This Slow Cooker Angel Chicken is a dream come true for busy days. With tender chicken cooked in a creamy sauce, it’s both comforting and super easy to make!
Honestly, the smell while it cooks is so tempting, you might find yourself sneaking a taste before dinner. I know I do! Serve it over rice or pasta for a cozy meal that feels special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook down nicely. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken thighs work well too, and add a touch more flavor.
Italian Dressing Mix: This mix gives a great punch of flavor. If you prefer homemade, simply combine dried herbs like oregano, basil, and garlic powder. This is also perfect for those avoiding preservatives.
Cream of Chicken Soup: If you’d like a healthier choice, you can use low-fat cream of chicken soup or even a homemade version made with chicken broth and flour. This also makes it suitable for those watching their sodium intake.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds creaminess. If you want a lighter version, use Neufchâtel cheese or plain Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor while reducing fat.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances the dish’s flavor. In a pinch, you can skip it or use any hard cheese you have at home, like Pecorino Romano.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Tender and Flavorful?
Cooking chicken in a slow cooker makes it incredibly tender. However, here are some tips to get it just right:
- Layer the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker, ensuring it’s flat for even cooking.
- Mix your sauce ingredients well to make sure every piece of chicken is coated with flavor.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours for maximum tenderness or on high for 3-4 hours if you’re short on time.
- After cooking, use two forks to shred chicken gently, allowing it to absorb the sauce while mixing.
This technique will give you juicy, flavorful chicken that pairs beautifully with the pasta!
How to Make Slow Cooker Angel Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry Italian dressing mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 brick (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
For the Garnish:
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 1 pound spaghetti or angel hair pasta
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious Slow Cooker Angel Chicken will take you about 15 minutes to prep and then you can let it cook for 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high in your slow cooker. After cooking, a few quick steps will have your meal ready to serve. It’s a perfect set-it-and-forget-it dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they are arranged evenly for the best cooking result.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the dry Italian dressing mix, cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, and chicken broth. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy. This will create a delicious sauce for your chicken!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook. If you’re in a hurry, use the high setting for 3–4 hours. If you have some time, the low setting for 6–8 hours will yield even tastier results. The chicken should be cooked through and easily shred with a fork when done.
4. Shred and Season:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully shred it using two forks and mix it well with the creamy sauce in the slow cooker. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and add salt and pepper to taste. This will enhance all those wonderful flavors!
5. Cook the Pasta:
While the chicken is finishing up, cook the spaghetti or angel hair pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for serving.
6. Serve and Garnish:
To serve, place a generous portion of the creamy chicken mixture over the cooked pasta. Top with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Angel Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to add an extra hour if cooking on low, or 30-45 minutes if cooking on high, to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked through. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with an equal amount of homemade cream sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup. For a lower-calorie option, consider using a mixture of Greek yogurt and chicken broth for creaminess without the added calories.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Slow Cooker Angel Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems too thick.
Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
Absolutely! If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add more crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce before cooking. Alternatively, you can mix in a dash of hot sauce or even chopped jalapeños for an extra kick!
