Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, Italian-inspired sauce, all served over a bed of angel hair pasta. This recipe stands out for its simplicity and rich flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy an impressive meal without much fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy sauce infused with Italian herbs elevates the taste of the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta or rice, or pair it with your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its comforting flavors.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for busy days—set it in the morning and come home to a warm dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this easy Crock Pot Angel Chicken recipe, ensure you have the right tools. These essentials will help you create this dish with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Ideal for searing chicken evenly, locking in flavor before slow cooking.
• Crock pot: Allows for hands-off cooking; perfect for busy schedules while ensuring tender results.
• Medium mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients smoothly.
• Whisk: Ensures even blending of ingredients, creating a velvety sauce.

Ingredients

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a simple dinner made with tender chicken breast in a creamy, Italian inspired sauce served over a bed of tender angel hair pasta!

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

1. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan.
3. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Once hot, add the chicken and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, combine 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and 3 tablespoons of softened butter.
2. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and dry Italian dressing mix to the bowl.
4. Whisk until fully combined.

Step 3: Assemble in the Crock Pot

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

Step 4: Cook

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

Step 5: Cook Pasta Before Serving

1. About 15 minutes before serving, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain once cooked.

Now you have a delicious Crock Pot Angel Chicken ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a comforting dish that pairs perfectly with various sides and garnishes. Serving this meal creatively can enhance its appeal and flavor, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Cracked Pepper – A light dusting of cracked black pepper adds a subtle kick.

Include Cheese

• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Serve with freshly grated Parmesan for added creaminess and richness.

Accompany with Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli – A side of steamed broccoli balances the rich flavors of the chicken with a healthy green option.
• Roasted Asparagus – Roasted asparagus provides a crunchy texture and earthy flavor to complement the dish.

Offer Bread Options

• Garlic Breadsticks – Serve warm garlic breadsticks on the side for a delightful dip into the creamy sauce.
• Crusty Baguette – Provide slices of crusty baguette to soak up every bit of sauce on your plate.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Angel Chicken

To ensure your Crock Pot Angel Chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips to follow. These suggestions will help you achieve tender chicken and flavorful sauce.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh garlic and high-quality broth to enhance the overall taste.
• Adjust Cooking Time – Monitor cooking time closely; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
• Sear Chicken Properly – Take time to sear the chicken until golden brown for added depth of flavor before slow cooking.
• Whisk Thoroughly – Ensure all ingredients in the sauce are well combined to avoid lumps and ensure even flavor distribution.
• Add Vegetables Early – For extra flavor, consider adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions into the crock pot during cooking.
• Let It Rest Before Serving – Allow the dish to rest briefly after cooking; this helps redistribute juices in the chicken, keeping it moist.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Serving your Crock Pot Angel Chicken with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a perfect base for soaking up sauce.
2. Cauliflower Rice – A lighter alternative, cauliflower rice adds texture without overwhelming the meal’s flavors.
3. Mixed Green Salad – A refreshing salad with vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast to the rich chicken dish.
4. Sautéed Spinach – Quickly sautéed spinach is nutritious and adds vibrant color to your plate.
5. Quinoa Pilaf – Fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs offers nutty flavors that pair well with creamy sauces.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes’ natural sweetness balances the savory notes of the angel chicken beautifully.
7. Couscous Salad – Light and fluffy couscous mixed with vegetables creates a delightful side that complements any protein.
8. Zucchini Noodles – For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini noodles offer a fresh twist while being light in calories.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will enhance your Crock Pot Angel Chicken experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the searing step: Searing the chicken before slow cooking adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step for a richer taste.
• Not checking the internal temperature: Always ensure your chicken reaches 165°F. Relying solely on cooking time can lead to undercooking.
• Using high-sodium ingredients: Opt for low or no sodium options in your cream of chicken soup and broth. This keeps your dish healthier and more balanced.
• Neglecting the pasta timing: Cooking the angel hair pasta too early can lead to mushiness. Prepare it just before serving for the best texture.
• Overcooking the chicken: While it’s tempting to leave it longer, overcooked chicken can become dry. Monitor cooking time closely for perfect results.
• Forgetting to season: A little salt and pepper can go a long way. Don’t forget to season both your chicken and sauce for enhanced flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crock Pot Angel Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Consider portioning for convenient meals later.

Reheating Crock Pot Angel Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot, usually about 2-4 minutes.
• Stovetop: Gently heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Crock Pot Angel Chicken that might help you.

What is Crock Pot Angel Chicken?

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

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While angel hair pasta pairs well, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer like penne or fettuccine.

How can I customize Crock Pot Angel Chicken?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor or swap out the dressing mix for different tastes.

Is there a low-carb option available?

Yes! You can serve Crock Pot Angel Chicken over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta for a low-carb meal.

How do I make it dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute cream cheese with a plant-based cream alternative and use dairy-free butter.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients according to your preferences. This dish makes for a delightful dinner option any night of the week!