There’s a certain warmth that fills the kitchen when dinner is bubbling away in the slow cooker. The moment I walked in and caught that savory aroma wafting through the air, I knew I had stumbled upon a dish that would become a cherished family favorite: Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala. Imagine tender chicken breasts simmering for hours in a luscious mushroom and marsala wine sauce, the kind of comforting meal that wraps you in a cozy embrace after a long day.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a delightful combination of ease and elegance, transforming humble ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish without any fuss. With minimal prep time and a hands-off cooking approach, you have more time to unwind and enjoy the little moments. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone just looking to elevate your dinner game, this dish is your ticket to satisfying those cravings for comforting Italian cuisine, right at home. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to impress without the stress!
Why is Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala a must-try?
Simplicity: Effortlessly prepare a gourmet meal with just a few simple steps.
Aromatic: The enchanting scent of marsala wine and garlic fills your home, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Tender Texture: Slow cooking ensures your chicken is moist and falls apart with the slightest touch.
Versatility: Customize with your favorite vegetables or serve with various sides like rice or orzo.
Family-Friendly: This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for enticing even the pickiest eaters at the table.
Meal Prep: Make it ahead for hassle-free dinners throughout the week—check out some clever storage tips to keep your dishes fresh!
Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this comforting dish!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless are recommended for tenderness and easy cooking.
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps in browning the chicken for added flavor.
For the Sauce
- Minced Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; don’t skip this ingredient for maximum flavor!
- Marsala Wine – The key flavor contributor that adds a sweet, nutty taste; try to use it for best results.
- Chicken Broth – Adds moisture; use low-sodium for a lighter dish if desired.
- Sliced Mushrooms – Adds earthiness and texture; cremini or button mushrooms are traditional choices.
For Thickening
- Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce to create a creamy consistency; can substitute with flour if necessary.
- Heavy Cream – Enriches the sauce; half and half can be used as a lighter alternative.
For Finishing Touches
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Chopped Parsley – Fresh garnish that adds color and a burst of freshness before serving.
With just these approachable ingredients, you’ll be on your way to enjoying a delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala that promises delightful flavors and satisfying comfort in every bite!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala
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Prepare the Chicken: Start by heating olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper to enhance flavor; this sets a delicious base for your dish.
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Brown the Chicken: Sear the chicken in the hot pan for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown. This step elevates the flavor, giving the chicken a rich, aromatic profile.
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Slow Cook: Place the browned chicken in your slow cooker, then add minced garlic, marsala wine, chicken broth, and sliced mushrooms. Cover and cook on LOW for about 5 hours, allowing the flavors to meld wonderfully.
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Thicken the Sauce: Once done, carefully remove the chicken. Whisk cornstarch with cold water, then stir into the sauce in the slow cooker. Return the chicken and switch to HIGH, cooking for an additional 30 minutes until the sauce is thickened to perfection.
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Final Touches: Stir in the heavy cream for a rich finish. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful touch!
Optional: Serve with mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala Variations
There’s something special about customizing a dish to fit your taste and dietary needs, making it even more enjoyable to savor each bite.
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Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a richer flavor and slightly juicier texture.
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Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative for a creamy sauce without dairy.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in additional vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for a colorful and nutritious addition.
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Low-Fat Option: Omit the heavy cream entirely and use low-fat yogurt or simply more chicken broth to lighten it up.
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Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch to thicken the sauce and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to introduce a delightful heat that complements the marsala flavors.
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Herb Enhancer: Infuse the dish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking for an aromatic twist that elevates the flavor profile.
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Wine Substitution: If you prefer not to use marsala wine, substitute with grape juice or apple cider for sweetness while maintaining a lovely depth of flavor.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your perfect version of Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala?
Transform your meal into a culinary masterpiece with these delightful pairings, each one designed to complement your savory creation.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture of mashed potatoes brilliantly absorbs the delicious marsala sauce, creating a comforting combination.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread offers a delightful crunch, perfect for sopping up every bit of that luscious sauce.
- Steamed Asparagus: This fresh and vibrant vegetable adds a lovely crunch and bright color, enhancing the dish’s overall appeal. Toss with a little olive oil and lemon for flavor.
- Orzo Pasta: Light and airy, orzo provides a beautiful base to soak up the rich sauce, making every bite a delight.
- Arugula Salad: A peppery salad with a light vinaigrette complements the savory notes of the marsala beautifully, adding freshness to your plate.
- Sauvignon Blanc: Serve a chilled glass of this crisp white wine; its acidity balances out the richness of the sauce, creating an idyllic pairing.
- Antipasto Platter: Start your meal with a colorful assortment of cured meats, cheeses, and olives that complements the Italian roots of the main dish.
- Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a light, airy chocolate mousse that contrasts the savory meal, offering a perfect finish to your dining experience.
Helpful Tricks for Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala
• Browning Matters: Searing the chicken before slow cooking enhances flavor significantly, so don’t skip this crucial step!
• Thickening Tip: For a luscious sauce, whisk cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the slow cooker to prevent lumps.
• Time Adjustments: If using chicken thighs, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they can require a bit more time to become tender.
• Flavor Boost: For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar to your Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala.
• Taste Test: Always taste the sauce before serving! Adjust salt and pepper to ensure the perfect seasoning balance.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to retain the creamy texture of the sauce.
Meal Prep: This Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to make a batch ahead of time for convenient, delicious dinners throughout the week.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify mealtime! You can marinate and sear the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; just brown it and let it cool before refrigerating. In addition, the marsala wine sauce can be prepared ahead of time—combine the garlic, broth, and mushrooms, then refrigerate this mixture for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, place everything in the slow cooker and proceed as directed. To maintain that rich flavor and tender texture, store in airtight containers, and allow the sauce to thicken just before serving. Enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, use boneless and skinless chicken breasts, as they remain tender and juicy during cooking. If you prefer a richer flavor and slightly different texture, you can also use boneless chicken thighs. Just keep in mind that thighs may benefit from a longer cooking time.
How do I store leftovers of Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala?
Very simple! Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring to stir occasionally for even warming.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer to a sealed container or freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on low heat to preserve that creamy sauce’s texture.
What if my sauce doesn’t thicken properly?
Don’t worry! If you find that your sauce isn’t thickening as expected, whisk a bit more cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then stir it back into the sauce. Cook on HIGH for an additional 30 minutes. This method not only thickens quickly but does so without forming clumps!
Are there dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily modify the recipe. For those avoiding alcohol, substitute marsala wine with additional chicken broth, though the flavor will slightly differ. Additionally, for lactose sensitivity, you might want to use a non-dairy cream alternative or skip the cream altogether for a lighter dish.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Chicken Marsala?
Very good question! To elevate the flavors further, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or soy sauce to the sauce. You could also toss in some fresh spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition, making your dish even more delightful and colorful!
Savory Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala for Effortless Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Place the browned chicken in the slow cooker with garlic, marsala wine, broth, and mushrooms. Cover and cook on LOW for 5 hours.
- Remove chicken and whisk cornstarch with cold water, stir into sauce. Return chicken and switch to HIGH for 30 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.