions, boil, then cool the pasta in cold water. Set aside until you’re ready to serve this delicious Chicken Exquisito.
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Preheat oven: Set your oven to 200°F to keep the chicken warm while you fry it. This step will ensure that your chicken stays nice and toasty for serving.
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Prepare chicken: Butterfly each chicken breast half, splitting it into two even portions. Season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor beautifully.
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Set up breading: In a large flat bowl, pour in the all-purpose flour, establishing your crunchiest coating.
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Make egg wash: In another bowl, beat together six large eggs and the whole milk. This mixture will help the flour stick to the chicken!
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Bread the chicken: Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip in the egg mixture, and back into the flour. Ensure to press the flour onto the chicken before transferring it to a cutting board for maximum coating.
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Heat oil: In a large heavy skillet, warm four tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This ensures perfectly crispy chicken!
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Fry chicken: Cook three pieces of breaded chicken for about two minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a sheet tray and place in the oven. Repeat with remaining chicken, adding more oil as needed.
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Clean the skillet: Carefully wipe out the skillet with paper towels, avoiding contact with the hot surface, preparing it to create a flavorful sauce.
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Add garlic: In the same skillet, add one tablespoon of olive oil and one tablespoon of cold butter without turning on the burner. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant.
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Deglaze with alcohol: Pour in the brandy and sweet Marsala wine, turning the burner to medium-high heat. Reduce the liquid until it reaches about ½ cup, which should take around five minutes.
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Combine stock: Add the low sodium chicken stock, bring it to a boil, then let it simmer on medium-low for five minutes. This creates a deliciously rich sauce.
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Finish the sauce: Turn off the burner and add six tablespoons of cold butter. Stir to melt the butter into the sauce, giving it a creaminess that perfectly complements the chicken.
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Broil chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and set the oven to broil. Pour the delectable sauce over the chicken and evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella on top.
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Melt cheese: Broil the chicken for about two minutes until the cheese melts and starts to bubble and brown tantalizingly.
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Serve: Plate the chicken over your drained pasta, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and don’t forget a lemon wedge per portion for that pop of freshness.
Optional: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken right before serving for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Helpful Tricks for Chicken Exquisito
Proper Butterflying: Ensure your chicken is evenly butterflied to achieve consistent cooking. This prevents overcooking some parts while others remain underdone.
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with your salt and pepper! Seasoning the chicken well enhances the overall flavor of your Chicken Exquisito, making it irresistible.
Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature before frying; too hot and the coating burns, too cool and it becomes greasy. Ideally, it should be around 350°F.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry chicken in batches to keep the temperature stable. Overcrowding can lead to soggy, less crispy chicken.
Sauce Consistency: Allow your sauce to reduce properly for that perfect velvety texture. If it’s too watery, your Chicken Exquisito won’t achieve its full flavor potential.
Garnish Brightly: Just before serving, garnishing with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon elevates flavors and adds a beautiful presentation.
What to Serve with Chicken Exquisito?
Let’s create a delicious dining experience that your family and friends will love!
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture complements the crispy chicken beautifully, soaking up the rich sauce. An absolute comfort food classic!
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Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy and warm, these breadsticks provide a delightful balance to the dish. They’re perfect for mopping up the silky sauce left on your plate.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and crunchy croutons, tossed with tangy dressing. This fresh salad adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty chicken.
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Roasted Asparagus: This green side adds a touch of elegance with its earthy flavor and slight crunch. Drizzle with olive oil for fantastic taste and color!
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Steamed Broccoli: Tender broccoli florets provide a pop of color and essential nutrients, balancing the richness of the chicken exquisito.
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Pasta Primavera: Vibrant seasonal vegetables mixed with pasta create a lovely, light side that pairs perfectly with your main dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
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Sweet Marsala Wine: A glass of this wine enhances the sweetness of the dish and mirrors the Marsala in the sauce, making for an elevated dining experience.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this refreshing sorbet cleanses the palate and offers a sweet finish after the savory meal—perfect for spring or summer evenings!
Let your taste buds embark on a gourmet journey with these incredible pairings!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Exquisito
Fridge: Keep any leftover Chicken Exquisito in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures it stays fresh and flavorful, ready for a quick meal!
Freezer: To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label it for easy identification later!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring the cheese is nice and melty.
Storage Tip: Always keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain the texture and flavor of your Chicken Exquisito!
Chicken Exquisito Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these tempting twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a crunchy coating without the gluten.
- Herb-Infused: Add minced fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the flour for an aromatic flavor boost. The herbs will elevate the chicken, making it even more delightful.
- Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes in the egg wash for a hint of heat that pairs wonderfully with the sauce. Just a small amount can transform the dish!
- Crispy Topping: For extra crunch, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the mozzarella cheese before broiling. This creates a deliciously crispy and golden crust that you’ll adore.
- Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique flavor twist. Each cheese brings its own character, making the dish versatile!
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the cheese topping for a burst of color and nutrition. They add richness while enhancing the flavors of the chicken.
- Citrus Zest: Grate some lemon or orange zest into the sauce for a fresh, zesty twist that brightens the dish beautifully. A touch of citrus makes it feel lively and refreshing!
- Creamy Upgrade: For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream at the end to create a luscious, velvety finish. This addition enhances the indulgence!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Exquisito are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bread the chicken and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to save time on busy weeknights. Additionally, prepare the sauce by sautéing the garlic and deglazing with brandy and Marsala wine, then refrigerate it for up to 3 days—just be sure to reheat gently to maintain its rich flavor and texture. When ready to serve, simply fry the breaded chicken, broil with the sauce and mozzarella for a deliciously melty topping, and enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Chicken Exquisito Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Chicken Exquisito?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breast halves are ideal for this recipe. They cook quickly and remain juicy, allowing the delicious sauce to enhance their flavor. If you prefer dark meat, boneless thighs can work as well.
How should I store leftover Chicken Exquisito?
Keep any leftover Chicken Exquisito in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures it retains its flavor and texture, making for a quick and tasty meal later!
Can I freeze Chicken Exquisito?
Yes! To freeze, let the Chicken Exquisito cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It will maintain its quality for up to 3 months. Remember to label it with the date so you don’t forget!
How do I reheat frozen Chicken Exquisito?
When you’re ready to enjoy your Chicken Exquisito, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the Chicken Exquisito in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to keep moisture in, and heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through. This will keep the cheese melty and the chicken moist!
What if my sauce is too watery?
Very! If you find your sauce is too thin, simply return it to the stovetop on medium heat. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce further, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. Adding a small pat of butter can also help thicken it slightly, enhancing the richness.
Is Chicken Exquisito safe for pets?
It’s best to avoid giving your furry friends any part of this dish. While chicken is generally safe for dogs, the seasoning, garlic, and alcohol used in this recipe can be harmful. Future pet-approved recipes include cooked plain chicken or rice!
Savor the Flavor: Chicken Exquisito for Your Dinner Table
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- If serving with pasta, follow box directions, boil, then cool the pasta in cold water. Set aside until you're ready to serve the Chicken Exquisito.
- Set your oven to 200°F to keep the chicken warm while you fry it.
- Butterfly each chicken breast half and season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- In a large flat bowl, pour in the all-purpose flour.
- In another bowl, beat together six large eggs and the whole milk.
- Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip in the egg mixture, and back into the flour.
- In a large heavy skillet, warm four tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook three pieces of breaded chicken for about two minutes per side until golden brown; repeat with remaining chicken.
- Carefully wipe out the skillet with paper towels.
- In the skillet, add one tablespoon of olive oil and one tablespoon of cold butter without turning on the burner. Add minced garlic and cook for about one minute.
- Pour in the brandy and sweet Marsala wine, reducing the liquid until it reaches about ½ cup.
- Add the low sodium chicken stock; bring to a boil and then simmer for five minutes.
- Turn off the burner and add six tablespoons of cold butter.
- Remove the chicken from the oven, set the oven to broil. Pour the sauce over the chicken, then evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella on top.
- Broil the chicken for about two minutes until the cheese melts and browns.
- Plate the chicken over pasta, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and add a lemon wedge per portion.