Description
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo is the ultimate one-pot comfort meal! Juicy slow-cooked chicken, creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, sundried tomatoes, and spinach come together for a rich, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home, this meal is guaranteed to impress!
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Orzo:
-
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 3 small)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Add the minced garlic, sundried tomatoes, and chicken broth.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Shred the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks.
- Return it to the slow cooker.
- Add Orzo and Spinach:
- Stir in the orzo and fresh spinach.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
- Make It Creamy:
- Stir in the heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese until fully combined.
- Serve and Enjoy!
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, comforting dish!
Notes
- Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness: They add a richer flavor to the dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Orzo: It should be tender but not mushy—check it frequently.
- Make it Lighter: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired