CREAMY CROCKPOT ANGEL CHICKEN – easymealstoprep

I can still picture my grandma, apron tied tight, bustling around her tiny kitchen. The air was always filled with the most comforting aromas, and one dish that stands out in my memory is her creamy, dreamy chicken. It wasn’t until years later that I realized her secret weapon was a slow cooker. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Crockpot Angel Chicken you’ll ever make!

Why You’ll Absolutely Adore Crockpot Angel Chicken

Let’s be honest, life can get hectic. Between work, family, and everything in between, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a monumental task. That’s where Crockpot Angel Chicken swoops in to save the day! This recipe is the epitome of comfort food, a creamy, flavorful delight that requires minimal effort. Imagine tender chicken breasts, bathed in a luscious sauce, slow-cooked to perfection – ready to be served over a bed of your favorite pasta. It’s pure culinary magic, and I’m so excited to share it with you!

The Magic of Slow Cooking

What makes slow cooking so special? It’s simple: it allows flavors to meld and deepen over time, creating a richness that’s hard to achieve with other cooking methods. The low and slow heat also ensures that your chicken stays incredibly moist and tender. Plus, the hands-off nature of a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, freeing you up to tackle other tasks while dinner practically cooks itself. It’s a total win-win!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece. Don’t worry, it’s mostly pantry staples!

• Chicken Breasts: About 2 pounds, boneless and skinless.
• Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened. This is the key to that creamy, dreamy sauce!
• Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 (10.75 ounce) can. This adds richness and depth of flavor.
• Italian Dressing Mix: 1 (1 ounce) packet. For that delightful Italian flair.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. Because everything is better with garlic!
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Seasoning is essential.
• Cooked Pasta: Angel hair, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta, for serving.
• Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crockpot Angel Chicken Perfection

Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious and satisfying dinner on the table in no time.

1. Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease your crockpot with cooking spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking.
2. Place Chicken in Crockpot: Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the crockpot.
3. Soften Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This will ensure it blends smoothly into the sauce.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, Italian dressing mix, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
5. Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure they are fully coated.
6. Cook on Low: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. The chicken should be incredibly tender.
7. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the crockpot. The sauce will thicken slightly as you shred.
8. Serve Over Pasta: Cook your favorite pasta according to package directions. Drain the pasta and serve the shredded chicken and creamy sauce over the top.
9. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for a pop of color and added flavor.
10. Enjoy! Savor every bite of this creamy, comforting dish.

Success Tips for Crockpot Angel Chicken

Want to guarantee your Crockpot Angel Chicken is a resounding success? Here are a few of my golden rules:

• Don’t Overcook: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Keep an eye on it and test for doneness after 6 hours. It should shred easily with a fork.
• Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: For the richest, creamiest sauce, use full-fat cream cheese. The lower-fat versions can sometimes separate or not melt as smoothly.
• Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season your chicken and sauce generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavors and make the dish even more delicious. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Customize Your Flavors: Feel free to add other seasonings or ingredients to customize the flavor to your liking. Some great additions include onion powder, dried herbs (like thyme or rosemary), or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Thin the Sauce (If Needed): If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little chicken broth or milk. Add it a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Variations to Make it Your Own

The beauty of this Crockpot Angel Chicken recipe is its versatility. It’s a blank canvas just waiting for your personal touch! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add Vegetables: Toss in some frozen peas, broccoli florets, or sliced mushrooms during the last hour of cooking for a complete one-pot meal.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little kick.
• Make it Cheesy: Stir in a cup of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an extra cheesy delight.
• Use Different Protein: While chicken breasts are the classic choice, you could also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even pork tenderloin for a different twist.
• Serve it Differently: Instead of serving over pasta, try spooning the chicken mixture over rice, mashed potatoes, or even stuffing. It’s also delicious as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Crockpot Angel Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions:

• Pasta: As mentioned before, angel hair or fettuccine are classic choices, but any pasta you love will work.
• Rice: Serve over fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a healthier option.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food pairing.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
• Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are healthy and delicious additions.
• Garlic Bread: Because who can resist a warm slice of garlic bread with a creamy pasta dish?

Making Crockpot Angel Chicken a Part of Your Meal Plan

This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient for meal planning. Here’s how you can incorporate it into your weekly routine:

• Prep Ahead: You can easily prep the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Then, simply pour it over the chicken in the crockpot when you’re ready to cook.
• Freezer-Friendly: Cooked Crockpot Angel Chicken freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Batch Cooking: Make a double or triple batch of this recipe and freeze individual portions for quick and easy weeknight meals.

And if you are looking for other chicken recipes, you could always try this SMOTHERED CHICKEN recipe. Another great and creamy recipe to try is CHICKEN TORTELLINI HEAVEN. You could serve CHICKEN SLIDERS as a quick lunch or dinner option. For another creamy meal, try CREAMY CHICKEN AND RICE. For a tangy twist you could make MISSISSIPPI CHICKEN in your slow cooker. For a lighter recipe, you could also try CHICKEN PICCATA in your slow cooker.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely, because this dish is seriously addictive!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storing: Allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: You can reheat the chicken in the microwave, in a saucepan on the stovetop, or in the oven. If using the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. If using the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to the saucepan to prevent the sauce from drying out. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If using the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the simplest recipes, things can sometimes go awry. Here are a few common issues you might encounter with Crockpot Angel Chicken, and how to fix them:

• Sauce is Too Thick: If the sauce is too thick, add a little chicken broth or milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
• Sauce is Too Thin: If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by stirring in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with two tablespoons of cold water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Chicken is Dry: If the chicken seems dry, it may be overcooked. Next time, try reducing the cooking time or adding a little more liquid to the crockpot.
• Chicken is Not Cooked Through: If the chicken is not cooked through, continue cooking it for another hour or two, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Final Thoughts: A Culinary Hug in a Bowl

Crockpot Angel Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl. It’s the kind of dish that brings comfort, satisfaction, and a smile to everyone’s face. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want a delicious and effortless meal. So, go ahead and give it a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed. Happy cooking!

Creamy Crockpot Angel Chicken

Amelia

This Creamy Crockpot Angel Chicken recipe is the epitome of comfort food, featuring tender chicken breasts in a luscious, slow-cooked sauce. Served over your favorite pasta, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 450 kcal

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound cooked angel hair pasta, for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish optional
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish optional

• Lightly grease your crockpot with cooking spray.

• Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the crockpot.

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, Italian dressing mix, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.

• Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure they are fully coated.

• Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. The chicken should be incredibly tender. Check for doneness after 6 hours.

• Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the crockpot. The sauce will thicken slightly as you shred.

• Cook your favorite pasta according to package directions. Drain the pasta.

• Serve the shredded chicken and creamy sauce over the pasta.

• Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

• Enjoy!

For the richest, creamiest sauce, use full-fat cream cheese. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. To customize, add onion powder, dried herbs, or red pepper flakes. If the sauce is too thick, thin it with chicken broth or milk. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave, stovetop, or oven. Don’t overcook the chicken; test for doneness after 6 hours. For a complete meal, add frozen peas, broccoli florets, or sliced mushrooms during the last hour of cooking.