Crock Pot Angel Chicken)

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that practically cooks itself while you go about your day, you’ve come to the right place! Crock Pot Angel Chicken is one of those magical recipes that fills your home with delicious aromas and makes dinner feel special, even on the busiest of nights. This dish features tender chicken breasts in a creamy, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with angel hair pasta. It’s truly a family favorite and is perfect for everything from a quick weeknight meal to a gathering with friends.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. Just a few simple ingredients and your trusty slow cooker do all the work! Trust me, once you try this Crock Pot Angel Chicken, it will become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just a few minutes of hands-on time, this dish cooks low and slow, giving you more time for other things.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves creamy chicken over pasta, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients on hand already, making it easy to whip up when you’re in a pinch.
• Comforting Flavor: The rich, Italian-inspired sauce is packed with flavor that warms your heart and satisfies your cravings.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for busy weeknights. It reheats beautifully!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients can be half the fun! For this recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome items that come together beautifully to create a comforting meal. Here’s what you’ll need for your Crock Pot Angel Chicken:

• 1-2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large chicken breasts)
• 4 ounces (½ block) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup (recommend low or no sodium if sensitive to salt)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¾ cup chicken broth (recommend low or no sodium if sensitive to salt)
• 1 (0.7 ounce) packet Good Seasons Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix (or your favorite mix)
• 16 ounce box angel hair pasta
• Chopped fresh parsley, cracked pepper, and/or grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some tasty variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or chicken thighs instead of breasts for a different flavor and texture.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach before cooking for an extra nutritional boost.
• Change the pasta: If angel hair isn’t your favorite, feel free to use any kind of pasta you love—penne or fusilli would be delicious!
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to give the dish an extra kick.

How to Make Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and swirl it around until it coats the bottom. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the hot pan. Searing each side for just 2-3 minutes until golden brown locks in moisture and adds depth of flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and butter. Whisk until they’re smooth and creamy—this will give our sauce its rich base! Next, stir in cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and the dry Italian dressing mix. Whisk everything together until well combined; this mixture will transform into something magical as it cooks.

Step 3: Combine in the Crock Pot

Spray the inside of your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray—it helps make cleanup easier! Place those beautifully seared chicken breasts at the bottom of the pot. Pour that luscious sauce mixture over them so they’re completely covered; this ensures every bite is flavorful.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for about 3-4 hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The longer you let it cook, the more tender those chicken breasts will become—just keep an eye on them so they don’t fall apart if you prefer chunks!

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Shortly before serving, prepare your angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain but don’t rinse; we want that starchy goodness!

And there you have it! Serve up generous portions of that creamy Chicken over pasta and garnish with fresh parsley or cracked pepper if desired. Your family will thank you for such an incredible meal! Enjoy every bite—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Cooking can sometimes feel overwhelming, but with a few simple tips, you can master this delicious dish in no time!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Having all your ingredients ready to go will streamline the cooking process and make it more enjoyable. You can chop the garlic and measure out your broth in advance, saving time when you’re ready to cook.
• Sear the Chicken: Don’t skip the searing step! Searing the chicken breasts before adding them to the crock pot locks in flavor and gives a lovely golden color. It enhances the overall taste of your dish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to customize the seasoning to your liking. If you love a bit of spice, consider adding some red pepper flakes or Italian herbs for an extra kick. This allows you to make this dish uniquely yours!
• Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F. The internal temperature is key for juicy, perfectly cooked chicken, especially when using a crock pot where cooking times may vary.
• Play with Pasta Types: While angel hair pasta is traditional, don’t hesitate to switch it up! Other pastas like fettuccine or zucchini noodles can make for delightful variations that might suit your preferences or dietary needs.

How to Serve Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Presentation can elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary! Here are some ideas on how to serve your Crock Pot Angel Chicken beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the creamy sauce.
• Cracked Black Pepper: Adding freshly cracked black pepper right before serving provides an aromatic touch that enhances flavors.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: For a touch of indulgence, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top for extra flavor and creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli complements the richness of the chicken while adding a healthy crunch. Simply steam until tender for an easy side.
• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread alongside your meal for dipping into that creamy sauce. It’s perfect for soaking up every last bite!
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad introduces refreshing crunch and tangy flavors that balance beautifully with the creamy chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini offers robust flavors and nutrients, making it a fantastic complement.

Enjoy creating this heartwarming meal! Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Crock Pot Angel Chicken will surely delight everyone at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a fantastic recipe for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week. It stores well and can be easily reheated, making it perfect for busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
• Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Crock Pot Angel Chicken that may help you get the most out of this delightful recipe!

Can I use other types of chicken for Crock Pot Angel Chicken?

Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best, you can also use thighs or even a whole chicken cut into pieces. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly.

How do I know when my Crock Pot Angel Chicken is done?

The safest way to check is by using a meat thermometer; your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Remember, cooking times can vary based on your crock pot’s model and the size of your chicken pieces.

What can I serve with Crock Pot Angel Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. You can also serve it over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.

Can I make Crock Pot Angel Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and then pop it into the crock pot when you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is not just a recipe; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that brings warmth and joy to any dinner table. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken served over delicate pasta, it’s bound to become a family favorite. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do—happy cooking! Feel free to share your experiences or any modifications you made; I’d love to hear from you!