This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala is all about tender chicken soaked in a delicious sauce made with mushrooms and sweet Marsala wine. It’s the perfect comfort meal!
I love how simple it is to make. Just toss the ingredients in and let the slow cooker do its magic. Dinner is served without any fuss! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for a tender finish. However, you can substitute with thighs if you prefer darker meat; they will give a richer flavor.
Marsala Wine: This sweet wine is key for flavor. If you don’t have it, try using a mix of white grape juice with a splash of vinegar or chicken broth. It’s not the same, but it can work in a pinch!
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their deeper flavor, but regular white button mushrooms are just fine too. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you could leave them out entirely or use diced bell peppers as an alternative.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt levels in the dish. You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken in a slow cooker is great because it becomes super tender. Here are some tips to ensure perfect results:
- Sear the Chicken: Browning the chicken first adds flavor and keeps it juicy. Don’t skip this step!
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cooking times. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Using a meat thermometer is a smart way to check for doneness (165°F).
- Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking in the pot. This allows the juices to redistribute for a moist bite.
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 oz cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup Marsala wine
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice or mashed potatoes (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Marsala takes about 10 minutes to prep, and then it cooks in the slow cooker. You’ll need a total of around 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day when you want a comforting meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Dredge the Chicken:
First, sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper to taste. Next, dredge them in flour, making sure to shake off any excess. This will help create a nice crust when we brown the chicken!
2. Brown the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown. After browning, carefully transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they are softened and lightly browned. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking. This step builds fantastic flavor!
4. Add the Sauce Ingredients:
Now, pour in the Marsala wine and chicken broth, scraping up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Add the dried thyme and stir everything together deliciously.
5. Combine with Chicken:
Pour the mushroom and Marsala sauce over the browned chicken in the slow cooker, making sure the chicken is well-coated.
6. Slow Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken will be tender and bursting with flavor when it’s done!
7. Final Touches:
Once cooked, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed with a bit more salt and pepper. It’s time to get ready to serve!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the chicken and mushrooms over your choice of cooked white rice or creamy mashed potatoes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a lovely touch. Enjoy your delicious meal!
This recipe yields tender chicken breasts infused with a rich Marsala mushroom sauce, perfect for an easy, comforting meal with minimal effort!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Once thawed, proceed with the recipe as usual.
What Can I Substitute for Marsala Wine?
If you don’t have Marsala wine, you can substitute it with a mix of white grape juice and a splash of vinegar, or you could use chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option. The flavor will be different, but it will still be tasty!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave gently or warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, bell peppers, or peas to the slow cooker along with the chicken and sauce. Just keep in mind that some veggies may cook faster than others, so adjust the cooking time if needed.
