Name: Crock Pot Angel Chicken: Creamy Comfort for Busy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 255 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (The main protein that absorbs the delicious sauce flavors beautifully.); Salt and Pepper (Essential for basic seasoning; adjust according to your personal taste.); Vegetable Oil (Use for searing chicken; it's optional if you're skipping the browning step.); 4 ounces Cream Cheese (Adds a luscious creaminess to the sauce; feel free to use dairy-free alternatives if needed.); 3 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Enhances the flavor and creaminess; can be substituted with margarine for a dairy-free version.); 10.5 ounces Cream of Chicken Soup (Forms the sauce base; choose low or no sodium variants for health considerations.); 3 cloves Garlic (Infuses robust flavor into the dish.); ¾ cup Chicken Broth (Adds moisture and depth; opt for low-sodium if desired.); 1 packet Good Seasons Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix (This is the key flavoring component; a homemade mix is also an excellent choice!); 16 ounces Angel Hair Pasta (The perfect vehicle for that rich sauce; swap with fettuccine or spaghetti if you prefer.); Chopped Fresh Parsley (Adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.); Cracked Pepper (Enhances the flavor profile of the meal.); Grated Parmesan Cheese (A delicious topping that elevates the dish even more!)

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The rich aroma of a slow-cooked meal enveloped the house as I prepared my favorite comforting dish: Crock Pot Angel Chicken. This creamy Italian-inspired chicken simmered in a luscious sauce is not just a dinner; it’s a heartfelt embrace on a plate. With easy prep, you can set your slow cooker and step back while it works its magic—I love how it transforms simple ingredients into a savory delight. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, this recipe is a go-to for both relaxation and satisfaction. With each tender piece of chicken served over angel hair pasta, you’ll experience a meal that resonates warmth and care. Ready to dive into this effortless culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!

Why is this dish irresistible?

Simplicity, this Crock Pot Angel Chicken requires little effort, making it perfect for busy lives. Rich, Creamy Flavor fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma, thanks to the blend of cream cheese and Italian spices. Versatile, you can easily swap in fettuccine or add veggies for a personal touch. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal makes it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings. Plus, it’s a true comfort food that warms not only your body but also your soul! Enjoy this alongside delicious sides like a fresh salad or some homemade garlic bread for a complete meal you’d be proud to serve.

Crock Pot Angel Chicken Ingredients

• Here’s what you’ll need for this creamy delight!

For the Chicken

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (1.5 pounds) – The main protein that absorbs the delicious sauce flavors beautifully.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for basic seasoning; adjust according to your personal taste.
Vegetable Oil – Use for searing chicken; it’s optional if you’re skipping the browning step.

For the Creamy Sauce

Cream Cheese (4 ounces, softened) – Adds a luscious creaminess to the sauce; feel free to use dairy-free alternatives if needed.
Unsalted Butter (3 Tablespoons, softened) – Enhances the flavor and creaminess; can be substituted with margarine for a dairy-free version.
Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 ounce can) – Forms the sauce base; choose low or no sodium variants for health considerations.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Infuses robust flavor into the dish.
Chicken Broth (¾ cup) – Adds moisture and depth; opt for low-sodium if desired.
Good Seasons Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix (1 packet, 0.7 ounce) – This is the key flavoring component; a homemade mix is also an excellent choice!

For the Pasta

Angel Hair Pasta (16 ounce box) – The perfect vehicle for that rich sauce; swap with fettuccine or spaghetti if you prefer.

For Garnishing

Chopped Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Cracked Pepper – Enhances the flavor profile of the meal.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – A delicious topping that elevates the dish even more!

Now that you have everything ready, let’s turn this comforting dream into a reality with simple cooking joy!🏠

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Heat 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Season your boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side. You want a golden-brown crust that adds flavor. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 3 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter, one 10.5-ounce can of cream of chicken soup, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Pour in ¾ cup of chicken broth and a packet of Good Seasons dry Italian salad dressing mix. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring a delightful base for your Crock Pot Angel Chicken.

Step 3: Set Up the Crock Pot
Spray the inside of your slow cooker with a non-stick spray for easy cleanup. Place the seared chicken breasts in the bottom of the Crock Pot. Next, take your prepared creamy sauce and pour it generously over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. This step is crucial as it infuses the chicken with rich flavors while it cooks.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Cover the Crock Pot with the lid, setting it to low heat, and let the chicken cook for 3-4 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 2.5-3 hours instead. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, remaining juicy and tender while immersed in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta
As the Crock Pot Angel Chicken nears readiness, prepare 16 ounces of angel hair pasta according to the package instructions. In the last 15 minutes of cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain the pasta well, ensuring it’s ready to soak up the delectable sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the chicken is ready and the pasta is cooked, you can serve the Crock Pot Angel Chicken in two ways: leave the chicken whole or shred it for easier serving. Plate the pasta first, then top it with the creamy chicken and sauce. For an extra touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, cracked pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese to elevate the dish.

How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Crock Pot Angel Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and sauce in a labeled freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Note that the pasta doesn’t freeze well, so it’s best made fresh when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop. If refrigerated, enjoy it within 3 days for best taste.
Separate Storage (Pasta): If you have leftover pasta, store it separately in an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for up to 3 days but is best enjoyed fresh!

What to Serve with Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Transform your comforting meal into a delightful feast with these perfect pairings that enhance every spoonful.

Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery delight brings a crunchy contrast and helps scoop up the creamy sauce, adding an irresistible flavor boost to your meal.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, zesty dressing, and crunchy croutons create a fresh balance, elevating the rich dish and cleansing the palate with each bite.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies like bell peppers and broccoli adds a burst of color, flavor, and texture, bringing health and vibrancy to your table.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender yet crisp asparagus sprinkled with lemon juice offers a light and refreshing element, beautifully complementing the richness of the chicken.
Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice mixed with fresh herbs absorbs the creamy sauce wonderfully, making each bite harmonious and comforting.
Sangria: A fruity, chilled drink adds a refreshing twist and balances the richness of the meal, making every sip a celebration with your food.

Expert Tips for Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe and delicious results. This prevents undercooked chicken, avoiding health risks.
Low and Slow: For maximum tenderness, cook the chicken on low for the full duration. While you want the chicken soft, cooking too long on high can lead to overly shredded meat.
Opt for Low-Sodium: If you’re watching your salt intake, be mindful to choose low-sodium options for soup and broth, ensuring flavor without excessive sodium in your Crock Pot Angel Chicken.
Searing Bonus: Searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth and richness to the dish. It enhances the overall flavor, making each bite more satisfying.
Pasta Alternatives: Feel free to swap out angel hair for other pasta types like fettuccine or penne. This can help you cater to different texture preferences while still enjoying the creamy sauce.

Crock Pot Angel Chicken Variations

Feel free to make this comforting recipe your own with these delightful twists!

Pasta Swap: Replace angel hair with fettuccine or penne to switch up the texture. Each pasta type offers a unique bite that elevates the dish’s heartiness.
Veggie Boost: Toss in frozen mixed vegetables or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition and a pop of color. This twist not only enhances health but also brings vibrancy to each serving.
Flavor Upgrade: Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil to the sauce for a fragrant kick. Fresh herbs can transform your meal into a delightful experience, adding layers of flavor that dance on your palate.
Richness Level: Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier flavor profile. Chicken thighs lend themselves to a richer taste that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Faster Prep: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a speedy option. Just toss it in the slow cooker with the sauce, and you’ll have dinner ready in no time, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap cream cheese with a plant-based alternative if you’re avoiding dairy. The dish remains creamy and satisfying with these alternative ingredients!
Heat It Up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. This addition will awaken your taste buds and bring an exciting heat to your creamy chicken.
Extra Crunch: Top with crispy fried onions just before serving for added texture. This simple garnish takes your dish from delicious to spectacular with a satisfying crunch!

Explore these variations and make this Crock Pot Angel Chicken truly your own. For another comforting dish, check out my Cheesy Garlic Chicken or try a heartwarming bowl of Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead Options

These Crock Pot Angel Chicken preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and sear the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve its juiciness. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy sauce (cream cheese, butter, cream of chicken soup, garlic, chicken broth, and seasoning) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply place the seared chicken and sauce in the Crock Pot, cook as instructed, and complete the dish by boiling the angel hair pasta just before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful and comforting meal with minimal last-minute effort!

Crock Pot Angel Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for Crock Pot Angel Chicken, as they remain tender and absorb the rich flavors of the sauce beautifully. If you prefer a more flavorful option, boneless chicken thighs can also work well.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Crock Pot Angel Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the dish cools to room temperature before sealing to retain freshness and flavor.

Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a labeled freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to enjoy the meal, as frozen pasta tends to lose its texture.

What should I do if my chicken is still tough after cooking?
If your chicken isn’t as tender as expected, it may need more time to cook. Try cooking it on low for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F. If you initially used high heat, consider adjusting the heat to low for better tenderness next time.

Are there any dietary substitutions I can make?
Yes, for a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and margarine. You can also use a gluten-free pasta variation to accommodate dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy this comforting dish.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked properly is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, and look for a temperature of 165°F. This guarantees that your chicken is not only safe to eat but also juicy and tender!