Creamy Comfort – Crockpot Angel Chicken
Creamy Comfort – Crockpot Angel Chicken : if you are looking for a comforting meal that requires minimal effort, then this is the recipe for you! Crockpot Angel Chicken is a delightful dish that is perfect for busy days. With a rich and creamy sauce, this chicken meal is not only satisfying but also easy to throw together. The best part? It cooks while you go about your day, filling your home with a delicious aroma. Get ready for a heartwarming dinner that your family will love!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crockpot Angel Chicken is a favorite for many reasons. First, it is incredibly easy to prepare. Just gather your ingredients, mix them in the crockpot, and let it do the work for you. Second, the flavors are amazing! The creamy sauce makes the chicken juicy and tender. It’s like a warm hug on a plate. Third, this dish is versatile; you can serve it with various sides to suit your family’s tastes. Finally, it makes excellent leftovers, so you can enjoy the comfort of this meal more than once.
How to Prepare Crockpot Angel Chicken
Preparing Crockpot Angel Chicken is simple. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crockpot: Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking. This will make cleanup much easier!
- Add the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Make sure to spread them out evenly.
- Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and chicken broth. Stir well until everything is well mixed and creamy.
- Pour the Sauce: Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure the chicken is fully coated with the sauce.
- Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the mixture to taste.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will be fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Shred the Chicken: Once the cooking time is up, take a fork and shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. This allows it to soak up even more of that delicious sauce.
- Serve: Stir everything together to combine and then it’s ready to serve!
How to Serve Creamy Comfort – Crockpot Angel Chicken
Crockpot Angel Chicken is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are a few suggestions:
- With Rice: Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice. The rice will absorb the creamy sauce, making each bite even more delicious.
- Over Noodles: If you love pasta, serve this dish over egg noodles or spaghetti. The sauce clings beautifully to the noodles.
- With Vegetables: Pair with steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots for a balanced meal.
- On a Bed of Greens: For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of fresh greens for a tasty salad.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
How to Store Crockpot Angel Chicken
If you have leftovers (which is likely due to how delicious this dish is), storing them is very easy:
- Refrigerate: Place the leftover chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It should be eaten within 3-4 days.
- Freeze: If you want to keep the chicken for longer, pack it into a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips for Preparing Crockpot Angel Chicken
- Use Frozen Chicken: If you forget to thaw your chicken, this recipe can still work. You can add frozen chicken breasts directly into the crockpot. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.
- Adjust the Spice: If you like a little heat, consider adding garlic powder or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
- Variety of Cream Soups: Feel free to experiment with different cream soups. Cream of mushroom or cream of celery can add a unique flavor to your chicken.
- Add Veggies: You can add vegetables like chopped bell peppers, onions, or even mushrooms right into the crockpot for a more complete meal.
Variation (If Applicable)
While this is a traditional recipe, there are many ways to customize it to fit your family’s taste:
- Italian Style: Add Italian seasonings such as oregano and basil, and serve over pasta for an Italian twist.
- BBQ Chicken: Swap the ranch seasoning for BBQ sauce for a tangy flavor. It’s perfect served on a bun as a BBQ chicken sandwich.
- Healthy Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a healthier version. It still gives a creamy texture with fewer calories.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. They will also cook up tender and flavorful.
2. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes and let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before releasing the remaining pressure.
3. What sides go well with Crockpot Angel Chicken?
Some great sides include garlic bread, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can choose based on your preferences or whatever you have on hand!
4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! You can use dairy-free cream of chicken soup or a homemade version and substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative.
5. Is it okay to double this recipe?
Yes! You can double the recipe if you have a large crockpot. Just ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed in the pot for even cooking.
Conclusion
Crockpot Angel Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth to your kitchen and your dining table. It’s easy to make, delicious, and family-friendly. Whether you are looking for a weekday meal for a busy evening or a dish to impress your guests, this chicken recipe is an excellent choice. You’re sure to enjoy it, and it may just become a staple in your home! Happy cooking!