If you love cozy, comforting meals that practically cook themselves, then you are going to adore this Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Recipe. It’s a luscious combination of tender chicken smothered in a creamy, flavorful sauce made from simple ingredients that come together beautifully in the slow cooker. The angel hair pasta adds a delicate texture that perfectly balances the richness of the sauce, making this dish an instant family favorite. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or looking for a new go-to meal, this recipe brings warmth and ease to your table with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Recipe plays a crucial role, from adding creamy depth to infusing bright Italian flavors that make this dish so irresistible. These simple staples transform humble chicken breasts into something truly special and satisfying.
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast: The star protein that becomes incredibly tender after slow cooking, soaking up all the rich flavors.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): Brings creamy richness that adds a velvety texture to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup butter (softened): Adds indulgent smoothness and enhances the flavor of the creamy base.
- 1 (10 ounce) can cream of chicken soup: Your comforting thickener that blends perfectly in the sauce.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Offers a punch of aromatic flavor that complements the savory chicken beautifully.
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth: Keeps the sauce moist and flavorful while cooking low and slow.
- 1 package dry Italian dressing mix: The secret seasoning blend that infuses herbs and tang into every bite.
- 10 oz angel hair pasta (cooked and drained): Light and delicate pasta that carries the luscious sauce perfectly.
How to Make Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chicken Base
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts right at the bottom of your slow cooker. This setup ensures they cook evenly and soak up the flavors that will be poured over them. This simple step is the foundation for that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all crave.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese, butter, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and the dry Italian dressing mix. This mixture is the heart of your Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Recipe, packing a balanced creamy, savory, and herbaceous flavor that will make your kitchen smell amazing and your taste buds sing.
Step 3: Combine and Slow Cook
Pour this luscious cream cheese mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and set your cooker to low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours. The long, slow cooking time is what transforms the chicken from ordinary to extraordinary, tenderizing it perfectly while melding all those wonderful flavors together.
Step 4: Prepare the Pasta
While the chicken is working its magic, cook your angel hair pasta according to the package instructions. The delicate strands will be the perfect base for scooping up every drop of that creamy sauce.
Step 5: Shred and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked through and irresistibly tender, shred it directly in the slow cooker using two forks. This step is so satisfying because the chicken soaks up even more of the sauce as it shreds. Then simply serve the creamy chicken mixture piled on top of your cooked angel hair pasta for a complete meal bursting with flavor.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil to bring a fresh, vibrant pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness. A little grated Parmesan on top also adds a salty, nutty note that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed green beans for a bit of crunch and freshness that balances the richness of the chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the shredded chicken in small ramekins or hollowed-out mini bell peppers for an elegant appetizer look. You can also layer the chicken and pasta in a casserole dish, top with mozzarella, and broil it for a few minutes for a melty, golden finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting, making leftovers just as enjoyable as when freshly made.
Freezing
You can freeze the shredded chicken mixture separately or combined with pasta. Use freezer-safe containers or bags and label them accordingly. It will keep well for up to 3 months, perfect for quick future meals.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess and prevent drying out. Adding a splash of chicken broth or milk can help revive the sauce’s luscious texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Recipe and offer a slightly richer flavor and extra tenderness. Just adjust the cooking time if needed, as thighs can cook a bit faster than breasts.
Is it possible to make this recipe without the cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can substitute with homemade cream sauce or a combination of heavy cream and chicken broth with extra seasonings. However, the canned soup adds ease and a classic flavor that’s hard to beat for convenience.
Can I prepare this dish in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe for an Instant Pot by using the sauté function to combine ingredients and then cooking on high pressure for about 15 minutes, followed by a natural release. Be sure to adjust liquids slightly if needed.
What pasta can I use if I don’t have angel hair?
Feel free to substitute with thin spaghetti, linguine, or even fettuccine. Angel hair pasta is preferred because of its delicate texture, but other pasta shapes that hold sauce well will also be delicious.
How can I make this dish lighter?
Using low-fat cream cheese and butter substitutes can reduce calories while keeping the creamy texture. Additionally, serving smaller portions over pasta and adding more steamed veggies on the side will help balance the richness.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Recipe is truly a labor-saving, flavor-packed crowd-pleaser that you’ll find yourself turning to again and again. With minimal prep, maximum comfort, and that incredible creamy sauce, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Give it a try soon — your taste buds and schedule will thank you!
Print
Slow Cooker Angel Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (high) or 6 hours 15 minutes (low)
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Slow Cooker Angel Chicken is a creamy, comforting meal featuring tender shredded chicken cooked in a rich sauce of cream cheese, butter, cream of chicken soup, garlic, and Italian dressing mix. Served over delicate angel hair pasta, this easy slow cooker recipe is perfect for a hands-off dinner that feels indulgent and satisfying.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
Sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 (10 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth
- 1 package dry Italian dressing mix
Pasta
- 10 oz angel hair pasta, cooked and drained
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker, creating an even layer for cooking.
- Make the sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, softened butter, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and dry Italian dressing mix. Whisk thoroughly or use an electric hand mixer to blend until smooth and well combined.
- Combine and cook: Pour the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring all pieces are covered by the sauce.
- Cook the chicken: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and infused with the flavorful sauce.
- Prepare the pasta: While the chicken cooks, cook the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions, then drain well.
- Shred and serve: Once chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat it evenly in the sauce. Serve the shredded chicken mixture over the cooked angel hair pasta.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly or cook the sauce uncovered for the last 30 minutes to evaporate some liquid.
- Use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced for a more robust garlic flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- For a lighter version, substitute the cream cheese and butter with reduced-fat alternatives.
- This dish is great for meal prep; just prepare the sauce and chicken in advance and cook when ready.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (high) or 6 hours (low)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
