Cooking can often become a challenging task, especially when you’re juggling a busy schedule. That’s where recipes like Crock Pot Angel Chicken come to the rescue, making meal prep incredibly easy and stress-free. This dish, which marries the simplicity of slow cooking with the delightful flavors of cream cheese and Italian dressing, will quickly become a staple in your household.
Why We Love This Crock Pot Angel Chicken Recipe
One of the best parts about the Crock Pot Angel Chicken recipe is its unparalleled ease. The slow cooker allows you to set it and forget it, so you can focus on other tasks without worrying about dinner. All you need to do is prepare the ingredients, set the temperature, and let the magic happen.
Moreover, this recipe is not just simple; it’s incredibly versatile. You can modify it to fit your family’s tastes or dietary requirements. Additionally, the creamy sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it perfect for family dinners, celebrations, or even potlucks. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this is the kind of dish that makes everyone feel at home.
Ingredients about Crock Pot Angel Chicken
To create your flavorful Crock Pot Angel Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients. These pantry staples come together to form a dish that’s more than the sum of its parts.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet of Italian dressing mix
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 8 oz of cream cheese
- 8 oz of angel hair pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Gathering these ingredients is straightforward and likely won’t require a special trip to the grocery store. Many of them are items you may already have at home, making the planning even easier.
How to Make Crock Pot Angel Chicken Directions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get started on the cooking process. Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Crock Pot Angel Chicken:
- Begin by placing the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Make sure they are laid flat for even cooking.
- Next, sprinkle the entire packet of Italian dressing mix over the chicken. This will infuse the chicken with a burst of flavor as it cooks slowly.
- In a separate bowl, combine the can of cream of chicken soup with the chicken broth. Stir well until the mixture is smooth. Once combined, pour this creamy mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Now, cut the cream cheese into small chunks. Add these creamy pieces to the slow cooker. The cream cheese will melt and create a rich sauce as it cooks.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. During this time, the chicken will become tender and infused with the flavors of the soup and dressing.
- Approximately 30 minutes before your dish is ready, prepare the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to prepare it al dente, as it will absorb some sauce from the chicken later.
- Once the chicken has cooked through, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. Stir the shredded chicken into the creamy sauce to ensure it’s well combined.
- When the pasta is finished cooking, drain it and serve it on plates. Spoon the chicken mixture over the angel hair pasta for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
- As a final touch, garnish with chopped parsley if using. This adds a touch of color and freshness to the dish.
And just like that, you’ve transformed simple ingredients into a decadent meal that is sure to impress!
How to Serve Crock Pot Angel Chicken
Serving Crock Pot Angel Chicken is an enjoyable experience because it’s versatile. You can pair it with various sides to create a well-rounded meal. The creamy chicken mixture served over angel hair pasta is a classic option that everyone will appreciate. You might also consider:
- Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli or green beans can provide a nice balance to the richness of the chicken.
- Garlic Bread: Everyone loves a slice of garlic bread, especially when there’s a creamy sauce to soak it up.
- Salads: A fresh side salad with crisp greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish.
Don’t hesitate to let your creativity shine! Experiment with different sides to make the meal uniquely yours.
Expert Tips: Crock Pot Angel Chicken
To elevate your Crock Pot Angel Chicken experience, consider these expert tips:
- Don’t Skip the Browning: If you have extra time, consider browning the chicken breasts in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker. This can enhance the flavor and add a nice color.
- Customize the Flavors: Feel free to add freshly minced garlic, your favorite herbs, or even a dash of hot sauce for a kick. This recipe is quite forgiving, making it perfect for experimentation.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Since slow cookers can vary, check the chicken at the 4-hour mark to prevent overcooking. Tender, juicy chicken is the goal.
- Use Leftovers Wisely: If you have any leftovers, store them properly! This meal can be just as enjoyable the next day.
- Keep It Creamy: If you prefer a thicker sauce, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added thickness.
Each of these tips can help you create an even more delightful dining experience, allowing you to enjoy the recipe time and again.
How to Store Crock Pot Angel Chicken
Storing your Crock Pot Angel Chicken is simple. Once it has cooled down to room temperature, follow these steps:
- Refrigerate: Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. They will remain fresh for up to 3 to 4 days.
- Freeze for Later: If you want to prepare ahead of time, string the cooled chicken mixture into freezer-safe bags or containers. This can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat with Care: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Make sure it’s heated through before serving.
Freezing or refrigerating wisely helps you enjoy this comfort dish for days, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Variation of Crock Pot Angel Chicken
One of the best aspects of the Crock Pot Angel Chicken is its adaptability! Here are some variations to consider, allowing you to tailor the recipe to suit your family’s preferences:
- Vegetable Additions: Toss in a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach just before the cooking time ends. These will add color, nutrients, and flavor to your dish.
- Different Pasta: While angel hair pasta is a delightful choice, you could use any other type of pasta you have on hand, such as penne, fettuccine, or even whole grain options.
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Incorporate shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This adds a flavorful twist and a cheesy finish that everyone will love.
- Herb Variations: Instead of using Italian dressing mix, you can use ranch seasoning or a mix of fresh herbs. Just experiment to find the flavor combination that appeals to you most.
- Add a Zing: Squeeze in some lemon juice or toss in sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of acidity that might brighten up the dish.
These variations allow you to customize each batch, ensuring that you never get tired of this excellent Crock Pot Angel Chicken recipe!
FAQ
What is Crock Pot Angel Chicken?
Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish made with chicken breasts, Italian dressing mix, cream of chicken soup, and cream cheese. It cooks slowly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a comforting meal over pasta.
How do you make Crock Pot Angel Chicken?
To make this dish, simply place the chicken in the slow cooker, add the Italian dressing mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and cream cheese. Cook it on low for 4 to 6 hours, shred the chicken, and serve it over cooked pasta.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
While it’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just extend the cooking time by an hour or so and ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.
How can I store leftover Crock Pot Angel Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months for future meals.
Can I vary the recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables, use different types of pasta, try new seasonings, and experiment with different cheeses. This recipe is versatile and can be tailored to suit your taste preferences.
Crock Pot Angel Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet Italian dressing mix
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese cut into small chunks
- 8 oz angel hair pasta prepared according to package instructions
- to taste salt and pepper
- to taste chopped parsley for garnish, optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the chicken breasts flat in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the Italian dressing mix over the chicken.
- Combine the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth in a separate bowl, stir until smooth, and pour it over the chicken.
- Add the cream cheese chunks to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions.
- Once the chicken is cooked, shred it in the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce.
- Serve the chicken mixture over the cooked angel hair pasta.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
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