Heavenly Slow Cooker Angel Chicken: A Creamy and Flavorful Delight
Are you looking for a hassle-free dinner that’s both delicious and comforting? Look no further than this Slow Cooker Angel Chicken recipe! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, you can enjoy tender chicken breasts bathed in a creamy and flavorful sauce that’s perfect for serving over angel hair pasta. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a satisfying meal after a long day, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this heavenly slow cooker creation!
Ingredients:
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (0.7 oz) packet Italian dressing mix
- 4 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- 4 tablespoons butter, at room temperature
- 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup white wine
- Angel hair pasta, cooked according to package directions
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker in an even layer.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Italian dressing mix, cream cheese, butter, cream of chicken soup, and white wine. Stir until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring that the chicken is evenly coated.
3. Cook the Chicken:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Serve:
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a serving platter.
- Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
- Serve the angel chicken alongside cooked angel hair pasta or your favorite side dishes.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or baby spinach to the slow cooker along with the chicken for added flavor and nutrition.
- Fresh Herbs: For a burst of freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the finished dish before serving.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for a touch of heat.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
To make a keto or low-carb version of this Slow Cooker Angel Chicken, consider the following modifications:
- Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese and ensure that the Italian dressing mix is free of added sugars or starches.
- Cream of Chicken Soup Substitute: Replace the canned cream of chicken soup with a homemade keto-friendly version made with heavy cream, chicken broth, and thickening agents like xanthan gum or almond flour.
- White Wine Substitute: Omit the white wine or replace it with chicken broth or a splash of dry white wine vinegar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe. Simply increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours if cooking on low heat, or 30 minutes if cooking on high heat.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy sauce mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: While angel hair pasta complements the creamy chicken sauce beautifully, you can certainly use any pasta variety you prefer, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne.
With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and tender chicken, this Slow Cooker Angel Chicken is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a casual gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress with its simplicity and deliciousness. So dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a heavenly meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!