Crockpot Angel Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 packet Italian dressing mix
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed golden mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1 pound angel hair pasta
Instructions:
- Prepare Chicken: Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Make Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the Italian dressing mix, golden mushroom soup, chicken broth, and cream cheese.
- Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Cook Chicken: Pour the sauce over the chicken in the crockpot.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Cook Pasta: Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions. Drain well.
- Serve: Serve the chicken and sauce over the cooked angel hair pasta.
20 Most Popular Questions and Answers
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
- Yes, but adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- Can I substitute the golden mushroom soup?
- You can use cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup if you prefer.
- Can I use another type of pasta?
- Yes, spaghetti, fettuccine, or any other pasta type can be used.
- Is there a dairy-free option for cream cheese?
- Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese or a thick coconut cream as a substitute.
- Can I add vegetables?
- Yes, adding mushrooms, spinach, or peas can enhance the dish.
- What if I don’t have Italian dressing mix?
- Make your own by combining dried herbs such as oregano, basil, parsley, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
- Yes, low-fat cream cheese works, but the sauce may be slightly less creamy.
- How do I thicken the sauce?
- If the sauce is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and add it to the crockpot. Cook for another 15-20 minutes until thickened.
- Can I use chicken thighs instead?
- Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze this dish?
- Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce. Reheat and serve over freshly cooked pasta.
- Can I use fresh mushrooms?
- Yes, sauté fresh mushrooms and add them to the sauce for more texture and flavor.
- What should I serve on the side?
- Serve with a green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
- How do I make it spicier?
- Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Can I cook on high?
- Yes, cook on high for 2-3 hours, but monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
- What type of cream cheese is best?
- Full-fat cream cheese gives the best creamy texture, but low-fat can be used for a lighter version.
- How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
- Ensure the sauce ingredients are well-blended and cooked on low heat to prevent curdling.
- Can I use a different type of broth?
- Yes, vegetable broth or beef broth can be used for a different flavor profile.
- Can I add wine to the sauce?
- Yes, adding a splash of white wine to the sauce can enhance the flavor.
- Can I double the recipe?
- Yes, but make sure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the increased volume. Adjust cooking times if necessary.
By following these tips and answers, you’ll be able to perfect your Crockpot Angel Chicken and cater to various preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy your meal!
Secrets and Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Angel Chicken
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the chicken, are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with a bit of salt and pepper before placing them in the crockpot to enhance flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Sear the chicken breasts in a hot pan for a few minutes on each side before adding them to the crockpot. This adds depth of flavor and helps retain moisture.
- Soften Cream Cheese: Soften the cream cheese to room temperature before mixing it into the sauce to ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
- Mix Sauce Ingredients Well: Whisk the sauce ingredients thoroughly in the saucepan to ensure a consistent, smooth mixture without lumps.
- Use High-Quality Butter: Use real butter, not margarine, for a richer flavor.
- Opt for Low-Sodium Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish and adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Avoid Overcooking: Cook on low to prevent overcooking and drying out the chicken. Check for doneness at the 4-hour mark.
- Check for Tenderness: Ensure the chicken is fork-tender before serving. If it isn’t tender enough, cook for an additional 30 minutes to an hour.
- Stir Sauce Occasionally: If possible, stir the sauce halfway through cooking to prevent it from sticking to the crockpot and to blend the flavors better.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme towards the end of cooking for a fresh, vibrant flavor.
- Deglaze the Pan: After melting the butter and mixing the sauce, deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth to incorporate any browned bits for extra flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth. If too thin, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to thicken.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the dish immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor.
- Garnish with Fresh Parsley: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Add a Squeeze of Lemon: Just before serving, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Use Angel Hair Pasta: Cook the angel hair pasta al dente and toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Season the Pasta: Lightly season the cooked pasta with salt and a bit of Parmesan cheese before serving with the chicken and sauce.
- Make it Ahead: Prepare the sauce the night before and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just pour it over the chicken and start the crockpot.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Crockpot Angel Chicken is flavorful, tender, and perfectly cooked every time. Enjoy your delicious meal!