Slow Cooker Angel Chicken: A Comforting Delight
Angel chicken is a wonderful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with cream of mushroom soup and delicate angel hair pasta, all brought together with Italian seasoning. This dinner is comforting on every level and is the perfect meal to complement a cold winter night.
Introduction
I remember the first time I made this recipe for my family. I was hesitant about using the Italian dressing mix, but it ended up adding the perfect amount of flavor to the dish. The slow cooker made it so convenient, as I was able to prep everything in the morning before work and come home to a fully cooked and delicious meal. It’s become a staple in our household, and I always get requests to make it whenever we have company over.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 16 oz (450g) angel hair pasta
- 1/2 cup (112g) butter, melted
- 1.5 oz (42g) dry Italian seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup (112ml) white wine
- 1/2 cup (112ml) chicken broth
- 6 oz (170g) cream cheese
- 2 cans (10.75 oz/300g each) cream of mushroom soup
Preparation and Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
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Grease the Slow Cooker:
Lightly grease the bottom of your slow cooker to prevent sticking. -
Place the Chicken:
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the bottom of the slow cooker.
Making the Sauce
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Mix the Ingredients:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the melted butter, dry Italian seasoning mix, white wine, chicken broth, cream cheese, and cream of mushroom soup. Mix until well blended. -
Pour the Sauce:
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring they are well covered.
Cooking
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Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low. Cook for 6 hours until the chicken is tender and the flavors are well combined.
Preparing the Pasta
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Cook the Pasta:
About 30 minutes before serving, boil the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta well. -
Combine Pasta and Chicken:
Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker. Stir to mix the pasta thoroughly with the sauce and shredded chicken. -
Final Touch:
Let the pasta sit in the sauce for about 10 minutes before serving to absorb the flavors.
Tips for the Perfect Angel Chicken
- Shredding the Chicken: We love to shred the chicken with a fork before mixing the pasta in. This will ensure that you get a bite of mouth-watering shredded chicken with each bite.
- Adjusting the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of chicken broth or let the sauce simmer with the lid slightly open towards the end of the cooking time.
- Wine Substitute: If you don’t want to use white wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of additional chicken broth or apple juice for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking for added texture and nutrition.
FAQs
Can I Make Angel Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply place everything in the slow cooker and start cooking.
Can I Freeze Leftover Angel Chicken?
Absolutely! Let the dish cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Angel Chicken?
Angel chicken is a hearty dish that pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
Can I Use a Different Pasta?
While angel hair pasta is traditional, you can use other types like spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How Can I Thicken the Sauce if It’s Too Thin?
If your sauce ends up too thin, you can thicken it by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to make a slurry. Stir this mixture into the sauce and let it cook on high for a few minutes until thickened.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Angel Chicken is a delicious and convenient dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Its combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and delicate pasta makes it a favorite in many households. With these detailed instructions and helpful tips, you can create a perfect angel chicken meal that’s sure to impress your family and guests. Enjoy the simplicity and rich flavors of this delightful recipe, and don’t hesitate to make it your own with different ingredients and variations. Happy cooking!
