If you’re looking for a hearty dinner that practically makes itself but feels downright indulgent, Crock Pot Angel Chicken was made for you! This delightful classic brings together tender chicken breasts in a dreamy, creamy sauce with notes of garlic, Italian herbs, and a hint of buttery richness. Piled high over delicate strands of angel hair pasta, every bite delivers cozy comfort and crowd-pleasing flavor. From laid-back family nights to casual get-togethers, there’s just something magical about a dish that’s both easy and exciting. Once Crock Pot Angel Chicken lands on your table, don’t be surprised if it’s suddenly everyone’s favorite.

Crock Pot Angel Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about this recipe is just how simple yet thoughtfully selected each ingredient is. Every component plays an important role, from adding creaminess to offering depth of flavor, so nothing here is just filler. Here’s what you’ll need to make Crock Pot Angel Chicken truly shine:

Vegetable oil: Helps brown the chicken beautifully for a crisp texture and extra flavor before it hits the slow cooker.
Salt and pepper: Give the chicken a well-seasoned base that helps balance the richness of the sauce.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein—these soak up all the saucy goodness and stay juicy from slow cooking.
Cream cheese (softened): Adds creaminess and a subtle tang that makes the sauce luxurious.
Unsalted butter (softened): Delivers richness and a silky finish to the sauce without overwhelming the other flavors.
Cream of chicken soup: Provides the backbone of the sauce, creating a savory, comforting base.
Garlic (minced): Packs a punch of flavor, infusing the dish with aromatic warmth.
Chicken broth: Loosens the sauce just enough, allowing it to coat the chicken and pasta perfectly—opt for low or no sodium if desired.
Dry Italian salad dressing mix: The secret weapon for instant herby brightness and zest, making the dish sing.
Angel hair pasta: Its fine strands grab the sauce and create that “angelic” melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Chopped fresh parsley, cracked pepper, and Parmesan (optional): These are the perfect finishing touches for color and pops of fresh flavor.

How to Make Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start things off by getting your skillet nice and hot over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and swirl it around until it shimmers. Generously season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper, then lay them in the skillet. Sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes until you get lovely golden edges—this step locks in juices and makes sure every bite of Crock Pot Angel Chicken is deeply flavorful. Don’t worry about cooking the chicken through now; the slow cooker will handle that magic.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and butter until they’re velvety smooth. Add in the cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and dry Italian salad dressing mix. Whisk again until everything is fully combined into a decadent, pourable sauce. This luscious blend is what will infuse the chicken with flavor as it gently cooks and softens.

Step 3: Layer and Start Cooking

Give your crock pot a quick spritz of non-stick cooking spray for easy cleanup. Arrange the browned chicken breasts in a single layer along the bottom, then pour your prepared sauce evenly over the top. Pop on the lid and set your crock pot to low. Let everything cook together for 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken is fall-apart tender and registers 165°F internally. Longer cook times will make the chicken even more tender, but be mindful not to overdo it unless you’re after that “shredded” effect!

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

When dinnertime is right around the corner, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the angel hair pasta as directed on the package—al dente is perfect. Drain the pasta and get ready for the assembly!

Step 5: Serve It Up

Now comes the fun part. You can serve the chicken breasts whole and spoon the creamy sauce over a bed of pasta, or go for extra comfort by shredding the chicken right in the crock pot and tossing it with the noodles. Either way, you end up with Crock Pot Angel Chicken that’s outrageously rich, saucy, and ready to serve to eagerly awaiting plates.

How to Serve Crock Pot Angel Chicken

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of finishing touches! Sprinkle your Crock Pot Angel Chicken with a pop of fresh parsley, a grinding of black pepper, and a generous snowfall of grated Parmesan. Not only does this add color and visual appeal, but it also layers in fresh, savory notes that balance the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This beloved chicken and pasta combo needs little else, but consider rounding out your meal with a crisp green salad dressed simply, or a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. A warm slice of garlic bread will be a hit for anyone wanting to mop up that extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful, serve the Crock Pot Angel Chicken in pasta bowls and top with lemon zest for brightness, or ladle the saucy chicken over mashed potatoes instead of pasta for an unexpected twist. Leftover sauce also makes an amazing filling for baked potatoes or as a creamy topper for steamed veggies.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Crock Pot Angel Chicken and sauce into airtight containers and refrigerate. The flavors will actually deepen overnight, and it will stay delicious for up to three days. Store pasta separately to help prevent it from soaking up all the sauce.

Freezing

Want to save some for a busy day? Let the chicken and sauce cool completely before freezing in airtight containers (again, pasta should be stored separately). It will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat Crock Pot Angel Chicken on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if the sauce needs smoothing out. For single servings, the microwave works well—just cover and stir halfway through. Toss freshly cooked pasta with the warm sauce before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in Crock Pot Angel Chicken, offering even more juiciness and flavor. Just trim any excess fat before adding them to the recipe.

Is it possible to use a different pasta shape?

Of course! While angel hair has that signature light texture, feel free to swap in spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne if that’s what you have on hand. Just watch the cooking time so you don’t overcook the noodles.

How can I make it gluten free?

For a gluten-free Crock Pot Angel Chicken, use your favorite gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free brand of cream of chicken soup and Italian dressing mix. Check ingredient labels carefully to make sure your sauce is safe for everyone at the table.

Can I prep this in advance?

Definitely! You can sear the chicken, whisk up the sauce, and refrigerate both components separately the night before. In the morning, just assemble them in the slow cooker and start cooking—easy and efficient!

What’s the best way to shred the chicken?

If you want ultra-tender pulled chicken, simply use two forks to shred it right in the crock pot before stirring back into the sauce. For chunkier pieces, cut the cooked chicken into slices or large pieces before layering over the pasta.

Final Thoughts

I can’t say it enough: Crock Pot Angel Chicken is the ultimate comfort food staple you’ll turn to again and again. It checks every box for a dreamy weeknight meal—easy to make, full of flavor, and endlessly customizable for your crew. Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try; you’re about to discover why it’s such a beloved favorite!