Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Crock Pot Angel Chicken brings together tender chicken breasts and a velvety Italian-inspired sauce, all simmered slowly to create the kind of dinner that soothes and satisfies. It is incredibly easy to pull together and is perfect for busy days when you want something hearty bubbling away while you tick through your to-do list. Serve this over angel hair pasta and you have a comfort meal that feels special but is wonderfully fuss-free.

After giving this to my family on a chilly weekend night we all agreed it was an instant keeper. There is just something about walking in and smelling that creamy sauce mingling with the chicken after a long day that feels like a hug.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Choose boneless and skinless for best results and go for fresh if you can find them for optimal tenderness
• Cream of chicken soup: Offers creaminess and body Opt for low sodium if you are sensitive to salt
• Cream cheese: Gives a rich tang and smooth texture Use full-fat for best results or choose a block-style for easy mixing
• Butter: Adds flavor and silkiness Unsalted is best so you can control salt
• Garlic: Fresh garlic really shines in this dish Look for firm cloves and avoid any with sprouting or soft spots
• Chicken broth: Forms the base of the sauce Use homemade if you have it or pick a no sodium carton for control
• Dry Italian dressing mix: Promotes a herby zesty note Any brand works but low sodium is a great option
• Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing flavors Start with a little and add more after tasting
• Angel hair pasta: Delicate and cooks quickly Check for a fresh expiration date and avoid broken pieces in the box

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken:

Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper Use less salt if you are sensitive and more pepper for added zing

Sear the Chicken Breasts:

Heat a skillet over medium-high and add a splash of oil Once hot add chicken breasts and let them cook for about three minutes on each side until they turn golden brown Searing here builds flavor but you can skip to save time

Mix the Creamy Sauce:

In a medium bowl whisk together softened cream cheese and softened butter until smooth Next add cream of chicken soup minced garlic chicken broth and the dry Italian dressing mix Wide strokes and a whisk work best here to fully combine everything to a luscious sauce

Layer in the Crock Pot:

Spray your slow cooker with non-stick spray Lay the seared chicken breasts on the bottom Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken making sure each piece is covered

Cook Low and Slow:

Put the lid on and set your crock pot to low for about three hours or until the chicken reaches one hundred sixty five degrees inside This timing keeps your chicken juicy and not overcooked If you use the high setting check for doneness after one and a half to two hours

Prepare the Pasta:

When the chicken is nearly cooked bring a pot of salted water to a boil Add your angel hair pasta and cook just to al dente about four minutes Drain and set aside

Finish and Serve:

Remove the chicken from the sauce and either shred it or keep whole Toss the cooked pasta in the crock pot to coat with sauce or spoon the chicken and sauce on top of plated pasta Finish with black pepper and fresh parsley if you like

The Italian dressing mix brings a burst of herb flavor I absolutely love how it transforms the sauce Every time I make this my son insists on scraping every last bit from his plate When I see him go back for seconds I know this recipe is a true win in my kitchen

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers completely before refrigerating Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days If freezing let cool and then freeze in labeled containers for up to three months Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken thighs work in place of breasts and are more affordable If you want to skip the cream of chicken soup homemade white sauce can sub in A couple of teaspoons of Italian seasoning replaces the packet in a pinch and spaghetti or penne pasta holds up well under the creamy sauce too

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and garlic bread Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus also complement its richness and add some vibrant green to your plate For an extra dash of comfort serve it on mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice

Cultural and Historical Notes

This dish traces its roots to clever home cooks making the most of pantry staples with a little help from convenience items Like many retro recipes it merges Italian flavors with the creamy sauce trend that swept through family kitchens in the last few decades It is a reminder of how a few simple touches can turn humble ingredients into a family tradition

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Angel hair works well, but you can substitute fettuccine, spaghetti, linguine, penne, rigatoni, or bow tie pasta. Mashed potatoes or rice also pair happily with the creamy chicken.

→ Is it necessary to sear the chicken before slow cooking?

Searing isn't required, but it does add more flavor and a golden crust. To save time, skip this step and proceed with placing the chicken directly in the slow cooker.

→ How should I serve angel chicken?

You can shred or slice the chicken and toss it with the cooked pasta and sauce, or simply spoon the sauce over plated pasta and top with chicken. Finish with chopped parsley or grated parmesan, if desired.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

→ What sides go well with this meal?

Garlic bread, breadsticks, and fresh green salads make excellent accompaniments to balance the creamy sauce and tender pasta.