Ingredients

1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large 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 (low or no sodium recommended)

3 cloves garlic, minced

¾ cup chicken broth (low or no sodium recommended)

1 (0.7 ounce) packet Good Seasons Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix (or favorite mix)

16 ounce box angel hair pasta

Chopped fresh parsley, cracked pepper, and/or grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil and swirl to coat the pan. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Once the pan is hot, sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from heat.

Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.

Step 4: Add cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and Italian salad dressing mix to the bowl. Whisk until well combined.

Step 5: Spray the inside of a crock pot with non-stick cooking spray. Place the seared chicken breasts in the bottom.

Step 6: Pour the soup mixture over the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the chicken reaches 165°F internally. For more tender chicken that may fall apart, cook longer, but always rely on temperature to determine doneness.

Step 7: Shortly before serving, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.

Step 8: Serve the chicken whole or shredded. Toss pasta with the sauce or spoon chicken and sauce over pasta for each portion.

Step 9: Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, cracked pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips & Variations

Use low or no sodium broth and soup to control saltiness, especially if sensitive to salt.

Shred the chicken for easier serving or leave it whole for a more elegant presentation.

Try substituting the Italian dressing mix with a blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and parsley for a homemade touch.

Adding vegetables like mushrooms or spinach in the last hour of cooking can add extra flavor and nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used. They may require a slightly longer cooking time but will result in even more tender and flavorful meat.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before slow cooking?

Searing adds a golden brown color and deeper flavor, but it is optional. You can skip this step for convenience, though the flavor might be slightly less rich.