Discover the Comfort of Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the allure of Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo. This one-pot wonder combines tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and creamy orzo pasta for a meal that’s sure to warm your soul and satisfy your tastebuds. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast, this slow cooker recipe is a true crowd-pleaser.

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The Benefits of Slow Cooking

Slow cookers are the unsung heroes of the kitchen, transforming humble ingredients into mouthwatering masterpieces with minimal effort. By simmering your ingredients low and slow, you unlock a depth of flavor that simply can’t be replicated with other cooking methods. Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo is the perfect showcase for the power of slow cooking, allowing the chicken to become fall-apart tender while the orzo soaks up all the delicious juices.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo

To create this comforting dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that work together seamlessly:

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs (about 680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (or a mix)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (optional, for searing)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed slightly
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of warmth)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste (start with ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper)

For the Orzo:

• 1½ cups uncooked orzo pasta
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

Preparing the Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo

Prepare the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. If you’d like to get a nice sear on the chicken, heat a bit of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned. Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker.

Add the Aromatics & Broth

In the slow cooker, add the diced onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, dried thyme, dried oregano, crushed rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together to combine the flavors.

Slow Cook the Chicken

Cover the slow cooker and let the chicken cook on low for 4–5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork. The low and slow cooking process allows the chicken to become incredibly juicy and infused with the aromatic herbs.

Adding the Orzo

About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir the uncooked orzo pasta into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for the remaining 30 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the flavorful cooking liquid.

Finishing Touches

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream (if using) until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy and luscious. You can shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker or remove it, shred it, and return it to the pot.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. This comforting one-pot meal pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for sopping up every last bit of the delicious sauce.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Bacon Ranch Chicken and Orzo Casserole
• One-Pot Sausage and Peppers Mac and Cheese
• Cheesy Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake

FAQs

How can I adjust the cooking time if I want to use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

When using bone-in chicken, the cooking time may need to be extended. Bone-in chicken typically requires about 30 minutes longer to cook than boneless chicken. If you’re using a slow cooker on low heat, aim for about 6 to 7 hours. If you’re cooking on high, check for doneness around the 4-hour mark. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Can I prepare the ingredients the night before and cook it in the morning?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients the night before. Chop the vegetables, season the chicken, and combine the ingredients in the slow cooker insert. Cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply place the slow cooker insert back into the base, set the timer, and start cooking. This method saves time and allows for a hassle-free dinner.

What can I do if the orzo absorbs too much liquid and becomes dry during cooking?

If you find that the orzo has absorbed too much liquid, you can add additional broth or water in small increments while cooking. Stir gently to incorporate and check the consistency. Alternatively, you can add a splash of cream or extra cheese towards the end of cooking to enhance the creaminess and help moisten the dish.

How can I enhance the flavor of the dish without adding extra salt?

To enhance the flavor without relying on extra salt, you can incorporate more herbs and spices. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil added at the end can brighten the dish. Additionally, using a high-quality chicken broth or adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar can elevate the flavors without the need for added salt.

Enjoy this comforting, one-pot Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and creamy orzo is sure to become a new family favorite.

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