Substitute for Marsala Wine
A fortified Italian wine used in chicken Marsala, tiramisu, and cream sauces.
The Best Substitute
The Professor's top pick for replacing marsala wine is Chicken Broth + Balsamic Vinegar at a ratio of 3/4 cup chicken broth + 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar + 1 teaspoon brown sugar = 1 cup Marsala wine. This works well for chicken Marsala, mushroom sauces, pan sauces. Scroll down for complete details on every option, including what to use each one for and what to avoid.
Best Substitutes
Chicken Broth + Balsamic Vinegar
Flavor impact: Provides the savory depth and slight sweetness without the wine's specific character. Works well in savory dishes.
Dairy-free
For chicken Marsala, the broth + balsamic + brown sugar combination captures the sweet-savory balance. It will not be identical but the dish will still be excellent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cooking Marsala has added salt and preservatives and is lower quality. Real Marsala wine is always preferred for cooking. Buy an inexpensive bottle; you only need a cup per recipe.
The Bottom Line
If you are out of marsala wine, the best all-around substitute is chicken broth + balsamic vinegar. Pay attention to the ratio, since substitutes rarely work at exactly 1:1. Consider what role marsala wine plays in your recipe; whether it provides flavor, texture, acidity, or structure; and choose the substitute that best fills that specific role. When in doubt, start with less and adjust to taste.
Source: Culinary reference | Last verified: March 19, 2026 | Our methodology