Crock Pot Angel Chicken
Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts in a creamy, flavorful sauce, served over delicate angel hair pasta. I stumbled upon this recipe during a particularly busy week and was blown away by how simple yet satisfying it turned out. It’s the perfect blend of comfort food and easy cooking, making it a favorite for families and busy cooks alike. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this dish has a special place in your heart and on your table.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe is a treasure for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Simply throw everything into your crock pot, and let it work its magic while you tend to the rest of your day. It’s also budget-friendly, using just a handful of accessible ingredients. Plus, who can resist that creamy texture and savory flavor? It’s a hit with both kids and adults alike, so you can feel confident serving it to your family or at a casual gathering.
“This is my go-to recipe on hectic days! It’s so easy and always turns out delicious!”
The cooking process explained
Making Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a breeze! You’ll start by layering chicken breasts in the crock pot. Then, whip up a creamy mixture of cream of mushroom soup, Italian dressing mix, and cream cheese, and pour that over the chicken. Cover and let it cook slowly for six to eight hours until you’re left with tender, shreddable chicken. Just before serving, boil some angel hair pasta, shred the chicken into the sauce, and dinner is ready!
What you’ll need
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet Italian dressing mix
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 lb angel hair pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For substitutions, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra flavor or a different type of pasta if you prefer.
Step-by-step instructions
- Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crock pot.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, Italian dressing mix, and cream cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is fully coated.
- Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours, or until the chicken is fork-tender.
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions.
- Once the chicken is done, shred it directly in the crock pot and stir it into the creamy sauce.
- Serve this luscious chicken over the cooked pasta, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Best ways to enjoy it
Crock Pot Angel Chicken shines when plated beautifully! Serve the creamy chicken heaped over the angel hair pasta, and don’t forget to sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a dash of brightness. Accompany it with a side salad for contrast, or some steamed vegetables for added nutrition. A slice of crusty bread would also complement this dish nicely, perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce!
How to store & freeze
To keep your leftovers fresh, let the remaining chicken cool down to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze the chicken and sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Just remember to label your containers with dates!
Helpful cooking tips
- For extra flavor, consider sautéing garlic and onion before adding the creamy mixture to the crock pot.
- You can also throw in some chopped vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, to boost nutrition and add color.
- If you’re short on time, you can use cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts; simply mix the sauce and warm it through.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some ideas to mix things up:
- Add diced tomatoes or mushrooms to the sauce for additional flavor.
- Swap out the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or even a zesty salsa for a different taste.
- Want to make it healthier? Try using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a lighter creaminess.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare and cook this dish?
The prep time is minimal, around 10 minutes, and then it cooks in the crock pot for 6-8 hours.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While angel hair is delicious, feel free to swap it for penne or fettuccine if you prefer.
Is it safe to freeze leftover chicken?
Yes, as long as you store it properly in airtight containers and consume it within three months, freezing is safe for this dish.
Crock Pot Angel Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting option for any dinner table, beckoning with its creamy flavor and ease of preparation. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Crock Pot Angel Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crock pot.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, Italian dressing mix, and cream cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
- Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours, or until the chicken is fork-tender.
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions.
- Once the chicken is done, shred it directly in the crock pot and stir it into the creamy sauce.
- Serve the creamy chicken heaped over the cooked pasta, garnished with fresh parsley for brightness.
