Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is the perfect dish for busy weeknights. This easy recipe features tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, creamy sauce, served over delicate angel hair pasta. Whether you’re hosting friends or preparing a cozy family dinner, this dish delivers on flavor and simplicity. With minimal prep and the magic of a crock pot, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just sear the chicken and let your crock pot do the work.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy sauce infused with Italian herbs elevates this dish to gourmet status.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta, rice, or even with crusty bread for a hearty meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for lunch leftovers.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy texture and savory taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make Crock Pot Angel Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Crock pot
• Whisk
• Medium bowl
• Non-stick cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Ideal for searing chicken evenly, which enhances flavor.
• Crock pot: Allows for hands-off cooking while ensuring your chicken stays moist and tender.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly, ensuring a creamy sauce.
• Non-stick cooking spray: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Ingredients

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is made with simple yet flavorful ingredients that create a delectable meal.

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 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)

How to Make Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

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

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Once the pan is hot, place the chicken breasts in it and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and 3 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter. Whisk until smooth. Then add in 10.5 ounces of cream of chicken soup, 3 minced cloves of garlic, ¾ cup chicken broth, and 1 packet of Good Seasons Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix. Whisk until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble in the Crock Pot

Spray the inside of your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray. Place the seared chicken breasts at the bottom of the pot. Pour the creamy soup mixture over the top of the chicken.

Step 5: Cook It Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F degrees. Remember that longer cooking times will result in more tender chicken but may cause it to fall apart.

Step 6: Cook Pasta Before Serving

Shortly before serving time, cook a 16-ounce box of angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain when cooked.

Enjoy your homemade Crock Pot Angel Chicken!

How to Serve Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.

Over Angel Hair Pasta

• The classic choice! Serve the creamy chicken and sauce over a bed of cooked angel hair pasta for a satisfying meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil to add a burst of freshness and color.

Topped with Parmesan Cheese

• Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor and richness.

On a Bed of Greens

• Place the chicken over a mix of spinach or arugula for a lighter, healthier option that complements the rich sauce.

With Garlic Bread

• Serve alongside toasted garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite even more enjoyable.

Paired with a Side Salad

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken dish.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Angel Chicken

For the best results when making Crock Pot Angel Chicken, keep these tips in mind.

• Sear the Chicken: Always sear the chicken breasts before placing them in the crock pot. This adds flavor and helps lock in moisture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed based on your preferences. Every palate is different!
• Monitor Cooking Time: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures it’s perfectly cooked.
• Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for low-sodium cream of chicken soup and broth if you’re watching your salt intake. It makes a difference in flavor!
• Let it Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps redistribute juices for better flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Angel Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli provides a vibrant color contrast on your plate.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the rich sauce beautifully.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds texture and sweetness, balancing out the savory flavors.
4. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crunch and tanginess that pairs well with creamy dishes.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs makes an excellent base to soak up all that delicious sauce.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is easy to prepare and brings summer vibes to your table, especially when grilled or roasted.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds freshness without overpowering the main dish.
8. Baked Zucchini Fries: These crispy zucchini fries provide a fun twist while adding some veggies into your meal!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Angel Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking for too long can result in dry chicken. Always check the internal temperature and aim for 165F degrees.
• Skipping the searing step: Searing adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for enhancing the dish’s overall taste.
• Not using enough seasoning: Without proper seasoning, your dish may lack depth. Taste your sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed before cooking.
• Ignoring pasta cooking times: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Always follow package instructions to achieve perfect al dente pasta.
• Choosing low-quality ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will elevate your dish. Choose good quality chicken broth and cream cheese for better flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Crock Pot Angel Chicken

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Crock Pot Angel Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350F degrees. Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth if needed, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crock Pot Angel Chicken?

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a delicious meal featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy Italian-style sauce served over angel hair pasta.

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

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to extend the cooking time by 1-2 hours on low heat. Always ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165F degrees.

What can I serve with Crock Pot Angel Chicken?

Crock Pot Angel Chicken pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables. You can also add garlic bread for a complete meal.

How do I make this recipe healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using low-fat cream cheese and unsalted butter. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the sauce.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is an easy and comforting dinner option that everyone will love. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s perfect for busy nights or family gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or experimenting with different seasonings!