Slow Cooker Chicken Orzo
Tender chicken and flavorful orzo pasta simmered in a rich broth, perfect for busy weekdays.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Total Time: 250 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free pasta)
Ingredients
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tsp mixed dried herbs (thyme and basil)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather ingredients: Start by mincing the garlic and measuring out the chicken broth and orzo.
- Season chicken: Generously sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken breasts.
- Combine in slow cooker: Place the seasoned chicken, minced garlic, chicken broth, and mixed herbs into the slow cooker. Stir well to mix everything together.
- Slow cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Add pasta and cream: About 30 minutes before serving, gently stir in the orzo, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Allow to cook until the orzo is tender.
- Serve: Once everything is cooked through, ladle the chicken and orzo into bowls, drizzling some of the savory sauce on top.
Notes
Keep an eye on cooking times to avoid overcooked chicken; add veggies or spices as desired.