Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala is the perfect slow cooker dinner when you want something comforting, flavorful, and effortless. This classic Italian-inspired dish features tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich mushroom sauce with garlic, herbs, and a savory Marsala-style flavor. The slow cooking process allows every ingredient to blend beautifully, creating a silky sauce that tastes like it took hours of hands-on work—when in reality, your crockpot does most of the job. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or hosting friends, this recipe delivers impressive flavor with minimal effort.
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Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken Marsala
This recipe is wonderfully hands-off. Once everything goes into the slow cooker, you can focus on your day while the flavors develop slowly and naturally. The chicken turns incredibly tender, soaking up the savory mushroom sauce. The sauce itself is rich without being too heavy, making it perfect for serving over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. It’s also easy to customize based on what you have in your kitchen. Plus, this version includes simple substitutions to keep it family-friendly while still delivering that signature Marsala-inspired taste.
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Marsala
Main Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and black pepper to taste
3 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup Marsala wine (or substitution below)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
½ cup heavy cream (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Ingredient Notes
If you prefer to avoid alcohol, replace the Marsala wine with 1 additional cup of chicken broth plus 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice or mild balsamic vinegar. This keeps the depth of flavor while making the dish suitable for everyone at the table. For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk. You can also use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts if you prefer a richer cut of meat. Fresh mushrooms give the best texture, but cremini mushrooms add an even deeper flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in a single layer at the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they are evenly spaced for consistent cooking.
Step 2 – Add the Flavor Base
Scatter the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic over the chicken. Pour the chicken broth and Marsala wine (or broth substitute) evenly over the top. The liquid should partially cover the chicken to keep it moist during cooking.
Step 3 – Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Avoid opening the lid too often, as this releases heat and can extend cooking time.
Step 4 – Thicken the Sauce
Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and set it aside on a plate. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker liquid. Turn the heat to high and cook for 15–20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 5 – Finish and Serve
If using cream, stir it into the thickened sauce for extra richness. Return the chicken to the slow cooker and spoon sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
Sear the chicken in a skillet for 2–3 minutes per side before adding it to the crockpot for deeper flavor and better texture.
Slice mushrooms evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Use low heat for the most tender results; high heat can cause the chicken to dry out.
Taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of warm broth to loosen it.
Flavor Variations
Add fresh thyme or rosemary for an herbal twist.
Stir in a handful of spinach at the end for extra color and nutrition.
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
Add caramelized onions for a slightly sweeter, deeper flavor.
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top before serving for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
Crockpot Chicken Marsala pairs beautifully with buttery mashed potatoes, which soak up the savory sauce. It’s also delicious served over egg noodles, fettuccine, or fluffy white rice. For a lighter option, try serving it with cauliflower mash or steamed green beans on the side. A simple garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish. Warm crusty bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce. To freeze, allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala – Amazing Flavor
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala is the perfect slow cooker dinner when you want something comforting, flavorful, and effortless. Tender chicken breasts simmer in a rich mushroom sauce with garlic and herbs, creating a silky, Marsala-inspired dish with minimal hands-on work.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup Marsala wine (or 1 cup chicken broth + 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and place in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic over the chicken.
- Pour chicken broth and Marsala wine evenly over the top.
- Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours until chicken is tender.
- Remove chicken and mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry.
- Stir slurry into slow cooker and cook on high 15–20 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Stir in heavy cream if using.
- Return chicken to slow cooker and spoon sauce over top.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Notes
For deeper flavor, sear the chicken before adding to the slow cooker. Use cremini mushrooms for a richer taste and cook on low for the most tender results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
FAQ About Crockpot Chicken Marsala
Can I make Crockpot Chicken Marsala without wine?
Yes, you can easily replace the wine with chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice or mild vinegar. This keeps the dish flavorful while making it alcohol-free. The slight acidity helps mimic the depth that Marsala wine provides.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs are slightly more forgiving and stay juicy during long cooking times. They also add a richer flavor to the sauce. Adjust cooking time if needed, but generally the timing remains similar.
How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
Cooking on low heat and ensuring enough liquid surrounds the chicken are key. Avoid overcooking by checking for doneness around the 4-hour mark. Using thighs instead of breasts can also help maintain moisture.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble everything in the slow cooker insert the night before and refrigerate it. In the morning, place it in the crockpot base and start cooking. This makes it perfect for busy days.
What mushrooms work best?
Cremini mushrooms provide a deeper, earthier flavor, while white button mushrooms offer a milder taste. You can even mix varieties for added complexity.
Final Thoughts
Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala – Amazing Flavor truly lives up to its name. It’s comforting, elegant, and simple enough for any night of the week. The slow cooker transforms everyday ingredients into a rich, satisfying meal that feels special without requiring complicated steps. With easy substitutions and versatile serving options, this recipe is sure to become a reliable favorite in your dinner rotation.