crockpot angel chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 1/2 cup homemade ranch seasoning)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for browning the chicken before cooking)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken (Optional)

• Brown the Chicken (Optional):
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. This step adds extra flavor, but it’s optional since the chicken will cook through in the crockpot.

Step 2: Assemble in the Crockpot

1. Place Chicken in the Crockpot:
   • If you skipped browning, just place the raw chicken breasts directly into the bottom of your crockpot.
2. Add the Cream Cheese:
   • Place the softened cream cheese on top of the chicken. You can cut it into chunks to help it melt more evenly.
3. Add the Seasonings:
   • Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme (if using), and pepper over the chicken and cream cheese.
4. Add Chicken Broth:
   • Pour the chicken broth (or water) around the edges of the chicken.

Step 3: Cook

1. Set the Crockpot:
   • Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and easily shreds with a fork.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

1. Shred the Chicken:
   • Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot and stir it into the creamy sauce to combine everything.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve:
   • Serve the Crockpot Angel Chicken over rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips:

• Add Veggies: You can stir in some vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: Add a bit of crushed red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! You can make extra and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

This Crockpot Angel Chicken is super creamy, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting dinner that requires minimal effort! Enjoy!