Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with the rich flavors of Marsala wine and earthy mushrooms. The beautiful golden-brown color and the luscious cream sauce create a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. It’s perfect for family dinners, entertaining guests, or even a cozy weeknight meal.

As the chicken slowly simmers in the crockpot, the aroma fills your kitchen, promising a comforting and satisfying experience. In this article, you’ll discover step-by-step instructions, ingredient details, and tips for serving this flavorful Chicken Marsala. Let’s dive into the delicious world of this easy-to-make recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: Uses simple, wholesome components for maximum flavor.
Ease of Preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic.
Nutrition: A balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and healthy fats.
Versatility: Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to special gatherings.
Presentation: Serves beautifully over pasta or rice, looking elegant and appetizing.

You’ll love how this dish delights both the palate and the eyes!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 6-7 hours
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala, select the right ingredients:

Main Protein

Chicken Breasts: Use 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs) to ensure they cook evenly and remain tender.
Preparation: Trim any excess fat and pat them dry.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, chicken thighs offer richer flavor and stay moist when cooked.
Tip: Avoid overcooking to prevent dry chicken.

Aromatics & Vegetables

Garlic: 3 cloves of fresh garlic, minced, for a fragrant base.
Mushrooms: 8 oz of sliced cremini mushrooms add depth to the dish.
Preparation: Clean and slice the mushrooms; mincing garlic enhances its flavor.
Substitutions: If you can’t find cremini, white button mushrooms work well too.
Tip: Sautéing the mushrooms can intensify their flavor.

Liquids/Dairy

Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce for umami flavor.
Chicken Broth: 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth ensures a hearty base.
Marsala Wine: 1/2 cup adds sweetness and depth.
Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup for a luxurious, creamy finish.
Preparation: Measure accurately for the best flavor outcome.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative to Marsala, dry sherry could work in a pinch.
Tip: Choose a quality wine for the best taste.

Seasoning/Spice Blend

Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing all the other flavors.
Preparation: Season generously without oversalting.
Tip: Always start with less salt—it’s easier to add more later.

Optional Finishing Ingredients

Olive Oil: 2 tbsp for sautéing the garlic and mushrooms at the start for enhanced flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe is designed for easy, one-pan preparation, making it perfect for busy days.

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic and Mushrooms

Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the sliced mushrooms. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they soften. This step helps to build the flavor base of your dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While your garlic and mushrooms are cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of your crockpot.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Once the mushrooms are cooked, layer them over the chicken in the crockpot. Pour the soy sauce, chicken broth, Marsala wine, and heavy cream over everything. Stir slightly to combine, but don’t disturb the chicken too much.

Step 4: Set the Crockpot

Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

After the cooking time, check the chicken for doneness. It should be tender and easily shred with a fork. If it’s not quite there yet, let it cook for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once done, serve the chicken and sauce over your choice of pasta or rice for a complete meal. The creamy sauce and mushrooms pair perfectly with the starchy base.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and savor the deliciousness of your Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala!

How to Serve

Presentation: Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of fresh pasta or fluffy rice for a beautiful display.
Accompaniments: Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Portions: This recipe serves about 4 people, making it ideal for family dinners.
Beverage Pairing: A glass of fruity red wine complements the dish wonderfully.

This meal is sure to impress!

Additional Tips

Flavor Enhancement: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Customization: Feel free to add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for more variation.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Recipe Variations

Italian Herb Chicken Marsala: Add dried herbs like oregano and basil for an Italian twist.
Mushroom Medley: Use a variety of mushrooms such as shiitake or portabella for different textures and flavors.
Creamy Garlic Marsala: Increase the cream for an even richer sauce, perfect for those who love creamy dishes.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment

Crockpot or slow cooker
Skillet for sautéing
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board and knife
Tongs or a fork for serving

FAQ’s

Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly, adding an extra hour to cooking time.
Is this dish healthy? It can be healthy! Chicken is lean protein, and using low-sodium ingredients keeps it lighter.
Can I make it ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator overnight before adding them to the crockpot.
Can I customize the flavors? Yes, adding different herbs, spices, or vegetables can tailor the dish to your taste.
Can I prepare it on the stovetop? Yes, you can sauté the ingredients in a pot and simmer them until cooked through for a quicker version.

Conclusion

Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala combines convenience with incredible flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks. Its balance of creamy, savory, and earthy notes will delight everyone at the table, while the simple preparation makes it accessible for all skill levels. So gather your ingredients and get ready to serve a dish that’s sure to impress!