If you’re looking for a comforting, luscious meal that’s both elegant and effortless, the Angel Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce over Angel Hair Pasta Recipe is an absolute must-try. Tender, juicy chicken breasts bathed in a dreamy, cheesy sauce, paired with delicate angel hair pasta, come together to create a dish that feels special yet is surprisingly simple to prepare. This recipe is a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that will quickly become a favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Angel Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce over Angel Hair Pasta Recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the richness of cream cheese and butter to the bright kick from Italian seasoning, every component adds a distinct layer of flavor and texture that builds this dish’s irresistible charm.
- Olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to a golden-brown exterior and locking in moisture.
- Chicken breasts (3, about 1 ½ pounds): The star protein that becomes tender and flavorful as it simmers in the sauce.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and the sauce.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a gentle warmth and depth to the dish.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Provides a silky, tangy base for the Parmesan sauce.
- Butter (2 tablespoons, softened): Enriches the sauce with a creamy, smooth finish.
- Chicken broth (½ cup): Brings savory depth, balancing the richness of the dairy.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Adds pungent aroma and flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Italian dressing seasoning packet (about 2 tablespoons): Infuses herbs and spices for a fresh, zesty kick.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): Intensifies the sauce’s creaminess for that luxurious mouthfeel.
- Cornstarch (2 teaspoons): Acts as a thickening agent, giving the sauce a velvety consistency.
- Angel hair pasta (16 ounces): Delicate and light, it’s the perfect canvas for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Fresh Italian parsley (chopped, for garnish): Adds brightness and a pop of green color for visual appeal.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish): Delivers an extra savory, cheesy finish to the dish.
How to Make Angel Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce over Angel Hair Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts evenly with salt and black pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until it develops a beautiful golden crust. The goal here is to lock in the juices and create flavor, not to cook the chicken through at this point. Once seared, set the chicken aside and get ready for the next step.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese, butter, chicken broth, minced garlic, and the Italian dressing seasoning packet until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This mixture will form the base of your delicious Parmesan sauce, marrying tanginess with herbal notes and a garlicky punch.
Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Place the seared chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker, ensuring they lay flat for even cooking. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the chicken evenly, covering each piece with that indulgent sauce. The slow cooker will work its magic here, transforming the chicken and sauce over the next few hours.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4 to 5 hours or switch to high heat for 2 to 3 hours, depending on your schedule. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). By cooking low and slow, the chicken absorbs all those fantastic flavors while remaining juicy and tender.
Step 5: Remove Chicken and Thicken Sauce
Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts and set them aside. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker, combining it with the cooking liquid to create a luscious, creamy sauce. Return the chicken breasts to the slow cooker, cover, and let it cook on high for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This step is essential for thickening the sauce to that perfect consistency.
Step 6: Cook the Angel Hair Pasta
While the sauce is thickening, prepare your angel hair pasta. Boil salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually just a couple of minutes until tender. Drain well but don’t rinse, so the pasta retains the surface starches that help the sauce cling beautifully.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Dish out the angel hair pasta onto plates or a grand serving platter, then nestle the tender chicken breasts on top. Spoon generous amounts of the creamy Parmesan sauce over everything, making sure that golden, garlicky goodness saturates every bite. Garnish as you like with freshly chopped Italian parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to complete the dish.
How to Serve Angel Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce over Angel Hair Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten and elevate this dish, fresh Italian parsley is a wonderful choice. Its herbal freshness adds contrast and makes the dish more visually appealing. A dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese crowns the sauce with an extra depth of savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture.
Side Dishes
Angel Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce over Angel Hair Pasta Recipe is rich and filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp salad—think arugula with lemon vinaigrette—or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli adds a lovely balance and texture variety. A crusty artisan bread is also perfect for sopping up every last drop of that incredible sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the chicken sliced crosswise on a warmed platter layered with pasta underneath, drizzled lavishly with sauce, and sprinkled with herbs and Parmesan. Alternatively, try plating each chicken breast atop individual pasta nests, garnishing elegantly with microgreens or edible flowers to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen after resting, making the dish even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes well without compromising flavor or texture. Pack the chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep the pasta separate if possible to avoid it becoming mushy upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge and warm them gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to evenly heat the sauce. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will become extra juicy and tender, and their richer flavor complements the creamy Parmesan sauce beautifully. Just adjust cooking times slightly if using bone-in thighs.
Is it possible to make this without a slow cooker?
Yes! You can make the dish on the stovetop by simmering the chicken gently in the cream cheese mixture over low heat until cooked through, then thickening the sauce as described.
Can I substitute the angel hair pasta for another type?
Definitely. Thin spaghetti or capellini work well as substitutes. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions to maintain the delicate texture.
Is the sauce gluten-free?
The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free if your Italian seasoning packet and broth do not contain gluten. Always check labels to be sure! Cornstarch is a great gluten-free thickener used in this recipe.
How spicy is this recipe?
This Angel Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce over Angel Hair Pasta Recipe is not spicy; it leans more on savory, creamy, and herbaceous flavors. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or while searing the chicken if you desire a bit of heat.
Final Thoughts
This Angel Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce over Angel Hair Pasta Recipe is a true comfort food winner that feels elevated enough for company yet relaxed enough for busy weeknights. Its creamy, garlicky sauce and tender chicken nestled atop delicate pasta are sure to become a beloved classic in your home. Give it a try and savor every delicious bite—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Angel Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce over Angel Hair Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Angel Chicken is a creamy, comforting slow-cooked dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a luscious cream cheese and Italian seasoning sauce, served over delicate angel hair pasta and garnished with fresh Italian parsley and Parmesan cheese. This recipe combines simple ingredients with a long, slow cook to yield a rich and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 3 chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 Tablespoons butter (softened)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 0.6 ounce Italian dressing seasoning packet (about 2 tablespoons)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
For the Pasta and Garnish:
- 16 ounces angel hair pasta
- Fresh Italian parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season and Sear Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown but not fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, butter, chicken broth, minced garlic, and Italian dressing seasoning packet until smooth and well combined.
- Place Chicken in Slow Cooker: Lay the seared chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the prepared cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Slow Cook Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), indicating it is fully cooked.
- Remove Chicken: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and set aside on a plate.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch until smooth and fully combined. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker with the cooking liquid to thicken the sauce.
- Cook Sauce and Return Chicken: Place the chicken breasts back into the slow cooker, cover, and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
- Cook Pasta: While the sauce thickens, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the angel hair pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
- Serve: Plate the angel hair pasta, place the chicken breasts on top, and generously spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken and pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped Italian parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For best flavor, sear the chicken just until golden to lock in juices before slow cooking.
- Use a food thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little additional chicken broth or cream to reach desired consistency.
- Leftover chicken and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can substitute Italian dressing seasoning with a mix of dried Italian herbs if needed.
- Angel hair pasta cooks quickly; watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
