Crockpot Chicken Marsala

Crockpot Chicken Marsala is a flavorful, fuss-free version of the classic Italian-American dish. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked in a rich Marsala wine and mushroom sauce, resulting in a comforting and elegant meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Set-It-and-Forget-It: Let the slow cooker do the work while you go about your day.
• Deep, Savory Flavor: Marsala wine, mushrooms, and garlic infuse the chicken with rich taste.
• Tender and Juicy Chicken: Slow cooking ensures melt-in-your-mouth results.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve it over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread.
• Minimal Prep: Requires less than 15 minutes to get it into the crockpot.

Ingredients

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

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (baby bella or cremini)
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 cup sweet Marsala wine (or substitute with low-sodium chicken broth for non-alcoholic version)
• ½ cup water
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (optional for searing)
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. Optional Sear: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear in a skillet with olive oil for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown (optional for extra flavor).
2. Add to Crockpot: Place chicken in the bottom of a lightly greased slow cooker. Add mushrooms and garlic on top.
3. Pour in Wine: Pour Marsala wine over the chicken and mushrooms.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours, or until chicken is tender.
5. Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth. Remove chicken from the slow cooker, stir in the slurry, then return chicken to the pot.
6. Finish Cooking: Cover and cook on high for 20–30 minutes more, until sauce thickens.
7. Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve over pasta, rice, or potatoes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5–6 hours on low (+ 20–30 minutes on high)
• Total Time: About 6 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Creamy Version: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream during the final 20 minutes for a rich, creamy sauce.
• Use Chicken Thighs: Boneless thighs work well and stay juicy.
• Herb Boost: Add a sprig of thyme or rosemary during cooking for extra depth.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Add spinach or asparagus during the last 30 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different wine?

Sweet Marsala wine is traditional, but dry Marsala or even a dry white wine can work in a pinch.

What can I use instead of wine?

Use chicken broth with a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar effect.

Do I have to brown the chicken first?

No, but it adds flavor. You can skip this step for convenience.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, ensure the cornstarch and wine (or broth) are gluten-free.

What mushrooms work best?

Baby bella, cremini, or white mushrooms are all good options.

Can I add cream cheese?

Yes, for a tangy twist, stir in a few tablespoons during the last 20 minutes.

What sides go well with this?

Mashed potatoes, egg noodles, risotto, or garlic bread are all excellent pairings.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes, cool completely and freeze with sauce in a sealed container.

How do I avoid overcooked chicken?

Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken when it reaches 165°F internally.

Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s best to thaw chicken before slow cooking for food safety and even cooking.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Marsala brings all the elegance of the traditional dish with none of the fuss. It’s flavorful, rich, and perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. With its tender chicken and savory sauce, this slow-cooker recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

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