Crockpot Angel Chicken

This crockpot angel chicken recipe is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, it features tender chicken in a creamy sauce served over angel hair pasta. Enjoy the ease of a slow cooker while savoring each bite of this satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply throw all ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and Italian dressing mix creates a rich, savory sauce that enhances the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over pasta, rice, or even steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both adults and kids alike with its creamy texture and delicious taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week for easy lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious crockpot angel chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Whisk
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: It allows for hands-free cooking, perfect for busy schedules.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl: Essential for melting butter and cream cheese without burning them.
• Whisk: A must-have for combining ingredients smoothly, ensuring a lump-free sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (or chicken tenderloins)
• 1/4 cup butter
• 4 oz. cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (reduced sodium)
• 1 packet Italian Salad dressing mix
• 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup (10.75 oz.)
• Kosher salt and black pepper to taste

For Serving

• 1 pound Angel hair pasta (for serving)
• chopped fresh chives or parsley (garnish)

How to Make Crockpot Angel Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Coat the interior of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine butter and cream cheese. Microwave in 20-30 second intervals until they mix smoothly.
– Whisk in chicken broth, Italian dressing mix, and cream of chicken soup. Ensure everything is well combined.

Step 3: Add Chicken to Crockpot

Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts (or tenderloins) in the slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce over the top, ensuring all the chicken is coated evenly.

Step 4: Cook in Slow Cooker

Cover and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender your chicken will be.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

When your chicken is nearly done, cook the angel hair pasta according to package directions.

Step 6: Season to Taste

Once everything is cooked, season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust as needed based on preference.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Serve the creamy crockpot angel chicken over the cooked angel hair pasta. Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley for an added touch of flavor and color!

How to Serve Crockpot Angel Chicken

Crockpot Angel Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Chives: Sprinkle fresh chives on top for a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
• Parsley Garnish: Add chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch that enhances the dish’s presentation.

Over Different Carbs

• Rice: Serve the chicken over fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty meal.
• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce complements buttery mashed potatoes beautifully.
• Quinoa: For a healthier option, use quinoa as a base; it adds protein and a nutty flavor.

Accompanied by Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients to your plate.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots pair well with the savory chicken flavors.
• Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach provides a nutritious side that balances the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Crockpot Angel Chicken

Perfecting your Crockpot Angel Chicken is easy with these tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Select fresh chicken breasts and good-quality cream cheese for improved flavor.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Check for doneness at 4 hours; cooking times can vary based on your slow cooker model.
• Add Vegetables for Flavor: Consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers to the slow cooker for extra depth in your sauce.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add garlic powder or Italian seasoning to customize the flavor profile.
• Thicken Sauce If Needed: For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow steam to escape.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Angel Chicken

Pair your Crockpot Angel Chicken with delicious side dishes to create a complete meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch, balancing the rich flavors of the chicken.
3. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with almonds offer a delightful crunch and earthy taste.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a classic side that complements any chicken dish wonderfully.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast, making it an excellent choice alongside creamy dishes.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty addition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help your Crockpot Angel Chicken turn out perfectly. Here are key pitfalls to watch for:

• Not using enough liquid: Ensure you have enough broth or sauce to keep the chicken moist while cooking. A lack of moisture may result in dry chicken.

• Ignoring cook times: Cooking on high instead of low can lead to overcooked chicken. Stick to the recommended 4-6 hours on low for best results.

• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your dish! Salt and pepper enhance flavor, so add to taste before serving.

• Overcrowding the crockpot: Avoid adding too much chicken at once. It can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recipe’s recommended quantity.

• Not garnishing: Presentation matters! Garnishing with fresh chives or parsley adds a lovely touch and extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crockpot Angel Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Crockpot Angel Chicken

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Crockpot Angel Chicken

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and reheat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth if needed, stir occasionally for even heating until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crockpot Angel Chicken?

Crockpot Angel Chicken is a creamy chicken dish made with tender chicken breasts cooked slowly in a flavorful sauce, typically served over pasta or rice.

How do I customize Crockpot Angel Chicken?

You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into the slow cooker for more nutrition and flavor.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; however, increase cooking time by about an hour if using frozen meat.

What sides pair well with Crockpot Angel Chicken?

Crockpot Angel Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How do I make it dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream for added richness.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Angel Chicken recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it on busy weeknights or special occasions, it delivers comforting flavors that everyone will love. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or pasta types!