Creamy Angel Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, flavorful, and downright comforting meal, you *have* to try this Creamy Angel Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s one of those dishes I turn to when I want dinner to feel like a warm hug—rich, creamy, and full of that garlic-Italian goodness that’s impossible to resist. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll see why this recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen!

❤️

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ultra Creamy Sauce: The blend of cream cheese, butter, and cream of chicken soup creates a silky, dreamy sauce that clings to every strand of angel hair pasta.
  • Effortless Slow Cooking: The crock pot does most of the work, making tender, juicy chicken that’s bursting with flavor while you relax or prep other parts of your meal.
  • Flavor Packed: Garlic, Italian dressing mix, and buttery richness come together in perfect harmony—this isn’t your average pasta dinner.
  • Family Favorite: I’ve watched even the pickiest eaters go back for seconds, which speaks volumes about just how addictive this dish is.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together beautifully to build rich layers of flavor while keeping things surprisingly simple. I like to use fresh garlic for that punch, and I recommend picking a good quality cream cheese for the best texture.

Flat lay of boneless skinless chicken breasts, a small block of cream cheese, a few tablespoons of unsalted butter, three peeled garlic cloves, a small white bowl of cream of chicken soup, a small white bowl of chicken broth, a small white bowl with Italian dry seasoning mix, a drizzle of vegetable oil in a small white bowl, a pile of uncooked angel hair pasta nest, fresh chopped parsley sprigs, cracked black peppercorns scattered artfully, and a small mound of grated Parmesan cheese all arranged symmetrically on simple white ceramic dishes and bowls, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Creamy Angel Chicken Pasta, creamy chicken pasta, easy Italian pasta, slow cooker chicken pasta, comforting chicken pasta
  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts: I use larger breasts and sear them first to lock in juices.
  • Cream cheese: Softened to room temperature so it mixes smoothly without lumps.
  • Unsalted butter: Adds richness and lets you control the saltiness in the dish.
  • Cream of chicken soup: Low or no sodium versions work well if you’re watching your salt intake.
  • Garlic cloves: Fresh is best here—it gives a vibrant flavor that jarred can’t match.
  • Chicken broth: Use low sodium if possible; it helps balance flavors without overpowering.
  • Good Seasons Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix: This magical packet amps up the Italian vibe effortlessly.
  • Angel hair pasta: Its delicate strands soak up that creamy sauce perfectly every time.
  • Chopped fresh parsley, cracked pepper, Parmesan cheese: These optional garnishes bring freshness, a little kick, and cheesy goodness to finish the dish.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love how adaptable this Creamy Angel Chicken Pasta Recipe is. Don’t be afraid to make it your own—whether you want to lighten it up or add some extra zing, there’s a great way to do it.

  • Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese: I tried this for a tangier, lighter sauce, and it was surprisingly delicious while cutting calories.
  • Add veggies: Toss in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes during the last hour of slow cooking for color and nutrition.
  • Swap angel hair for whole wheat pasta: Gives a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, perfect for a health-conscious twist.
  • Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and double-check the soup ingredients; the flavor stays just as satisfying.

How to Make Creamy Angel Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Sear the chicken for maximum flavor

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and swirl in the vegetable oil. Season the chicken breasts well with salt and pepper—you want that savory layer to start building here. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. This quick step not only locks in moisture but also adds a beautiful crust that makes the chicken extra delicious once slow-cooked.

Step 2: Whisk your creamy sauce base

In a medium bowl, whisk the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy—no lumps! Then add cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and the Italian dressing mix. Whisk everything together until the sauce is perfectly blended. I like to taste here and adjust seasoning if needed before pouring it over the chicken.

Step 3: Slow cook to tender perfection

Spray your crock pot with non-stick spray to keep things tidy. Place the seared chicken breasts inside and pour the creamy sauce over the top. Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. Here’s the trick I learned—the longer you let it cook, the more tender it gets, but after 4 hours it might start falling apart if you like chunkier pieces. Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken hits 165°F for safe and juicy results.

Step 4: Cook the angel hair pasta

Right before serving, boil your angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente (that perfect slight bite). Drain it well—remember angel hair cooks super fast, so watch it closely to avoid mush!

Step 5: Combine and serve

You have two options here: serve the chicken breasts whole on a bed of pasta or shred the chicken right in the crock pot and toss it with pasta and sauce for an easy, comforting pile of goodness. I usually go the shredded route because my family loves that texture. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley, cracked black pepper, and a generous dusting of Parmesan for that final loving touch.

👨‍🍳

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Angel Chicken Pasta Recipe

  • Sear First: That quick sear adds so much flavor and helps the chicken retain moisture during slow cooking. Don’t skip!
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: Crock pots vary in temperature, so always check that your chicken reaches 165°F instead of relying only on time.
  • Gentle Stirring: If shredding your chicken in the crockpot, stir gently so you don’t break up the sauce too much.
  • Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook angel hair just to al dente; it will soak up sauce quickly and avoid turning mushy.

How to Serve Creamy Angel Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creamy Angel Chicken Pasta Recipe - Serving

Garnishes

I always top this pasta with chopped fresh parsley to add color and a subtle fresh note. A bit of cracked black pepper gives a nice kick that contrasts with the creaminess, and Parmesan cheese is my go-to for a cheesy, salty finish—you could even try Pecorino Romano if you want a sharper taste.

Side Dishes

For sides, I like simple green salads with a light vinaigrette or steamed green beans tossed with lemon zest for a bright contrast. Garlic bread or crusty rolls also pair perfectly to mop up every bit of that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this in individual cast iron skillets topped with an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs and Parmesan. It makes each person’s portion feel extra special and keeps the pasta warm longer on the table—definitely a crowd-pleaser!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens as it sits, so I recommend adding a splash of chicken broth when reheating to loosen it back up and keep things creamy.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! I freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta for best results. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, warm the sauce and chicken gently, then cook fresh pasta or add thawed cooked pasta.

Reheating

I usually reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a little broth or water to bring back the sauce’s smooth, creamy texture. Microwave works in a pinch, but stirring every 30 seconds helps distribute heat evenly.

FAQs

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

    Absolutely! Chicken thighs are more forgiving and stay juicy, especially when slow cooked. Just adjust cooking time slightly—thighs may cook a bit faster or slower depending on size, so keep an eye on internal temperature to hit 165°F.

  2. Is angel hair pasta the only pasta that works for this recipe?

    While angel hair is ideal because it soaks up the creamy sauce without overpowering it, you can absolutely use other types like fettuccine, linguine, or even penne. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and be sure to drain well.

  3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

    It’s a bit trickier since cream cheese and butter make the sauce so luscious, but you can try dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and vegan butter. Be mindful that textures and flavors will differ slightly, but it’s definitely doable for dairy-free diets.

  4. Do I have to shred the chicken?

    Nope! You can serve the chicken breasts whole for a more rustic presentation, or shred for a saucier, easier-to-eat version—whichever you prefer. Both ways taste amazing.

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Creamy Angel Chicken Pasta Recipe turns a handful of humble ingredients into something truly special. It’s the kind of meal that makes weeknights easier and weekends cozier. I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as my family and I do. Next time you want a fuss-free dish that feels luxurious, give this a whirl—you’ll be so glad you did!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamy Angel Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creamy Angel Chicken Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 137 reviews
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours
  • Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Crock Pot Angel Chicken is a creamy, savory chicken recipe that combines seared boneless skinless chicken breasts with a rich blend of cream cheese, butter, cream of chicken soup, garlic, and Italian dressing mix, all slow-cooked to tender perfection. Served with angel hair pasta, this comforting dish is easy to prepare, flavorful, and perfect for a satisfying family meal.


Ingredients

Chicken and Searing

  • 1-2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large chicken breasts)

Sauce Mixture

  • 4 ounces (½ block) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup (recommend low or no sodium if sensitive to salt)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¾ cup chicken broth (recommend low or no sodium if sensitive to salt)
  • 1 (0.7 ounce) packet Good Seasons Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix (or your favorite mix)

Pasta and Garnishes

  • 16 ounce box angel hair pasta
  • Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • Cracked pepper (optional)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)


Instructions

  1. Sear the Chicken: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. When the pan is hot, add the chicken and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove the chicken from heat.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Add cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and Italian salad dressing mix. Whisk until all ingredients are fully combined into a creamy sauce.
  3. Set up the Crock Pot: Spray the inside of the crock pot with non-stick cooking spray. Place the seared chicken breasts in the bottom of the pot. Pour the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
  4. Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Longer cooking will make the chicken more tender and may cause it to fall apart if desired.
  5. Cook the Pasta: Shortly before serving, prepare the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
  6. Serve: You can serve the chicken breasts whole or shred the chicken. Either toss the pasta directly in the sauce or spoon the chicken and sauce over the pasta individually. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, cracked pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked at 165°F, especially when slow cooking as crock pot temperatures can vary.
  • Using low or no sodium versions of cream of chicken soup and chicken broth is recommended if you need to control salt intake.
  • If you prefer shredded chicken, cook longer until the meat falls apart easily.
  • Spraying the crock pot with non-stick cooking spray prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (with pasta)
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

Leave a Comment & Rate this Recipe!

If you love this recipe, please consider giving it a star rating when you leave a comment. Star ratings help people discover my recipes online. Your support means a lot to me, I appreciate you.

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *