
Crock Pot Angel Chicken brings together tender chicken breasts in a rich creamy Italian-style sauce for a comforting meal that cooks low and slow in your crock pot This is the kind of recipe you can count on when you want dinner to feel special but stress free Just before serving everything is ladled over a bed of delicate angel hair pasta for a craveable home-cooked favorite
The first time I made this my family hovered around the crock pot all evening The aroma drew everyone to the kitchen before the pasta was even in the water
Ingredients
- Vegetable oil: Helps get a golden sear on the chicken and prevents sticking Choose a neutral high smoke point oil
- Salt and pepper: Seasoning the chicken before browning brings out its flavor Taste as you go to avoid over salting
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Look for plump moist pieces about the same size so they cook evenly
- Cream cheese: Softened to room temperature for a creamy rich sauce Use full fat for best texture
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter blends smoothly into the sauce and adds depth Opt for high-quality real butter
- Cream of chicken soup: This classic shortcut adds richness and body Choose the low sodium version if preferred
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings an Italian note Seek out firm cloves without green shoots
- Chicken broth: Quality low sodium broth ensures full flavor in the sauce while giving control over saltiness
- Good Seasons Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix: The seasoning packet punches up the savory tang in the sauce
- Angel hair pasta: Delicate and light perfect under creamy chicken Choose a trusted brand for better texture
- Chopped parsley cracked black pepper Parmesan cheese: Optional for freshness bite and finishing touch Only add fresh parsley just before serving for color
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sear the Chicken:
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper Heat the vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet over medium high Once the oil shimmers add the chicken Let each side cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until golden Transfer the seared chicken to a plate set aside This step ensures the chicken keeps its moisture and develops flavor
- Blend the Creamy Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl add softened cream cheese and butter Whisk slowly and steadily until smooth and no lumps remain Add the cream of chicken soup minced garlic chicken broth and Italian dressing mix Continue whisking until everything becomes one uniform sauce mixture Small bubbles may form from the whisking that is fine
- Layer in the Crock Pot:
- Spray the inside of your crock pot with nonstick spray Arrange the seared chicken breasts in a single even layer at the bottom Pour the creamy sauce over the top making sure all chicken pieces are covered With a spoon gently nudge any bare edges under the sauce
- Slow Cook the Chicken:
- Cover and set the crock pot to low Cook for 2 and a half to 3 hours The chicken should reach 165 degrees internal temperature Test the thickest section with a meat thermometer Pierce the center and check Do not overcook as slow cookers vary Watch closely near the end
- Cook the Angel Hair Pasta:
- 15 minutes before serving bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Add the angel hair pasta Give it a gentle stir so it does not stick Cook until just tender then drain quickly Reserve a cup of pasta water in case you want to thin the sauce later
- Serve and Finish:
- Decide if you want whole chicken breasts or shredded Use two forks to shred the chicken in the pot if you like Toss cooked angel hair into the creamy sauce or portion the sauce and chicken atop the pasta on each plate Finish with parsley cracked pepper or Parmesan Enjoy piping hot

I am partial to the Italian dressing mix It transforms the sauce from simple to crave worthy Every time I prepare this my son asks where the magical flavor comes from and grins when I hand him the packet
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days For best results store the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave stirring in a bit of milk or broth if the sauce thickens
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you want even more juiciness For the soup base use cream of mushroom or cream of celery as an alternative Neufchatel cheese can replace cream cheese for a lighter feel
Serving Suggestions
You can add roasted broccoli sauteed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce just before serving Use fettuccine or pappardelle for a heartier variation Sliced sun dried tomatoes or olives bring extra flavor and color
Cultural and Historical Context
Angel chicken gets its name from angel hair pasta and the light tender feeling of the finished dish While its flavors have Italian influence it became popular in American kitchens as a simple comforting slow cooker meal perfect for weeknights and potlucks

Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute angel hair with fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne. Adjust the cooking time as needed for your pasta type.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness before serving.
- → What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Softened mascarpone or Neufchâtel cheese can be good substitutes if you prefer a lighter or slightly different flavor profile.
- → Is it possible to prepare this without a crock pot?
You can cook the chicken and sauce on the stovetop or in the oven. Adjust the cook time; simmer gently until the chicken is tender.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce a day ahead. Reheat gently before serving and cook pasta fresh for best texture.