Slow Cooker Angel Chicken

Slow Cooker Angel Chicken is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or special gatherings. This creamy, comforting meal combines tender chicken with a luscious sauce made from Italian dressing mix and cream cheese, all served over delicate angel hair pasta. Its hands-off cooking method makes it an ideal choice for those who want a flavorful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy sauce infused with Italian seasoning makes every bite delightful.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting chicken dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta, rice, or even with crusty bread for dipping.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make a big difference when preparing Slow Cooker Angel Chicken. Here are some essential items you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Non-stick cooking spray or slow cooker liner
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Forks (for shredding chicken)
• Pot (for cooking pasta)

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the heart of the recipe, allowing you to create a rich, slow-cooked flavor without constant attention.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine the creamy sauce ingredients smoothly, ensuring a consistent texture.
• Mixing bowl: It’s essential for easily mixing your sauce before adding it to the chicken.

Ingredients

A creamy, set-it-and-forget-it chicken dinner made in the slow cooker with Italian dressing mix and cream cheese served over angel hair pasta.

For the Chicken

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped or left whole

For the Sauce

• 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup (undiluted)
• ¾ cup chicken stock
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup butter, softened
• 0.6 ounces dry Italian dressing mix (Good Seasons recommended)

For Serving

• 1 pound angel hair pasta, cooked according to package directions

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Slow Cooker Angel Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

Start by spraying the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Layer Chicken and Garlic

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add in the garlic cloves either chopped or whole based on your preference.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, soften the butter and cream cheese in the microwave. Whisk them together until smooth. Then add the undiluted cream of chicken soup, dry Italian dressing mix, and chicken stock. Whisk until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour this creamy sauce mixture over the chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours until the chicken is tender.

Step 5: Shred Chicken (Optional)

About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken breasts using two forks right in the slow cooker. This helps infuse even more flavor into each bite as it cooks in the sauce longer.

Step 6: Cook Pasta

Just before your chicken is done cooking, prepare your angel hair pasta according to package directions. Drain well when finished.

Step 7: Serve

Serve this creamy chicken over a bed of angel hair pasta and garnish with fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy your Slow Cooker Angel Chicken!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Angel Chicken

Slow Cooker Angel Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your meal and impress your family or guests.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the creaminess of the dish.

Over Different Pasta Varieties

• Fettuccine: Instead of angel hair, serve the chicken over fettuccine for a heartier option.
• Penne: Use penne pasta to capture more of the creamy sauce in its tubular shape.

Accompanied by Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: A side of steamed broccoli adds nutrition and color to your plate.
• Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil enhances the meal’s presentation and flavor profile.

With Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up every bit of this creamy dish.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Angel Chicken

To ensure your Slow Cooker Angel Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken breasts and garlic will enhance the flavor of your dish significantly.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Every slow cooker is different. Check your chicken at 6 hours; it should shred easily when done.
• Add Vegetables Early: If you want to include vegetables like bell peppers or onions, add them at the beginning for better texture and flavor integration.
• Thicken Sauce Optionally: For a thicker sauce, remove some liquid before serving and whisk in a cornstarch slurry.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps flavors meld together.
• Garnish Creatively: Experiment with different garnishes like grated Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Angel Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Angel Chicken can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken, with crunchy romaine and tangy dressing.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes complement the richness of the chicken while adding comfort to your meal.
3. Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds offer a crunchy texture and fresh taste.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings brightness and crunch, balancing out the creaminess of the main dish.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds a healthy grain option, providing fiber and protein alongside your chicken.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is fun to eat and adds a pop of sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Angel Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Being aware of these can help you achieve the best results.

• Using frozen chicken: Always use fresh or thawed chicken breast for even cooking. Frozen chicken can cook unevenly and may not absorb the flavors well.
• Not shredding the chicken: If you skip shredding the chicken halfway through cooking, you might miss out on enhancing the flavor. Shredding allows the meat to soak up more of the creamy sauce.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking angel hair pasta too long can lead to mushiness. Follow package instructions closely and drain it just before serving.
• Skipping the butter: Neglecting to include butter in your sauce can make it less creamy and rich. Butter adds a nice depth of flavor that enhances the dish.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Depending on your taste, you may want to tweak the seasoning. Taste your sauce as it cooks and adjust if needed for a better flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Slow Cooker Angel Chicken

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2–3 months for best quality.

Reheating Slow Cooker Angel Chicken

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Slow Cooker Angel Chicken spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for extra heat. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste.

Can I use other types of pasta with this dish?

Yes! While angel hair pasta is recommended, you can use spaghetti or fettuccine instead. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Angel Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. Garlic bread also makes a great side!

How can I customize my Slow Cooker Angel Chicken recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into the slow cooker for added nutrition and flavor.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use lactose-free cream of chicken soup if needed.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Angel Chicken is not only creamy and delicious but also incredibly versatile. This set-it-and-forget-it meal is perfect for busy nights, allowing you to customize it easily with different spices or veggies. Give this easy dinner recipe a try; you’re sure to love it!