Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala Delight

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Creamy, savory, and rich with flavor, this Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala Delight is the ultimate comfort dish that practically cooks itself. With juicy chicken thighs, earthy mushrooms, and a luxurious Marsala wine sauce, this recipe transforms weeknight dinners into restaurant-quality meals. Let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you enjoy a meal that’s big on flavor and low on effort.

This dish is perfect for cozy evenings, family gatherings, or meal prepping for the week ahead. It’s hearty without being heavy, and the depth of flavor from the mushrooms and wine adds an elegant touch that makes this recipe feel extra special.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala Delight, you’ll want to gather a few key kitchen tools that help streamline the prep and ensure optimal results:

• Slow Cooker: The star of this dish. It gently simmers the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the chicken to become tender.
• Skillet: Used to sear the chicken before transferring it to the slow cooker. Searing locks in juices and adds a golden crust that enhances the flavor.
• Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: For slicing mushrooms and dicing onions or garlic if you’re using them fresh.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping the chicken during searing without piercing it and losing juices.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision matters, especially for ingredients like Marsala wine and cream.

Using the right tools not only speeds up your prep but also improves the quality and texture of your final dish. Don’t skip the searing step—that golden-browned exterior pays off in rich, savory depth once it slow cooks.

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Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala Delight

Each ingredient plays a distinct role in building the deep, layered flavor of this classic comfort dish:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: Rich and flavorful, thighs remain juicy during the long cooking time.
• Salt & Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance every component.
• Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken and adding a hint of richness.
• Baby Bella Mushrooms: Earthy and meaty, they soak up the Marsala flavor beautifully.
• Garlic (minced): Adds a sharp, aromatic depth.
• Marsala Wine: The signature ingredient that gives this dish its iconic flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Balances the richness and provides moisture.
• Heavy Cream: Adds silkiness to the sauce for that luscious finish.
• Cornstarch (optional): Thickens the sauce if needed.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Brings a pop of color and freshness.

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How To Make the Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala Delight

Step 1: Sear the Chicken for Extra Flavor

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown. This step locks in flavor and gives a rich color.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker. In the same skillet, add mushrooms and garlic. Sauté until the mushrooms release their juices and develop a deep brown color. Pour in Marsala wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Pour the mushroom and wine mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Add chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.

Step 4: Finish with Creamy Goodness

In the last 30 minutes, stir in the heavy cream. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it in. Let it cook until the sauce is slightly thickened.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a truly comforting meal.

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Serving and Storing Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala Delight

Serve this delicious chicken marsala hot over creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or even a bed of wild rice. The sauce is rich enough to act as a gravy, so choose something that can soak up every last drop.

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container. This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this dish without wine?

You can substitute the Marsala wine with a mix of chicken broth and a splash of grape juice or balsamic vinegar for a non-alcoholic option.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but keep in mind that chicken breasts may become drier than thighs in the slow cooker. Adjust cooking time and consider checking for doneness earlier.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your chicken broth and cornstarch are certified gluten-free. Always double-check labels.

What sides pair well with Chicken Marsala?

Creamy mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, roasted asparagus, or garlic green beans are perfect companions for this dish.

Can I prep this recipe the night before?

Absolutely! Sear the chicken and prep the mushrooms, then store everything in the fridge overnight. In the morning, transfer to the slow cooker and let it cook fresh.

Do I have to sear the chicken first?

Technically, no—but it makes a big difference in flavor and texture. Searing locks in juices and adds a richer, deeper taste.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you enjoyed this Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala Delight, you’ll love these flavorful dishes from Life With Olivia:

• Longhorn Parmesan Chicken: Crispy, cheesy, and full of zesty flavor.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot: A deliciously sweet-and-savory slow cooker favorite.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole: A cozy twist on the classic French dish.
• Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes: A cheesy, beefy meal for sandwich lovers.
• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole: Creamy, hearty, and crowd-pleasing.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time. And if you’re looking for more daily cooking inspiration, follow along on Pinterest at Life With Olivia.

Let me know how your version turned out! Did you try adding pancetta or swapping in white wine? Drop your twist in the comments—I love seeing how you make these meals your own!

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