Slow Cooker Angel Chicken is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of chicken, cream cheese, and a savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe leverages the magic of a slow cooker to ensure your chicken remains tender and juicy while infusing it with flavors that dance on your palate. Imagine coming home after a long day to the inviting aroma of a home-cooked meal, ready to serve with minimal effort. This dish not only simplifies cooking but also elevates standard chicken into something extraordinary.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Recipe
If you’re looking for a delectable meal that requires minimal prep time but delivers maximum flavor, Slow Cooker Angel Chicken is an absolute winner. You will love how the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy, savory sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet is straightforward to prepare. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Ingredients about Slow Cooker Angel Chicken
For this sumptuous dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 10.5 ounces canned cream of chicken soup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.7 ounce packet Italian dry salad dressing mix
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 16 ounces angel hair pasta
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Cracked black pepper, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Directions
Ready to dive into the cooking process? Start by seasoning your boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. This seasoning is essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon or two of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, sear the seasoned chicken breasts until they develop a beautiful golden-brown color on both sides. This step not only adds depth to the flavor but also locks in moisture.
While the chicken is searing, you can prepare the creamy sauce. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Blend them well until they achieve a smooth consistency. Then, add the canned cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and the Italian dry salad dressing mix. Stir it all together until the mixture is completely smooth and evenly mixed. The result should be a creamy, flavorful sauce that will coat your chicken beautifully.
Now it’s time to set everything up in the slow cooker. Spray the inside of the slow cooker with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Layer the seared chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker and then pour the creamy sauce over them. Ensure the chicken is well coated in the sauce for maximum flavor infusion during cooking.
Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Let the chicken cook for 3 to 4 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. During this time, the chicken will become incredibly tender, soaking up all the flavors from the sauce, which will also thicken beautifully.
While the chicken is cooking, you can approach your pasta preparation. About 10-15 minutes before your chicken is done, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Once fully cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
When your chicken is ready, carefully remove it from the slow cooker, and using two forks, shred it into large pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it gently to coat with the sauce. Serve generous portions of the chicken and creamy sauce over the angel hair pasta. Don’t forget to garnish your dish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, cracked black pepper, and, for an extra touch of delight, grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Angel Chicken
Serving Slow Cooker Angel Chicken is a breeze thanks to its rich and creamy texture combined with tender chicken. Start by plating a generous serving of angel hair pasta in each bowl, ensuring you have enough room for the sauce alongside the chicken. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to drizzle the luscious sauce over the pasta, followed by distributing the shredded chicken, which will melt into the sauce beautifully. To elevate your dish further, grab some freshly chopped parsley and sprinkle it generously on top for a splash of color and freshness.
If you have some grated Parmesan cheese on hand, it adds an irresistible salty note that pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the sauce. You might want to offer some cracked black pepper on the side for those who enjoy a bit more spice. Your guests will be dazzled by not only the flavor but also the stunning presentation of this seemingly gourmet dish.
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Angel Chicken
To make the most of your Slow Cooker Angel Chicken, consider these expert tips for optimal flavor and texture. Start with high-quality chicken breasts to ensure tenderness and flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes or adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
When searing the chicken, don’t overcrowd the pan. This ensures each piece browns evenly, enhancing the flavor. Additionally, feel free to play around with the herbs in your cream sauce; adding a teaspoon of dried basil or oregano can introduce new flavors and complement the Italian dressing.
If you want a richer flavor, replace some of the chicken broth with white broth or place half and half in the sauce instead of all cream cheese. For a complete meal, include seasonal vegetables in the slow cooker. Carrots, celery, or peas can be lovely additions that round out the dish while providing nourishing components.
Lastly, if time allows, let the dish sit in the slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting for about 30 minutes after cooking. This allows flavors to merge more profoundly and enhances the overall taste experience.
How to Store Slow Cooker Angel Chicken
Storing Slow Cooker Angel Chicken is simple and allows for later enjoyment. Begin by allowing any leftovers to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the chicken and sauce into an airtight container. It is best to separate the pasta from the chicken to keep it from becoming too soggy. Store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you have made a large batch and want to keep it longer, consider freezing the chicken and sauce. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to remove as much air as possible before sealing. The dish can be stored for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy your Slow Cooker Angel Chicken again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Variation of Slow Cooker Angel Chicken
While the classic Slow Cooker Angel Chicken is undeniably delicious, there are several fun variations you can try to keep it fresh and exciting. For a Mediterranean twist, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes and spinach into your sauce. Simply chop up some sun-dried tomatoes and add them to the cream cheese and broth mixture. Toss in a handful of fresh spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a pop of color and nutrition.
If you enjoy a bit of tanginess, try adding lemon juice and zest to the sauce. This will provide a refreshing change and brighten the flavors. Alternatively, switch up your pasta choice by using fettuccine or even zucchini noodles for a lighter, low-carb option.
For those who crave a little spice, you might add sliced jalapeños or a bit of chipotle chili powder to the sauce mix for a smoky kick. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect flavor combination that suits your family and guests.
FAQ
What is Slow Cooker Angel Chicken?
Slow Cooker Angel Chicken is a comforting dish made with tender chicken breasts slow-cooked in a creamy sauce that includes cream cheese, chicken soup, and Italian dressing, served over a bed of angel hair pasta.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Angel Chicken?
It typically takes about 3 to 4 hours on low heat for your Slow Cooker Angel Chicken to reach the perfect temperature of 165°F and become irresistibly tender.
Can I make Slow Cooker Angel Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and refrigerate it for a couple of days, or you can freeze portions for later meals. Just make sure to store the pasta separately to maintain its texture.
What sides go well with Slow Cooker Angel Chicken?
This dish is rich and satisfying, so light sides such as a crisp salad or steamed vegetables work wonderfully. Additionally, a loaf of crusty bread can be served to soak up the delicious sauce.
Can I adjust the ingredients in Slow Cooker Angel Chicken?
Yes! Feel free to swap out certain ingredients, such as using low-fat cream cheese or substituting fresh herbs for dried ones. You can also add vegetables for extra nutrition or swap the pasta for a different variety.
Slow Cooker Angel Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts High-quality chicken for tenderness
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened Used for the creamy sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 10.5 ounces canned cream of chicken soup Base for the creamy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor to the sauce
- 0.7 ounce packet Italian dry salad dressing mix
- 3/4 cup chicken broth For the sauce
- Salt to taste Salt, to taste Adjust according to preference
- Black pepper to taste Black pepper, to taste Adjust according to preference
- 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil For searing chicken
Pasta and Garnishes
- 16 ounces angel hair pasta Pasta to serve with the chicken
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish Adds color and freshness to the dish
- Cracked black pepper for garnish Cracked black pepper, for garnish Optional topping
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional) Enhances the flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon or two of vegetable oil.
- Sear the seasoned chicken breasts until they develop a golden-brown color on both sides.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter, blending until smooth.
- Add the canned cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and Italian dressing mix to the bowl and stir until smooth.
- Spray the inside of the slow cooker with non-stick spray.
- Layer the seared chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker and pour the creamy sauce over them.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- About 10-15 minutes before the chicken is done, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Once the chicken is done, shred it with two forks and return it to the slow cooker, stirring gently to coat in the sauce.
- Serve the chicken and sauce generously over the angel hair pasta.
Serving
- Plate a generous serving of angel hair pasta in each bowl, drizzle with sauce, and distribute the shredded chicken on top.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, cracked black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
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