The aroma of tender chicken simmering in a rich Marsala wine sauce will whisk you away to an Italian trattoria, where every bite dances on your palate. Imagine the juicy chicken soaking up the flavors, mingling with earthy mushrooms and fragrant herbs—could there be anything better?
Now, if you’re anything like me, the thought of spending hours in the kitchen is about as appealing as a root canal. That’s where my Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala comes into play. With just a few simple ingredients and zero fuss, you’ll have a gourmet meal waiting for you after a long day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala makes weeknight dinners effortless while delivering a deliciously rich flavor
- The vibrant colors and aromas elevate your dinner table to restaurant status
- You can serve it over pasta, rice, or veggies for versatility that suits all tastes
- Plus, the leftovers (if any) are even better the next day!
Ingredients for Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: For this recipe, I recommend using about 3-4 chicken breasts to ensure everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Fresh Mushrooms: Use sliced cremini or button mushrooms for their robust flavor; they add an earthy depth to the dish.
Fresh Garlic: About four cloves will enhance the aroma and taste—don’t skimp on this!
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: This keeps the dish flavorful without overwhelming saltiness; trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
For the Sauce:
Sweet Marsala Wine: A must-have ingredient that adds sweetness and complexity; opt for a good-quality bottle.
Olive Oil: Just a tablespoon helps to sauté those garlic cloves and create a lovely base for your sauce.
Dried Oregano: A sprinkle here or there will transport your dish straight to Italy; it’s not optional!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala
Let’s get cooking—don’t worry; I won’t judge if you sneak a bite before it’s done!
Preparing Your Ingredients
Start by slicing your mushrooms and mincing those garlic cloves until your kitchen smells like heaven. This step sets up an aromatic symphony that will make your neighbors wonder what deliciousness is happening inside.
Searing Your Chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken breasts until golden brown on each side—about three minutes per side. This creates a crust that locks in moisture and flavor; trust me, it’s worth it!
Combining Ingredients in the Crockpot
Transfer your seared chicken into the crockpot alongside those heavenly mushrooms and garlic. Pour in chicken broth and sweet Marsala wine like you’re creating liquid gold. Don’t forget to sprinkle oregano on top because we want that Italian flair.
Setting It Up
Cover the crockpot and set it on low for about six hours or high for three hours. As it cooks, savor those delightful smells wafting through your home; it’s like having an Italian chef living in your kitchen!
Finishing Touches
Once cooked through and tender (you’ll know because it practically falls apart), give everything a gentle stir before serving. The sauce should be thickened just right, coating every piece of chicken in flavorful goodness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this beautiful creation over pasta or creamy polenta—dressed with fresh parsley for that pop of color! Your guests will think you’ve been slaving away all day when really it was just you and your trusty crockpot having fun together.
Enjoying Your Meal
As you dig into this Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala, relish each bite filled with rich flavors and textures. It’s comfort food at its best—perfect for cozy nights or impressing friends at dinner parties!
So there you have it: an effortless yet elegant meal that turns any ordinary evening into an extraordinary feast! Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- This Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala recipe transforms weeknight dinners into delightful culinary experiences
- With minimal effort, you’ll create a dish bursting with flavor, making it perfect for busy families or anyone who loves delicious food without the fuss
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with your Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala, start by searing the chicken to lock in flavors. While that’s happening, chop up your mushrooms and onions. Once everything is prepped, toss it all in the crockpot for effortless cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala! Swap out chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer darker meat. Add some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers of your Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat to preserve its rich flavors.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked chicken Marsala, always ensure your chicken is evenly browned before slow cooking
- Avoid overloading your crockpot; too many ingredients can lead to uneven cooking
- Use fresh herbs for a vibrant flavor boost that elevates your dish
There was this one time I made Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala for a dinner party, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! They said it tasted like something from a fancy restaurant, and I just smiled while thinking of my trusty crockpot doing all the work.
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala?
To create Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, Marsala wine, chicken broth, fresh mushrooms, garlic, and onions. Additionally, olive oil, salt, and pepper are essential for seasoning. You may also want to include fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor. This dish is simple yet packed with deliciousness, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option that your family will love.
How long does it take to cook Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala?
Cooking Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala usually takes about 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat in your crockpot. The exact time can vary based on the size of the chicken breasts and the specific model of your slow cooker. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving for optimal safety and taste.
Can I use frozen chicken for Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala; however, it’s best to thaw it first to ensure even cooking. If you must use frozen chicken, increase the cooking time by one to two hours. Just be sure that the chicken cooks thoroughly before serving. This method allows you to enjoy a quick and convenient meal without sacrificing flavor.
What can I serve with Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala?
Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala pairs beautifully with various sides. Popular choices include creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles that soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a lighter option. The versatility of this dish makes it a wonderful centerpiece for any meal.
Conclusion for Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala :
In summary, Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with rich flavors from mushrooms and Marsala wine. It requires minimal effort and only a handful of ingredients while delivering maximum taste. Cooking this recipe in your crockpot allows for hands-off preparation and ensures juicy results every time. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala is a mouthwatering dish that brings the essence of Italian cuisine right to your home. Juicy chicken breasts simmer in a rich Marsala wine sauce, enhanced by earthy mushrooms and aromatic herbs. With minimal effort and only a handful of ingredients, this recipe transforms busy weeknight dinners into gourmet experiences. Serve it over pasta or rice for a comforting meal that will leave your family and friends raving about your culinary skills.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz fresh sliced mushrooms (cremini or button)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup sweet Marsala wine
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions
- Sear chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear chicken breasts for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Prepare ingredients: Slice mushrooms and mince garlic.
- Combine: Transfer seared chicken to the crockpot; add mushrooms, garlic, chicken broth, Marsala wine, and dried oregano.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until chicken is tender.
- Serve: Stir gently before serving over pasta or rice, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 307
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
