Crock Pot Angel Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a family-friendly dinner that’s both comforting and effortless, you have to try this Crock Pot Angel Chicken. This delightful dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts slow-cooked in a luscious cream cheese and Italian dressing sauce, all served over delicate angel hair pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, the Crock Pot Angel Chicken turns simple ingredients into a dish bursting with warmth, flavor, and texture that feels like a big, satisfying hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, yet essential ingredients is all it takes to create a standout meal. Each component plays a key role: the chicken provides lean protein, the creamy sauce brings richness, and the angel hair pasta offers a light, silky base that soaks up all those delicious flavors.

• Vegetable oil: For searing the chicken to lock in flavor and create a beautiful golden crust.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural taste of the chicken.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 pounds): The star protein that becomes meltingly tender in the slow cooker.
• Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Adds a creamy texture and subtle tang to the sauce.
• Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons, softened): Enriches the sauce with a smooth, buttery flavor.
• Cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces): The base for a savory, comforting sauce that ties the dish together.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and a subtle kick.
• Chicken broth (¾ cup): Keeps the sauce silky and light, balancing richness with savoriness.
• Good Seasons Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix (1 packet): Brings bright herbs and seasoning that elevate the sauce’s flavor profile.
• Angel hair pasta (16 ounces): A delicate pasta that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce and tender chicken.
• Optional garnishes (chopped fresh parsley, cracked pepper, grated Parmesan): For a fresh, flavorful finish that adds color and a bit of zip.

How to Make Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon or two of vegetable oil. Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Once your pan is hot and shimmering, add the chicken and sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes until they’re golden brown. This step might be quick, but it locks in incredible flavor and creates a lovely crust before slow cooking. Then, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and lump-free. Then add the cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and the Italian dressing mix. Whisk everything until fully combined—this mixture is what’s going to turn your chicken into a silky, flavorful masterpiece inside the Crock Pot.

Step 3: Combine and Cook

Spray the inside of your Crock Pot with non-stick cooking spray for an easy release. Place the seared chicken breasts at the bottom, then pour the creamy sauce over the top, making sure each piece is covered in that gorgeous mixture. Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. The longer it cooks, the more tender and luscious the chicken gets, sometimes breaking apart beautifully, which is perfect for shredding if you prefer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

About 10 to 15 minutes before serving, prepare the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain it well, then get ready to bring everything together for a dreamy meal.

How to Serve Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Garnishes

The beauty of Crock Pot Angel Chicken shines with simple garnishes that boost both taste and presentation. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness, add a touch of cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors, or shave some Parmesan cheese on top for a nutty, salty finish that you won’t want to skip.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides, so consider a vibrant green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make a perfect, easy accompaniment. For a heartier meal, garlic bread works beautifully to soak up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Crock Pot Angel Chicken by spooning the creamy sauce and shredded chicken over the angel hair pasta for a luscious bowl. Alternatively, serve whole chicken breasts on a bed of pasta with sauce ladled on top to highlight the tender seared pieces. For a family-friendly approach, place everything in a big casserole dish or platter and let everyone build their own plates. Either way, the presentation will look inviting and taste incredible.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Crock Pot Angel Chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it chills, but a quick stir and gentle reheating will bring it back to luscious perfection.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this dish! Spoon the cooked chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. It keeps well for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to preserve that creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce becomes too thick. Reheat the pasta separately or toss it with the warmed sauce just before serving for best results.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Crock Pot Angel Chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option if you prefer darker meat. They will cook beautifully in the Crock Pot and tend to stay moist, adding even more richness to the dish.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before slow cooking?

Searing the chicken adds wonderful flavor and color, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step. The dish will still turn out delicious, although the caramelized notes will be less pronounced.

Can I substitute the angel hair pasta with something else?

Yes! While angel hair pasta is perfect for this recipe’s delicate sauce, feel free to use spaghetti, fettuccine, or even a gluten-free pasta if needed. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What if I want a lighter version of Crock Pot Angel Chicken?

Try using reduced-fat cream cheese and soups, as well as low-sodium chicken broth and dressing mix. Also, adding more fresh herbs and lemon zest can brighten the dish without extra calories.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The surest way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The chicken is safe to eat when it reaches 165°F. This method is especially important when using a Crock Pot, as cooking times can vary.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is one of those magical dishes that makes dinner feel effortless and indulgent all at once. Its creamy, comforting flavors and tender, juicy chicken make it a beloved recipe you’ll want to return to again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how simple ingredients can come together to create such a memorable, cozy meal. Trust me, Crock Pot Angel Chicken will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

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