Crockpot Angel Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a comforting dinner with minimal effort. This dish combines tender chicken with a rich, savory sauce made with cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and Italian dressing seasoning, all served over a bed of angel hair pasta. With the ease of a slow cooker, this meal practically cooks itself, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. In this recipe guide, you’ll learn everything you need to make this delicious meal, along with tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 packet Italian dressing seasoning mix
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 (4 oz) can sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 12 oz angel hair pasta
- Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken and Sauce
- Add Ingredients to the Crockpot: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and Italian dressing seasoning mix. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Pour the sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is fully covered. If using mushrooms, add them on top of the sauce.
Cook in the Crockpot
- Set the Crockpot: Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The slow cooker will tenderize the chicken and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Check for Doneness: After the cooking time, check that the chicken is cooked through. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and easily pull apart with a fork.
Prepare the Pasta
- Cook Angel Hair Pasta: About 15 minutes before serving, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically 3-4 minutes, until al dente.
- Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta and set it aside while you finish the chicken.
Shred the Chicken (Optional)
- Shred or Leave Whole: If you prefer shredded chicken, use two forks to pull the chicken apart in the crockpot. Otherwise, leave the chicken breasts whole for a more elegant presentation.
- Stir the Sauce: Stir the sauce in the crockpot to ensure it’s evenly combined, especially if the cream cheese has slightly separated.
Serve
- Plate the Pasta and Chicken: Place a serving of angel hair pasta on each plate. Top with a portion of the chicken and spoon the creamy sauce over everything.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of color and serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Use Softened Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is easier to mix and will incorporate more smoothly into the sauce. If your cream cheese is cold, microwave it in 10-second intervals until softened.
- Avoid Overcooking the Chicken: Slow-cooked chicken can dry out if overcooked. Stick to the recommended cooking time and check for doneness near the end of the cooking period.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, add a little extra chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy and pourable but not too runny.
Variations
- Use Different Cream Soups: If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom, substitute with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Add fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary for an aromatic twist. Stir them in just before serving to keep their flavor bright.
- Swap Out Pasta: While angel hair pasta is traditional, you can serve this dish over fettuccine, spaghetti, or even rice for a hearty twist.
- Add Veggies: For a more complete meal, add chopped spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce. These ingredients add color, texture, and extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy, comforting dish pairs well with a few complementary sides:
- Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.
- Steamed Veggies: A side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy chicken.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but cooking time may need to be adjusted. Cooking frozen chicken on low can be tricky as it might not reach a safe temperature quickly enough, so it’s generally safer to use thawed chicken. If you do use frozen chicken, set your crockpot to high and plan for an additional hour of cooking time.
2. Can I make this dish without a crockpot?
Yes, you can make Angel Chicken in a large skillet or Dutch oven. Simply cook the chicken breasts in a bit of butter until golden, then add the sauce ingredients. Simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is well combined.
3. How can I thicken or thin the sauce?
If you want a thicker sauce, add a slurry made from 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of water. Stir it in during the last 15 minutes of cooking. To thin the sauce, add more chicken broth or a splash of milk until you reach the desired consistency.
4. Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Absolutely! If you love cheese, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan over the chicken just before serving. The cheese will melt into the sauce, making it even richer and creamier.
5. How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce from drying out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Prep and Hands-Off Cooking: With the crockpot, this recipe is mostly hands-off, allowing you to focus on other things while dinner cooks itself.
- Comforting and Flavorful: The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and delicate pasta make this dish irresistibly comforting and satisfying.
- Perfect for Family Dinners or Special Occasions: This recipe is versatile enough for a casual weeknight dinner yet rich enough to serve for a family gathering or cozy weekend meal.
- Customizable: With various substitutions and add-ins, you can make this recipe suit your taste or dietary needs.
Conclusion
Crockpot Angel Chicken is the ultimate comfort food. Its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and delicate angel hair pasta create a dish that’s both hearty and elegant. With a crockpot to do most of the work, this recipe is a convenient option for busy weeknights, as well as a wonderful dish to share with family and friends.
This dish is also easily adaptable; you can customize the flavors, add your favorite vegetables, or adjust the consistency of the sauce to make it just right for you. Serve it with a few simple sides, and you’ll have a meal that’s sure to impress, whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening at home or hosting a family dinner.
Try this recipe for an easy, delicious dinner that’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a crockpot pro, Crockpot Angel Chicken is a must-try recipe that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite.
