Ingredients

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 (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)

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 bottom. Season both sides of chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

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

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

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

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

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. Cooking longer tenderizes the chicken further, but it may start to fall apart.

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

Step 8: Serve the chicken whole or shredded. You can toss the pasta directly in the sauce or spoon the chicken and sauce over the pasta for each serving.

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

Tips & Variations

Use low or no sodium chicken broth and soup if you prefer a less salty dish.

Sear the chicken breasts well to develop extra flavor in the sauce.

For a creamier texture, shred the chicken in the sauce once cooked and stir well before serving.

Try swapping angel hair pasta for rice or mashed potatoes for different serving options.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking and accurate timing. If using frozen, increase cooking time and always verify the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Is it possible to make this recipe without cream cheese?

Cream cheese adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. You can substitute with sour cream or Greek yogurt, but the texture and flavor will vary slightly.