Crock Pot Angel Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a comforting and easy meal featuring tender chicken breasts slow-cooked in a creamy, Italian-inspired sauce. Served over delicate angel hair pasta, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want a no-fuss, flavorful dinner.

Ingredients

• 1-2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large breasts)
• 4 ounces (½ block) cream cheese, softened
• 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup (low or no sodium recommended if sensitive to salt)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¾ cup chicken broth (low or no sodium recommended 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)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Step 2: Once the pan is hot, sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from heat.
3. Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
4. Step 4: Add cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning mix to the bowl. Whisk until fully combined.
5. Step 5: Spray the inside of the crock pot with non-stick cooking spray. Place seared chicken breasts in the bottom of the pot.
6. Step 6: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until chicken reaches 165°F. Longer cooking will make chicken more tender but may cause it to fall apart.
7. Step 7: Just before serving, cook angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
8. Step 8: Serve chicken breasts whole or shredded, spooning sauce over pasta. Optionally, top with fresh parsley, cracked pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips & Variations

• For a lower-sodium dish, use low or no sodium chicken broth and cream of chicken soup.
• If you prefer, substitute the Italian dressing mix with your favorite herbs and spices for a different flavor profile.
• Try serving the sauce and chicken over rice or mashed potatoes instead of pasta.
• Use skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful variation.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. If the sauce thickens after refrigeration, add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to loosen it.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, extend the cooking time and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to guarantee it’s fully cooked.

What can I substitute for the angel hair pasta?

You can use any thin pasta like spaghetti or linguine. Or try serving the chicken and sauce over rice, mashed potatoes, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.