Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken served with orzo noodles

Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe

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why make this recipe

Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal hands-on time, this recipe lets the slow cooker do all the work. You get tender chicken and creamy orzo that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s simple enough for a family dinner yet impressive enough for guests.

how to make Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo

Ingredients:

  • Chicken: 1.5 lbs (about 680g) Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs (or a mix)

  • Aromatics:

    • 1 Medium Yellow Onion, finely diced
    • 4-5 Cloves Garlic, minced

  • Fat:

    • 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil or Butter (optional, for searing/sautéing)

  • Liquid:

    • 4 cups (approx. 950ml) Low-Sodium Chicken Broth

  • Herbs:

    • 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 tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper)

  • Pasta:

    • 1 cup (about 200g) Uncooked Orzo Pasta

  • Dairy/Cheese:

    • 1 cup (about 100g) Grated Parmesan Cheese, plus more for serving
    • ¼ to ½ cup (60-120ml) Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half (optional, for extra creaminess)

  • Fresh Finish:

    • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)

  • Optional Brightness:

    • 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice or Zest of ½ Lemon (stirred in at the end)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Optional: For maximum flavor, heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and place it in the bottom of your slow cooker.

  2. Aromatics: If you used the skillet, add the diced onion to the remaining drippings and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Scrape the mixture into the slow cooker over the chicken. If you skip searing, just place the raw, seasoned chicken in the slow cooker and scatter raw onion and garlic over the top.

  3. Combine Ingredients: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and aromatics in the slow cooker. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, rosemary, optional red pepper flakes, and initial salt and pepper. Gently stir to combine.

  4. Slow Cook: Secure the lid. Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours, until chicken is tender and easily shredded.

  5. Shred Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

  6. Cooking Orzo: Turn the slow cooker to HIGH (if it wasn’t already). Stir in the uncooked orzo, ensuring it’s mostly submerged in liquid. Cover and cook for 20-30 minutes, checking after 15 minutes, until orzo is tender.

  7. Final Touches: Once the orzo is cooked, stir the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker. Add grated Parmesan cheese and optional heavy cream, stirring until melted and creamy. Mix in the chopped parsley and optional lemon juice or zest.

  8. Taste and Adjust: Sample the dish, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed. If it’s too thick, stir in some warm broth or cream.

  9. Serve: Ladle the creamy dish into bowls. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips

  • Searing the chicken enhances the flavor, so consider it if you have the time.
  • Be cautious while stirring the orzo; it can stick to the sides.
  • Always check the broth level; add more if necessary.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s an all-in-one meal that combines protein and carbs, making it satisfying for everyone. Plus, the slow cooker makes it incredibly easy!

how to serve Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo

This dish is perfect on its own but can be paired with a side salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of extra fresh parsley or a wedge of lemon for some added brightness.

how to store Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you feel it has thickened too much, just add a splash of broth when reheating.

tips to make Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo

  • Adjust the herbs based on your preference; feel free to add fresh herbs if you have them.
  • For a bit of crunch, consider adding some toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top when serving.

variation

Try substituting the orzo with another small pasta shape or even rice if you prefer. You can also add vegetables like spinach or peas during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking for a pop of color and nutrition.

Nutrition Information

The nutritional values will vary depending on ingredients used and portion sizes but expect it to be hearty and satisfying without excessive calories. Approximate values per serving (if divided into 6 servings) might include around 400-500 calories, with protein, carbs, and fats varying based on added cream or cheese.

Storage and Reheating

To reheat, microwave individual servings until warm, or in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems too dry, add a little more broth or cream.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to play around with spices and herbs. Try adding some Italian seasoning or even a splash of white wine for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen chicken?
    Yes, frozen chicken can be used, but it may require longer cooking time.

  2. Can I make this without cheese?
    Absolutely! You can skip the cheese for a lighter version, but you might want to add more seasonings for flavor.

  3. Can I add veggies?
    Yes! Adding vegetables like spinach, carrots, or bell peppers can enhance the dish, just add them in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.

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