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Dump and Go Creamy Chicken Marsala - A Simple, Comforting Dinner

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
  • 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced (optional but recommended)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon jarred minced garlic)
  • 3/4 cup Marsala wine (sweet or semi-sweet is traditional)
  • 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening, optional)
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for extra richness)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Cooked pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice for serving

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken: Sprinkle chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. No need to marinate—just coat it well.
  2. Layer the aromatics: In your slow cooker, Instant Pot, or a baking dish, add mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Place the seasoned chicken on top.
  3. Mix the sauce base: Whisk Marsala wine, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard. Pour over the chicken and vegetables.
  4. Cook it your way: Slow cooker: Low for 4–5 hours or High for 2–3 hours, until chicken is tender.
  5. Instant Pot: Manual/Pressure Cook for 8 minutes (thighs) or 10 minutes (breasts), then quick release.
  6. Oven: Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–45 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F.
  7. Thicken the sauce (optional but nice): Transfer the cooking liquid to a saucepan. Whisk cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water, then stir into the sauce. Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  8. Make it creamy: Stir in heavy cream and butter. Simmer on low for 2–3 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  9. Combine and serve: Pour the creamy Marsala sauce over the chicken. Garnish with parsley and serve with your favorite side.