Ingredients
For the Chicken and Sauce
- 1-2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large chicken breasts)
- 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
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- 1 (0.7 ounce) packet Good Seasons Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix
For Serving
- 16 ounce box angel hair pasta
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Cracked black pepper (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: When the skillet is hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then remove from heat.
- Make the Sauce Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth.
- Add Soup and Seasonings: To the bowl, add cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and Italian salad dressing mix. Whisk everything until fully combined.
- Prepare Crock Pot: Spray the inside of the crock pot with non-stick cooking spray. Place the seared chicken breasts at the bottom.
- Cook the Chicken: Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Cooking longer will make the chicken more tender and allow it to fall apart if desired.
- Cook Pasta: Just before serving, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
- Serve: Serve the chicken breasts whole or shredded. You may toss the pasta directly in the sauce or plate the pasta and spoon chicken and sauce on top.
- Garnish (Optional): Add chopped fresh parsley, cracked black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F for safety.
- Cooking times may vary based on crock pot brand and chicken breast size.
- For a creamier texture, shred the chicken after cooking and mix with the sauce before serving.
- If you prefer, substitute vegetable oil with olive oil for a healthier option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The recipe can be doubled to feed a larger crowd but use a larger crock pot.
- Using fresh garlic instead of pre-minced yields better flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American