If you’ve been on the lookout for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that practically makes itself, then the Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish is a creamy, flavorful delight that brings tender chicken, luscious sauce, and delicate angel hair pasta together in perfect harmony. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, yet full of rich textures and comforting flavors that will make any dinner feel special. Whether you’re feeding the family or want a fuss-free weeknight meal, this recipe has got you covered.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, each playing a crucial role to achieve that irresistibly creamy and savory flavor that defines this dish. From the Italian dressing mix that adds a punch of zesty herbs, to the rich cream cheese and butter that create a velvety sauce, every element has been thoughtfully chosen for taste and texture.
- Boneless chicken breasts: The star protein that becomes tender and juicy during slow cooking.
- Italian dressing mix: Packs a flavorful punch of herbs and spices to season the sauce.
- Cream cheese: Adds luxurious creaminess and tang for a smooth sauce.
- Butter: Enhances the richness and deepens flavor with a silky finish.
- Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: Forms the hearty, comforting base of the sauce without overpowering other flavors.
- Chicken broth or white wine: Keeps the sauce moist and adds subtle depth.
- Angel hair pasta: A delicate pasta that perfectly carries the sauce without overshadowing the chicken.
How to Make Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by placing the boneless chicken breasts directly into the slow cooker. These will gently cook throughout the day, absorbing all those lovely flavors from the sauce, which will keep them tender and juicy.
Step 2: Melt and Mix the Sauce
In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the Italian dressing mix, cream cheese, butter, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth or white wine. Stir everything together just until the cream cheese melts completely and mingles with the soup, creating a smooth, creamy sauce. This step ensures the flavors are perfectly blended before mixing with the chicken.
Step 3: Combine and Cook
Pour the luscious sauce over the chicken breasts inside the slow cooker. Cover it up and switch the appliance on to low. Let the magic happen for 4 to 6 hours. This slow and steady cooking method results in chicken that falls apart tender and a sauce that’s rich and flavorful.
Step 4: Prepare Pasta
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to eat, cook your angel hair pasta according to package instructions. This thin pasta is ideal for soaking up the creamy sauce and keeping the dish light and elegant.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a fresh garnish can elevate your Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Recipe beautifully. Consider a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil, which adds a pop of vibrant green and a fresh herbaceous note. A little cracked black pepper or grated Parmesan cheese on top can also intensify the flavor and create an inviting presentation.
Side Dishes
This creamy chicken pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add freshness and variety to your plate. A warm crusty bread would also be perfect for mopping up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chicken and sauce over a bed of spiralized zucchini or roasted vegetables for a lighter take. Alternatively, layer the chicken and sauce over a casserole dish of baked pasta and cheese for a comforting twist. Serving in wide shallow bowls encourages everyone to dig in and enjoy the sauce with each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. The Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Recipe keeps wonderfully for up to 3 days while maintaining its creamy texture and delicious flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce for longer storage. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to leave some space for expansion. It will be best enjoyed within 2 to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For reheating, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts to avoid overcooking the chicken. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless breasts?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs or breasts will work, but keep in mind that cooking times may be slightly longer, and the meat will be a bit more tender and juicy due to the bone.
Is it possible to make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
You can adapt this dish for an Instant Pot by using the sauté function to melt the sauce ingredients, then cooking the chicken on high pressure for about 10 minutes, followed by a natural release. Just be sure to adjust liquid amounts slightly to avoid burning.
What type of pasta should I use if I don’t have angel hair?
While angel hair pasta is traditional here for its delicate texture, thin spaghetti or linguine are great substitutes. You want something light that won’t overpower the creamy sauce and tender chicken.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Yes! Adding chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach in the last hour of cooking can boost the nutrition and add wonderful color without affecting the cooking time too much.
Does the Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Recipe freeze well?
Definitely. This recipe freezes beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Just be sure to reheat gently to preserve the creaminess of the sauce and tenderness of the chicken.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like coming home to a warm, homemade meal that’s both effortless and deeply satisfying. The Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Recipe delivers on that promise with its luscious sauce, tender chicken, and simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Give it a try soon—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Slow Cooker Angel Chicken is a creamy, comforting dish where tender chicken breasts are cooked in a rich Italian herb-infused sauce made with cream cheese, butter, and cream of chicken soup. This easy set-and-forget slow cooker recipe results in perfectly moist chicken served over delicate angel hair pasta, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
Sauce
- 1 (0.7-oz) packet Italian dressing mix
- 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 3 Tbsp butter, room temperature
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
- ¾ cup chicken broth or white wine
Serving
- cooked angel hair pasta
Instructions
- Place Chicken in Crockpot: Arrange the 4 boneless chicken breasts evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Prepare Sauce: In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the Italian dressing mix, cream cheese, butter, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth (or white wine). Heat, stirring frequently, until the cream cheese is fully melted and the ingredients are blended into a smooth sauce.
- Combine and Cook: Pour the prepared creamy sauce evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid securely.
- Slow Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook the chicken and sauce for 4 to 6 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the flavorful angel chicken over cooked angel hair pasta, spooning extra sauce atop for maximum flavor.
Notes
- For best texture, use fresh cream cheese and butter at room temperature for easier incorporation into the sauce.
- You can substitute white wine with chicken broth for a milder flavor and to keep the recipe alcohol-free.
- Cooking time can vary slightly depending on your slow cooker; check chicken for doneness before serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- This recipe pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.
