If you’ve ever faced the conundrum of dinner prep during a whirlwind week, you’ll love my go-to solution: Crock Pot Angel Chicken. This family-friendly dish is the epitome of creamy Italian comfort food, where tender chicken simmers in a luscious sauce that melds beautifully with fluffy pasta or rice. With minimal effort, the slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into a rich and satisfying meal that rivals any restaurant’s. Not only is it a breeze to prepare, but the comforting aroma will fill your home, making it impossible for anyone to resist gathering around the dinner table. So, are you ready to make your weeknight dinners deliciously effortless? Why is Crock Pot Angel Chicken a must-try? Simplicity at Its Best: The magic of this dish lies in its easy preparation… Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves a creamy pasta dish, and this one is sure to please even the pickiest eaters! Flavor Explosion: The blend of cream cheese and garlic makes for a rich sauce that clings deliciously to each bite. Versatile Serving Options: From fluffy angel hair to rice or even mashed potatoes, you can easily customize how you enjoy it. Time-Saving Solution: Let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you focus on other tasks, ensuring dinner is hassle-free. Making Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a delightful alternative to monotonous fast food dinners, and you can easily pair it with a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal experience! Crock Pot Angel Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (1.5 pounds) – The heart of this dish, soaking up the creamy flavors as it cooks. For the Sauce • Cream Cheese (4 ounces) – Adds the dreamy creaminess that makes this sauce so irresistible; consider substituting with dairy-free options if needed. • Unsalted Butter (3 tablespoons) – Infuses the sauce with richness; use olive oil for a lighter twist. • Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 ounces) – Acts as the creamy base; opt for low-sodium if watching salt intake. • Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Elevates the flavor profile; garlic powder can stand in if you’re short on fresh. • Chicken Broth (¾ cup) – Enhances flavor depth; homemade or low-sodium versions are ideal for healthier cooking. • Good Seasons Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix (1 packet, 0.7 ounces) – Imparts a delightful Italian herb blend; make your own mix for a homemade touch. For Cooking • Vegetable Oil – Use to sear the chicken for enhanced flavor and moisture; olive oil is a perfect substitute. For Serving • Angel Hair Pasta (16 ounces) – The ideal base for this creamy dish; swap for any pasta type, including gluten-free options. • Fresh Parsley, Cracked Pepper, and/or Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional) – These garnishes add a touch of flavor and presentation to your Crock Pot Angel Chicken. This comforting dish is the answer to your weeknight dinner dilemmas, offering simplicity and deliciousness in every bite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crock Pot Angel Chicken Step 1: Sear the Chicken Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, adding a drizzle of vegetable oil. Season both sides of the boneless, skinless chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden-brown crust. This step enhances the flavor of your Crock Pot Angel Chicken and seals in the juices. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet. Step 2: Prepare the Sauce In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and Good Seasons Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. This luscious sauce will create the rich flavor profile in your Crock Pot Angel Chicken. Step 3: Assemble in the Crock Pot Lightly spray the inside of your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the seared chicken breasts in the bottom of the crock pot, ensuring they lay flat. Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece well. This creates the perfect foundation for your flavorful dish as it cooks slowly. Step 4: Cook to Perfection Cover the crock pot with its lid, then set it to cook on low for 3-4 hours. This gentle cooking method allows the chicken to become tender, absorbing the flavors of the sauce. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. For extra tenderness, feel free to let it cook a bit longer. Step 5: Cook the Pasta Shortly before you’re ready to serve your Crock Pot Angel Chicken, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically 4-5 minutes for al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, then set aside. This will serve as the perfect base for your creamy chicken dish. Step 6: Serve and Garnish Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, you can serve it whole or shredded over the prepared pasta. Ladle the creamy sauce generously over the top, coating the pasta beautifully. For an added touch, garnish with fresh parsley, cracked pepper, or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Your Crock Pot Angel Chicken is now ready to enjoy! Make Ahead Options Crock Pot Angel Chicken is ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy sauce (step 2) up to 24 hours in advance by whisking together the softened cream cheese, butter, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and Italian dressing mix. Simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. If you’re short on time, you can also sear the chicken (step 1) ahead and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just combine the seared chicken and sauce in the crock pot (step 3), then cook on low for 3-4 hours until tender. This approach saves time while ensuring your Crock Pot Angel Chicken remains just as delicious! Crock Pot Angel Chicken Variations Customize your Crock Pot Angel Chicken to fit your tastes and dietary needs with these delightful variations. Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs to enhance moisture and flavor. These thighs soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite juicy and tender. Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based chicken alternatives or hearty veggies like mushrooms or eggplant. This twist ensures everyone at the table can enjoy the creamy goodness. Gluten-Free Pasta: Substitute traditional pasta with a gluten-free variety or serve over fluffy quinoa for a wholesome, gluten-free meal. No need to compromise on flavor! Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a delightful kick. This spicy variation elevates the dish while still keeping the creaminess intact. Herbed Twist: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can be incorporated into the sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Try adding a tablespoon of fresh minced herbs near the end of cooking for a refreshing touch. Slow Cooker Variants: For a more robust flavor, toss in sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to the pot before cooking. Not only do they enhance flavor, but they also add a lovely pop of color. Coconut Milk Substitute: Replace chicken broth with coconut milk for a fun, tropical twist. This creates a luscious, slightly sweet sauce that pairs wonderfully with the chicken. For more delicious twists, check out my recipes for Crock Pot Teriyaki and One Pot Chicken Dumpling Soup which are also family favorites! What to Serve with Crock Pot Angel Chicken As you prepare to indulge in this creamy delight, let’s explore some delightful pairings that will elevate your meal experience. Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of warm bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce, making every bite a flavorful experience. Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens with a tangy vinaigrette will add a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy flavors of the chicken. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables, roasted until caramelized, bring an earthy, savory note to complement the dish’s creaminess. Try carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli introduces a crunch that balances the sumptuous sauce while adding vibrant color to your plate. Creamy Polenta: The smooth texture of polenta is a fantastic alternative to pasta, creating a warm and satisfying base for the chicken and sauce. Sparkling White Wine: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Prosecco elevates the meal, offering a crisp and refreshing palate cleanser amidst the creamy notes. Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse is a lovely sweet finish that contrasts with the savory main dish, delighting your taste buds. 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. This preserves the creamy sauce and tender chicken for your next meal. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain creaminess. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving. Make-Ahead: Prepare the Crock Pot Angel Chicken in advance and store in the fridge overnight before cooking. This enhances the flavors and makes dinner planning even easier! Expert Tips for Crock Pot Angel Chicken Searing Matters: Don’t skip searing the chicken! It adds a rich depth of flavor to the dish that enhances the overall taste. Uniform Chicken Size: Ensure your chicken breasts are similar in size for even cooking, preventing some from becoming dry while others remain tender. Monitor Cooking Time: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; allow the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and tenderness. Creamy Consistency: If you want a thicker sauce, add an extra ounce of cream cheese or reduce a bit of the broth during cooking. Customize Your Pasta: While angel hair pasta is delicious, feel free to use other pasta shapes or even rice; just adjust cooking times accordingly! Leftovers Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months without losing flavor in this Crock Pot Angel Chicken delight. Crock Pot Angel Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right chicken for my Crock Pot Angel Chicken? Absolutely! For the best results, choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are uniform in size, allowing for even cooking. If you prefer a juicier option, consider using chicken thighs instead. When selecting, look for chicken with a pale pink color and no dark spots or signs of spoilage. How should I store leftover Crock Pot Angel Chicken? The leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. This helps maintain the creamy sauce and tender chicken. Just remember to cool it down to room temperature before sealing it up to prevent condensation and keep it fresh. Can I freeze Crock Pot Angel Chicken and how? Yes, you definitely can! To freeze, make sure to cool the Crock Pot Angel Chicken completely. Then, transfer it to a well-sealed freezer bag or airtight container. It can remain frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently. What should I do if my sauce isn’t creamy enough? If you find that the sauce isn’t as creamy as you’d like, you can easily fix it! Add an extra ounce of cream cheese when whisking the sauce ingredients together. Alternatively, when reheating, you could stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency. Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe? Yes, this Crock Pot Angel Chicken recipe includes common allergens such as dairy (cream cheese and butter) and gluten (pasta). If you have dairy allergies, consider using dairy-free cream cheese or plant-based butter. For gluten sensitivities, opt for gluten-free pasta or rice. Always double-check the labels on pre-packaged ingredients like cream of chicken soup. How can I serve Crock Pot Angel Chicken differently? Great question! This dish is incredibly versatile. If you prefer something other than pasta, try serving it over rice, mashed potatoes, or polenta. You can even mix in roasted veggies for a heartier meal. The more the merrier when it comes to personalizing your plate! Crock Pot Angel Chicken: Creamy Comfort for Your Family Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a family-friendly dish featuring tender chicken in a creamy sauce, perfect for effortless weeknight dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 10 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1.5 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts The heart of this dish, soaking up the creamy flavors as it cooks.For the Sauce4 ounces Cream Cheese Adds creaminess; consider dairy-free options if needed.3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter For richness; olive oil can be used.10.5 ounces Cream of Chicken Soup Acts as the creamy base; opt for low-sodium if needed.3 cloves Garlic Minced; garlic powder can substitute.¾ cup Chicken Broth Enhances flavor; homemade or low-sodium recommended.1 packet Good Seasons Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix Imparts an Italian herb blend.For CookingVegetable Oil Use to sear chicken; olive oil is a good substitute.For Serving16 ounces Angel Hair Pasta Ideal base; can swap for any pasta type.Fresh Parsley, Cracked Pepper, and/or Grated Parmesan Cheese Optional garnishes. Equipment Crock Potcast-iron skilletmedium bowlcolander Method Step-by-Step InstructionsHeat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, adding a drizzle of vegetable oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden-brown. Remove from skillet.In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, butter, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and Italian dressing mix. Whisk until smooth.Lightly spray the crock pot. Place seared chicken in the bottom and pour sauce mixture over, coating well.Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours. Check with a meat thermometer for 165°F internal temperature.Boil salted water, add angel hair pasta, and cook according to package instructions, typically 4-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.Serve chicken over cooked pasta, ladle sauce over and garnish with parsley, pepper, or cheese if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg NotesSearing the chicken adds rich flavor. Ensure chicken breasts are similar in size for even cooking. Monitor cooking time for tenderness. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days; freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
