1. Introduction
Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala is a dish that turns a classic Italian recipe into a convenient, set-and-forget meal. Imagine tender chicken breasts, simmered to perfection in a rich Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms and garlic, all made in your trusty slow cooker. This dish combines the robust flavors of traditional Chicken Marsala with the ease of a slow cooker preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and impressively delicious.
2. Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (thighs are also great)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup Marsala wine
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
3. Directions
- Season and dredge chicken in flour.
- Brown chicken in olive oil; transfer to slow cooker.
- Sauté mushrooms and garlic; deglaze with Marsala wine.
- Add mushroom mixture and broth to slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 5-6 hours.
4. How to Prepare
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, dredge in flour.
- In a skillet, brown the chicken in olive oil, then move to the slow cooker.
- Sauté mushrooms and garlic in the same skillet, then add Marsala wine.
- Pour mushroom and wine mixture over chicken in the slow cooker.
- Add chicken broth, cover, and cook.
5. Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 5-6 hours on low
- Total time: About 6 hours 15 minutes
6. Servings
- Serves 4
7. FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? A: Absolutely! Thighs can be a flavorful and juicier alternative.
Q: What sides go well with this dish? A: Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad complement it well.
Q: Can I cook it on high for a shorter time? A: Yes, cooking on high for 2-3 hours works, but low and slow yields the most tender results.
Q: Can I use a different wine? A: Marsala wine is preferred for its unique flavor, but in a pinch, a dry white wine can be used.
Q: Is it possible to make it dairy-free? A: Yes, substitute the cream with a dairy-free alternative or omit it altogether.
8. Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and convenience. This dish is perfect for those who love the taste of classic Italian cooking but need the ease of a slow cooker meal. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress. The tender chicken, the rich and creamy Marsala sauce, and the ease of preparation make this dish a winner. It’s a beautiful blend of tradition and modern cooking, proving that good food doesn’t have to be complicated.