Chicken Marsala (Slow Cooker)

It’s time to discover an easy and delicious way to bring classic Italian flavors into your kitchen with this Chicken Marsala (Slow Cooker) recipe. Perfect for busy days or cozy dinners, this hands-off dish offers tender chicken breasts bathed in a rich, savory mushroom and Marsala wine sauce. The slow cooker does all the magic, infusing every bite with incredible flavor while keeping your day free of kitchen fuss. Get ready for a comforting meal that’s both simple to make and impressively satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Simple Prep: Minimal chopping and straightforward ingredients make this recipe foolproof even on hectic days.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you focus on other tasks.
• Rich, Authentic Flavor: The Marsala wine combined with mushrooms creates a deep, savory sauce that tastes like it came straight from Italy.
• Perfectly Tender Chicken: Slow cooking ensures juicy, melt-in-your-mouth chicken every time.
• Versatile Meal: Pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a well-rounded dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Chicken Marsala (Slow Cooker) meal comes together with simple, common ingredients that each bring essential layers of flavor, texture, and color. From fresh mushrooms to fragrant herbs and creamy wine sauce, every component has a purpose.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, perfect for even cooking and soaking up sauce.
• Cremini or button mushrooms: These provide an earthy, meaty texture and boost umami flavor.
• Marsala wine: A key ingredient that gives the sauce its signature slightly sweet and nutty taste.
• Chicken broth: Enhances the moisture and helps create a luscious sauce base.
• Butter and olive oil: Used for sautéing mushrooms and starting the sauce with richness.
• Garlic and shallots: Aromatics that add subtle complexity and depth.
• Fresh parsley: A bright garnish to lift the finished dish with freshness.
• Flour or cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce to perfect consistency without heaviness.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all other flavors.

Variations for Chicken Marsala (Slow Cooker)

One of the best things about this Chicken Marsala (Slow Cooker) recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with these variations and make it truly yours.

• Vegetarian twist: Replace chicken with thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms for a meatless alternative.
• Low-carb option: Skip flour and thicken the sauce with xanthan gum or reduce the broth for a richer texture.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce during cooking for a subtle heat.
• Herb infusion: Swap parsley for fresh thyme or rosemary to add different herbal notes.
• Dairy-free: Use olive oil instead of butter and substitute with coconut cream for a creamy texture.

How to Make Chicken Marsala (Slow Cooker)

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by slicing your mushrooms and mincing garlic and shallots. Pat the chicken breasts dry, then season them generously with salt and pepper. This foundation sets the stage for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms and Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add the mushrooms, garlic, and shallots, sautéing until the mushrooms are golden and fragrant. This step develops deep flavors that a slow cooker alone can’t achieve.

Step 3: Layer Chicken and Mushrooms in the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Spoon the sautéed mushrooms and aromatics evenly over the top, ensuring every piece is generously coated.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Cook

Pour the Marsala wine and chicken broth over the chicken and mushrooms. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for about 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Once cooking is complete, remove the chicken and keep warm. Mix flour or cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry, then stir into the slow cooker sauce. Let it cook on high uncovered for 10-15 minutes until thickened.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Return chicken to the sauce briefly to coat, then plate and garnish with fresh parsley for a beautiful finishing touch.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Marsala (Slow Cooker)

• Dry chicken well: Removes excess moisture to help seasonings stick better and improve browning before slow cooking.
• Don’t skip sautéing: Browning mushrooms and shallots adds richness and prevents a bland slow cooker sauce.
• Use good-quality Marsala: It directly impacts the depth and authenticity of flavor.
• Control sauce thickness: Add thickener gradually and cook uncovered to avoid an overly gloopy sauce.
• Check chicken doneness early: Overcooked poultry can dry out even in slow cookers.

How to Serve Chicken Marsala (Slow Cooker)

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley isn’t just for looks; it adds a refreshing herbal brightness that balances the rich sauce. For a little extra flair, consider a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Marsala (Slow Cooker) pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or even a simple risotto. Add a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for color and texture contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style meal, serve directly from the slow cooker with warm, crusty bread for dipping. Alternatively, plate individual servings atop a bed of linguine or sautéed spinach for a restaurant-quality presentation at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool leftover Chicken Marsala (Slow Cooker) completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! Pack portions into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. Chicken Marsala can be frozen for up to 3 months without a loss of taste or texture.

Reheating

Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator for best results. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this slow cooker recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by about 1 to 2 hours on low to ensure they cook through safely and remain tender.

What can I substitute for Marsala wine if I don’t have it?

If Marsala isn’t available, dry sherry or a combination of red or white wine with a splash of balsamic vinegar works as a good alternative to mimic the flavor profile.

Is it okay to use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs add extra juiciness and richness, cooking beautifully in the slow cooker without drying out.

How thick should the sauce be?

The sauce should coat the back of a spoon without being runny or too gelatinous; adjust thickener quantities and cooking times to achieve your preferred consistency.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour to thicken the sauce, and double-check your broth and other ingredients for gluten content.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Marsala (Slow Cooker) recipe is a game-changer for anyone craving a comforting Italian dinner without hours of kitchen prep. It’s full of rich, layered flavors and tender chicken that feels truly special yet is incredibly easy to make. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or anytime you want a delicious meal with minimal effort.

Related Posts

• Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
• Rosemary Garlic Dinner Rolls
• Dinner Rolls

Print