Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala – Italian-Inspired Comfort Dinner

Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala is a rich, savory Italian-inspired dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor right into your home with minimal effort. Tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts are slow-cooked in a luscious Marsala wine sauce with earthy cremini mushrooms, garlic, and a touch of cream for a luxurious finish. This hands-off recipe transforms weeknight dinners into a cozy, flavorful experience while letting the slow cooker do the work. If you’re searching for a simple Chicken Marsala recipe, an easy Italian crockpot meal, or a comforting slow-cooked chicken dish, this Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala delivers tender protein, deep flavors, and creamy richness in every bite.

Introduction

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian dish celebrated for its savory, wine-infused sauce and tender chicken. With this crockpot version, you get all the traditional flavors without standing over the stove. Garlic, cremini mushrooms, and Marsala wine blend with chicken broth and a touch of soy sauce for depth, while slow cooking ensures the chicken becomes fork-tender.

This recipe is perfect for busy families, weeknight meals, or casual dinner parties where you want something impressive but stress-free. The addition of heavy cream at the end creates a silky sauce that clings to each piece of chicken, delivering restaurant-quality flavor in the comfort of your own home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hands-Off Cooking – The slow cooker does all the work.
• Tender Chicken – Slow-cooked for maximum juiciness.
• Rich, Savory Flavor – Marsala wine and garlic infuse the meat.
• Creamy Finish – Heavy cream adds luxurious texture.
• Family-Friendly – Easy to prepare and universally loved.
• Weeknight Friendly – Minimal prep, maximum reward.

Ingredients Breakdown

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs) – Tender, lean protein that cooks evenly in the crockpot.

Sauce & Flavor

• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced – Adds aromatic depth.
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce – Enhances umami and depth.
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – Provides liquid for slow cooking.
• 1/2 cup Marsala wine – Imparts signature sweet-savory flavor.
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced – Earthy, tender mushrooms that soak up the sauce.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – Added at the end for a creamy finish.
• Salt and pepper to taste – For proper seasoning.
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing) – Used for lightly cooking garlic and mushrooms.

All ingredient quantities must be followed exactly to maintain intended flavor balance.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Crockpot (slow cooker)
• Skillet for sautéing
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Forks for stirring
• Knife and cutting board

Optional:

• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the Chicken
   Season 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper evenly on both sides.
2. Sauté Garlic
   In a skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Mix the Sauce
   In a bowl, combine 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 cup chicken broth, and 1/2 cup Marsala wine. Add herbs if desired.
4. Assemble in Crockpot
   Place the seasoned chicken in the crockpot. Pour the sauce over the chicken and top with 8 oz sliced cremini mushrooms.
5. Cook the Chicken
   Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
6. Add Cream
   Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream just before serving to create a smooth, velvety sauce.
7. Serve
   Serve hot with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables, spooning the Marsala mushroom sauce over the chicken.

Tips & Variations

• Chicken Thighs: Can be substituted for chicken breasts for extra juiciness.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
• Mushroom Variations: Cremini can be replaced with button or portobello mushrooms.
• Spice Boost: Add red pepper flakes for mild heat.
• Herb Twist: Fresh thyme or rosemary pairs beautifully with Marsala sauce.

Flavor Profile

Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala features tender chicken coated in a savory-sweet wine sauce with earthy mushrooms and aromatic garlic. The Marsala wine adds a deep, slightly sweet complexity, balanced by the subtle umami of soy sauce. Heavy cream provides a silky mouthfeel, resulting in a luxurious yet approachable Italian-inspired dinner.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Cholesterol: 105mg
• Sodium: 580mg

Dietary Notes: Gluten-free (ensure gluten-free soy sauce).

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Season chicken and prep sauce in advance; store in refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
• Cooked Chicken Marsala can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave to prevent overcooking.

FAQs

Can I cook this on high?
Yes, 3 hours on high works, but low is preferred for maximum tenderness.

Do I have to use Marsala wine?
It is traditional; you can substitute dry sherry or grape juice with a splash of vinegar in a pinch.

Can I add vegetables?
Yes, carrots or peas can be added in the last hour of cooking.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but cream should be added fresh after reheating for best texture.

Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, thighs remain juicy and may enhance flavor.

Cooking Timeline

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings
15 minutes	6 hours	6 hours 15 minutes	4

Serving Suggestions

Serve over fettuccine, rice, or mashed potatoes. Spoon the mushroom Marsala sauce generously over the chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and aroma. Pair with a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Recipe Variations

1. Creamy Garlic Marsala: Add an extra 1/4 cup heavy cream for a richer sauce.
2. Mushroom Medley: Use a combination of shiitake, cremini, and button mushrooms.
3. Herb-Enhanced: Add fresh thyme or rosemary before slow cooking.
4. Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium chicken broth and tamari.

Ingredient Spotlight

Marsala Wine

Marsala wine gives this dish its signature depth, slightly sweet and nutty, enhancing the chicken and mushrooms. Use dry Marsala for traditional flavor.

Cremini Mushrooms

These earthy mushrooms absorb the sauce beautifully while adding texture and flavor. Slice evenly for consistent cooking.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Sear garlic lightly before adding to release aroma.
• Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain heat and moisture.
• Add cream at the end for a silky, smooth sauce.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Can be frozen up to 2 months; thaw in refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat: Warm gently on stovetop; add a splash of broth or cream if sauce thickens.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350
Protein	38g
Carbs	9g
Fat	18g
Fiber	1g

Gluten-free with optional gluten-free soy sauce.

Expanded Conclusion

Easy Crockpot Chicken Marsala is an elegant Italian-inspired dinner that’s surprisingly simple. The combination of Marsala wine, garlic, mushrooms, and cream produces a rich, comforting sauce that turns tender chicken into a restaurant-quality meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties, this dish brings luxury and flavor to your table with minimal effort. Save this recipe, try it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a hands-off Italian classic any night of the week.

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