Crockpot Angel Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: Simply toss the ingredients in your crockpot and let it do all the work.
• Rich and creamy flavor: The combination of cream cheese, butter, and cream of chicken soup creates a luscious sauce that pairs beautifully with the chicken and pasta.
• Versatile: Great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt the ingredients or add vegetables for extra nutrition.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1.5 pounds chicken breast, boneless and skinless
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped or left whole
• 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
• ¾ cup chicken stock
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• ¼ cup butter
• 0.6 ounces Italian dressing mix (Good Seasons recommended)
• 1 pound angel hair pasta

Directions

1. Spray the inside of your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and add the garlic.
3. Soften the butter and cream cheese in the microwave, then whisk until smooth.
4. Whisk in the cream of chicken soup (do not dilute it).
5. Add the Italian dressing mix and chicken stock, whisking until well combined.
6. Pour the mixture over the chicken breasts.
7. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
8. (Optional) About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it into the sauce.
9. Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions just before the chicken is done. Drain the pasta.
10. Serve the chicken and sauce over the pasta, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes–8 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Stir in fresh or frozen vegetables like peas, spinach, or mushrooms during the last hour of cooking.
• Swap the pasta: Use spaghetti, fettuccine, or even rice as an alternative to angel hair pasta.
• Lighten it up: Opt for low-fat cream cheese and cream of chicken soup to reduce calories.
• Add spice: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a kick.
• Herb twist: Add fresh or dried herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or milk to maintain the creamy texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce (without pasta) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed.

FAQs

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Ensure the cream cheese is softened and whisked well with the other ingredients before adding it to the crockpot.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and may even stay juicier during slow cooking.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure the cream of chicken soup and Italian dressing mix are gluten-free.

What can I use instead of Italian dressing mix?

You can use a homemade mix of dried herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of sugar.

How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?

Cook on low and check for doneness around the 6-hour mark. Slow cookers vary in temperature.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just make sure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the ingredients.

Should I shred the chicken?

Shredding is optional but helps the chicken absorb more of the flavorful sauce.

Can I make this without a crockpot?

Yes, cook the chicken and sauce in a covered baking dish at 300°F for 2–3 hours or until tender.

What side dishes go well with this?

Serve with a green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use fresh garlic instead of whole cloves?

Yes, minced fresh garlic works well for a more pronounced flavor.

Conclusion

Crockpot Angel Chicken is the perfect solution for a hearty, delicious dinner without the fuss. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and delicate pasta combine to create a meal your family will ask for again and again. With endless variations and simple ingredients, this recipe is a must-try for any busy home cook. Give it a go and enjoy the comforting flavors of this slow-cooked delight!