Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a delightful dish that transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a creamy, flavorful dinner. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. With minimal prep time and the magic of slow cooking, you can enjoy tender chicken enveloped in an Italian-inspired sauce served over delicate angel hair pasta. It’s a comforting meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for any night of the week.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream cheese, garlic, and Italian dressing mix gives the sauce a rich and savory flavor profile that pairs beautifully with chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over angel hair pasta or your favorite grain for a versatile meal that fits any palate.
• Feed a Crowd: This recipe yields four servings, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep for the week.
• Slow Cooker Convenience: Let your crock pot do the work while you focus on other tasks; simply set it and forget it until dinner time!

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Crock Pot Angel Chicken requires some essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth and efficient. Gather these items before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Crock pot
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Perfect for searing chicken to lock in flavors before slow cooking, ensuring your meat remains juicy.
• Crock pot: Central to this recipe, it allows for low-and-slow cooking, making the chicken incredibly tender and infused with flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need to make Crock Pot Angel Chicken:

For the Chicken Dish

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

How to Make Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1-2 Tablespoons vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan.
3. Sprinkle salt and pepper over both sides of 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Once the pan is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts.
2. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
3. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together 4 ounces cream cheese and 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter until smooth.
2. Add 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup, 3 cloves minced garlic, ¾ cup chicken broth, and 1 packet Italian dressing mix.
3. Whisk until fully combined.

Step 4: Cook in the Crock Pot

1. Spray inside of crock pot with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Place seared chicken breasts in the bottom of the pot.
3. Pour sauce mixture over chicken breasts.
4. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

1. Shortly before serving, cook 16 ounce box angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain when cooked.

Now you’re ready to serve this delicious Crock Pot Angel Chicken! Enjoy every bite of this creamy comfort food with family or friends!

How to Serve Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in several delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Over Angel Hair Pasta

• Serve the creamy chicken sauce over a bed of cooked angel hair pasta for a classic pairing. The pasta absorbs the sauce, enhancing every bite.

With Fresh Herbs

• Top your Crock Pot Angel Chicken with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This adds an aromatic touch that complements the dish beautifully.

Garnished with Parmesan

• Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. The cheese melts slightly into the warm sauce, providing extra richness.

Alongside Garlic Bread

• Pair it with crispy garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. This adds texture and flavor, making your meal even more satisfying.

Accompanied by Steamed Vegetables

• Serve with steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy side. The crunchiness of the vegetables balances the creamy chicken perfectly.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Angel Chicken

For a delicious and tender Crock Pot Angel Chicken, follow these simple tips to ensure perfection every time you make it.

• Sear the Chicken – Browning the chicken before placing it in the crock pot enhances its flavor and adds depth to the dish.
• Use Low Sodium Ingredients – Opt for low or no sodium options for broth and soup if you’re watching your salt intake. It helps control overall sodium levels in the meal.
• Cook Until Tender – Ensure you cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Cooking longer makes it more tender but watch for overcooking.
• Add Fresh Herbs Later – If using fresh herbs, add them towards the end of cooking to maintain their vibrant flavors and colors.
• Adjust Consistency – If you prefer a thicker sauce, consider adding cornstarch mixed with water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Angel Chicken

To complement your Crock Pot Angel Chicken, consider serving these delicious side dishes that enhance the overall meal.

1. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
2. Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus spears roasted until tender make for an elegant side that pairs wonderfully.
3. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs offers a subtle flavor that works well with the creamy sauce of the chicken.
4. Zucchini Noodles – For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles as an alternative base instead of pasta; they soak up flavors beautifully.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds sweetness and texture; grill or boil it for simplicity and taste.
6. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Crock Pot Angel Chicken can be a breeze, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking too long can lead to dry, stringy chicken. Aim for an internal temperature of 165F degrees to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
• Not seasoning adequately: Skipping seasoning can result in bland flavors. Be sure to season the chicken and sauce mix generously with salt and pepper.
• Using cold cream cheese: Cold cream cheese won’t blend well into your sauce. Always soften it to room temperature for a creamy consistency.
• Ignoring pasta cooking time: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions for al dente texture.
• Failing to spray the crock pot: Not spraying can lead to sticking and messy cleanup. Always use non-stick spray before adding ingredients.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure to let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing Crock Pot Angel Chicken

• You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Crock Pot Angel Chicken

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium-low heat, add the chicken and sauce, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crock Pot Angel Chicken?

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a delicious dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a creamy Italian-inspired sauce, served over angel hair pasta.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by an hour or so until they reach 165F degrees.

How do I customize my Crock Pot Angel Chicken?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers during cooking for added flavor and nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Crock Pot Angel Chicken stores well and is perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Can I make this recipe low-carb?

Yes, you can substitute angel hair pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is not only simple to prepare but also offers rich flavors that everyone will love. This versatile recipe allows for endless customization options based on your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal any night of the week!