Tender Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala Recipe

Are you looking for a delicious and comforting meal that requires minimal effort? Look no further than Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala! This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeks when you crave something elegant and deeply flavorful. The magic of the slow cooker transforms simple ingredients like boneless, skinless chicken breasts and earthy mushrooms into a dish that will have your taste buds singing.

Picture this: the aroma of Marsala wine filling your kitchen as the slow cooker works its magic, creating a rich and savory sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken. It’s a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to any meal, reminiscent of cozy Sundays and family gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or new to slow cooking, this Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala is a foolproof way to impress your loved ones with minimal fuss.

Don’t forget to savor the leftovers, as the flavors only intensify overnight. Serve this chicken marsala over pasta, mashed potatoes, or creamy polenta for a satisfying meal any time of the year. So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a homemade meal that is both elegant and comforting – Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala is a must-try for any food lover!

Quick Benefits

• Tender results with boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
• Savory and earthy flavor profile from white button or cremini mushrooms.
• Juicy and tender chicken from slow cooking with sufficient broth and wine.
• Leftovers improve in flavor, making it an excellent make-ahead meal option.

Why You’ll Love This Tender Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala Recipe Recipe

• Elegant and Flavorful: Enjoy a comforting and elegant meal that is deeply flavorful, perfect for cozy nights in.
• Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does the work for you, transforming simple ingredients into a delicious dinner with very little effort.
• Aromatic Delight: The scent of Marsala wine perfumes the kitchen as it cooks, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the recipe with chicken thighs, different mushrooms, and various herbs based on your preferences.
• Leftovers Upgrade: The sauce improves overnight, making leftovers even tastier, perfect for a quick and delicious meal the next day.
• Seasonal Adaptability: This recipe is perfect for any season; you can switch up the vegetables to match the time of year and create a dish that suits your mood.
• Family Favorite: Loved by all, this slow cooker chicken marsala is a hit with friends and family alike, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings and busy weeknights.
• Freezer-Friendly: Prepare ahead by assembling in a freezer bag and freezing flat; thaw overnight for an easy meal on a busy weeknight.
• Tradition at Home: Bringing the tradition of Sicilian-inspired Chicken Marsala to your family dinner table, adding a touch of comfort and sophistication to any meal.

Ingredients for Tender Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala Recipe

Main

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Salt, to taste

Sauce

• 1 cup Marsala wine
• 1 cup chicken broth

Pro Tips for Tender Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala Recipe

Pro tip 1: For maximum flavor infusion, lightly sear the chicken breasts in a hot skillet with olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker. This step helps lock in juices and adds a nice caramelization to the chicken.

Pro tip 2: To intensify the Marsala flavor, consider reducing the wine in a saucepan before adding it to the slow cooker. This concentrates the liquid and enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Pro tip 3: To thicken the sauce at the end of cooking, create a slurry of cornstarch and water, then stir it into the slow cooker for a velvety texture. Adjust the consistency to your preference by adding more or less slurry.

How to Make Tender Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala Recipe

Step 1: Brown Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear until golden on both sides for about 2–3 minutes per side.

Step 2: Arrange Chicken in Slow Cooker

Place the seared chicken breasts in the slow cooker in a single layer.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Mushrooms

In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and sliced mushrooms over medium heat until mushrooms are tender and slightly browned, about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Deglaze and Prepare Sauce

Add Marsala wine and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to scrape up any browned bits. Simmer gently.

Step 5: Combine and Slow Cook

Evenly distribute the wine-mushroom mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Move the chicken and sauce to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Storage Tips

After preparing Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors in the dish actually improve overnight, making the leftovers even tastier. To reheat, use a low microwave power or gently warm in a covered saucepan with a splash of chicken broth to ensure the dish remains juicy. If you enjoy this dish for lunch, consider freezing portions in containers for easy reheating later.

For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and Marsala wine in this recipe. However, you can substitute with dry sherry or Madeira if needed, though the flavor may vary slightly. Additionally, white button or cremini mushrooms work well in this dish, providing a savory and earthy element. Enjoy your Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala with buttered noodles, mashed potatoes, or creamy polenta, and don’t forget to garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an extra special touch.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in this slow cooker chicken Marsala recipe. They will become tender and flavorful after slow cooking.

While Marsala wine is traditional and adds a unique flavor profile to the dish, if you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute it with dry sherry or Madeira. These alternatives will change the taste slightly but will still provide a delicious result.

If you’re looking to enhance the earthy notes in the dish, you can use cremini mushrooms instead of white button mushrooms. They will add a deeper, more robust flavor to the chicken Marsala. Be sure to slice them and add them to the slow cooker as directed for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try serving your Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala over a bed of creamy mashed butternut squash or sweet potato puree for a comforting twist. The velvety texture of the squash complements the rich and flavorful Marsala sauce, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or crispy fried sage leaves for an extra touch of elegance.

Another unique serving idea is to transform your Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala into a hearty and satisfying pot pie filling. Simply spoon the chicken and mushroom mixture into individual ramekins or a large baking dish, top with a layer of buttery puff pastry or flaky pie crust, and bake until golden and bubbling. The buttery pastry adds a delicious crunch to the tender chicken and savory sauce, creating a comforting dish perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering.

FAQs for Tender Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala Recipe

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a richer result.

Can I substitute Marsala wine with something else if I don’t have it?

For an alcohol-free version, you can use extra chicken broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar or white grape juice, although the flavor profile will be slightly different.

How long can I store the cooked chicken and sauce in the refrigerator?

You can store the cooked chicken and sauce in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving to retain the flavors and textures.

Can I freeze this dish for later consumption?

Yes, you can freeze this slow cooker chicken marsala. Assemble everything in a freezer bag raw, freeze flat, and thaw overnight before slow cooking as directed. Add mushrooms on the day you cook for the best texture.

Conclusion

I hope this Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine. The aroma of Marsala wine and tender chicken cooking slowly will make your home feel warm and inviting. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxing weekend, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite seasonal vegetables or a twist to make it your own.

Remember, the beauty of slow cooking lies not just in the convenience but also in the depth of flavors it creates. So take your time, savor each step, and relish the delicious outcome of your efforts. Share this delightful Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala with your family and friends, and create lasting memories around the dining table. Enjoy the process as much as the meal itself, and let the magic of homemade comfort food bring joy to your home.