Crock Pot Angel Chicken

If you’re looking for a comforting and easy dinner that the whole family will love, let me introduce you to my favorite dish: Crock Pot Angel Chicken! This recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights or when you have guests over. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a creamy, Italian-inspired sauce, all served over delicate angel hair pasta. It’s not just delicious; it’s also incredibly simple to make!

What makes this dish special is how effortlessly it comes together in your slow cooker. You can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Trust me, when the aroma fills your kitchen, everyone will be eager to gather around the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, this dish is perfect for anyone with a busy schedule.
• Family-friendly: The creamy sauce and tender chicken make this meal appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile serving options: Pair it with pasta, rice, or even steamed veggies for a complete meal.
• Make-ahead convenience: Toss everything in the crock pot earlier in the day for an easy dinner later.
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of flavors creates a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Crock Pot Angel Chicken is easy because they are simple and wholesome. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 1-2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large chicken breasts)

For the Creamy Sauce

• 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)

For Serving

• 16 ounce box angel hair pasta
• Chopped fresh parsley, cracked pepper, and/or grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

Variations

One of the best things about Crock Pot Angel Chicken is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless turkey breasts or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
• Change up the sauce: Use a jarred Alfredo sauce instead of cream of chicken soup for an extra creamy experience.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers during cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for 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 let it warm up. Season both sides of your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the hot pan. Searing adds flavor and helps lock in moisture—this step makes all the difference in creating juicy chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine 4 ounces of softened cream cheese with 3 tablespoons of softened butter. Whisk these together until smooth. Now it’s time to add in your cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and Italian dressing mix. Mixing these ingredients well creates that rich sauce we all love!

Step 3: Assemble in the Crock Pot

Spray the inside of your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place your seared chicken breasts at the bottom of the pot—this is where all those delicious juices will gather as they cook. Pour that luscious sauce mixture over the top.

Step 4: Let It Cook

Cover your crock pot and set it on low for 3-4 hours or until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remember, cooking times may vary depending on your crock pot’s age and size of chicken breasts! The longer you let it cook, the more tender it gets.

Step 5: Cook Your Pasta

Shortly before serving, prepare your angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well so it’s ready to soak up all that creamy goodness from your crock pot.

And there you have it—Crock Pot Angel Chicken ready to be served! Enjoy this delightful dish with loved ones around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with these handy tips, you’ll elevate your Crock Pot Angel Chicken to the next level!

• Sear the Chicken: Searing the chicken before placing it in the crock pot creates a beautiful golden crust, enhancing both flavor and texture. This step adds depth to your dish that you won’t want to skip.
• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasoning of the creamy sauce before pouring it over the chicken. Tailoring the flavors to your preference ensures each bite is a delight.
• Use Low Sodium Options: Opting for low or no sodium cream of chicken soup and broth is a great way to control salt intake without sacrificing flavor. This makes your meal healthier and allows you to customize seasoning later.
• Cook Low and Slow: Allowing the chicken to cook on low heat for 4 hours will make it incredibly tender. If you have more time, letting it cook longer can enhance flavors even further—just keep an eye on that internal temperature!
• Reserve Some Sauce: Make extra sauce by doubling the ingredients! This gives you a delicious dressing for leftover pasta or vegetables, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

How to Serve Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Serving your Crock Pot Angel Chicken with flair can turn an ordinary meal into something special! Here are some great ideas to present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings freshness that complements the creamy sauce.
• Cracked Pepper: Adding freshly cracked pepper provides a hint of spice and elevates the overall flavor profile, making each bite more exciting.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish, allowing you to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.
• Steamed Broccoli: A light side like steamed broccoli adds a nutritious touch while balancing out the richness of the main course. Toss with lemon juice for extra zing!
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with croutons and a tangy dressing makes for a refreshing contrast to the warm pasta. It’s a classic combination that’s hard to resist.
• Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned simply with olive oil and salt, roasted asparagus offers a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that complements the creamy angel chicken wonderfully.

With these serving suggestions, your Crock Pot Angel Chicken is sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a fantastic option for meal prep! This dish not only makes for a delicious weeknight dinner but also holds up well when stored, making it perfect for leftovers or future meals.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep the pasta separate from the chicken if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing

• Portion out the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers.
• You can freeze it for up to 2-3 months.
• For best results, freeze the pasta separately as it may become mushy when thawed.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
• Add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to keep the sauce creamy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Crock Pot Angel Chicken that might help you make this delightful dish even better!

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for Crock Pot Angel Chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just be sure to increase your cooking time by about an hour and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

What can I serve with Crock Pot Angel Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative!

How do I make Crock Pot Angel Chicken healthier?

You can reduce calories by using reduced-fat cream cheese and low-sodium soup. Adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can also boost nutrition!

Can I make Crock Pot Angel Chicken without cream cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or even Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

What makes Crock Pot Angel Chicken special?

The combination of creamy sauce and tender chicken cooked slowly creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delightful Crock Pot Angel Chicken recipe! It’s not just about the meal itself; it’s about creating moments around the table with loved ones. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to get creative with your own twists on this recipe. Happy cooking!