Introduction

This Crock Pot Angel Chicken recipe offers tender, creamy chicken cooked low and slow for maximum flavor and juiciness. Paired with delicate angel hair pasta, it’s a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or easy weekend dinners.

Crock Pot Angel Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1-2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large chicken breasts)
4 ounces (½ block) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
3 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup (low or no sodium recommended if sensitive to salt)
3 cloves garlic, minced
¾ cup chicken broth (low or no sodium recommended if sensitive to salt)
1 (0.7 ounce) packet Good Seasons Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix (or your favorite mix)
16 ounce box angel hair pasta
Chopped fresh parsley, cracked pepper, and/or grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Once the pan is hot, sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from heat.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Step 4: Add the cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and Italian dressing mix to the bowl. Whisk until fully combined.
Step 5: Spray the inside of a crock pot with non-stick cooking spray. Place the seared chicken breasts in the bottom of the pot.
Step 6: Pour the soup mixture over the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. For more tender, easily shredded chicken, cook longer if desired.
Step 7: Shortly before serving, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions to al dente. Drain well.
Step 8: Serve the chicken breasts whole or shred them. Either toss the pasta with the sauce or spoon the chicken and sauce over the pasta for individual servings.
Step 9: Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, cracked pepper, and/or grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips & Variations

Use low or no sodium chicken broth and cream of chicken soup to control salt levels.
For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
Swap angel hair pasta for fettuccine or penne if preferred.
Leftover chicken can be shredded and mixed into casseroles or salads.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Pasta is best served fresh but can be reheated with a little extra liquid to maintain moisture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and stay juicy with slow cooking. Adjust cooking time as thighs may cook faster or slower depending on size.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before adding it to the crock pot?

Searing adds extra flavor and color but can be skipped if you’re short on time. The chicken will still cook thoroughly and be tender in the crock pot.