Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something magical about the aroma of garlic and Italian herbs wafting through your home, hinting at a warm, satisfying meal waiting to be enjoyed. This Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo brings that cozy feeling to life with minimal effort. Effortlessly prepared in your slow cooker, this dish not only delivers on comfort food but also provides a nutritious option with its tender chicken and creamy orzo—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. Imagine coming home to a meal that’s ready to serve, allowing you to enjoy quality time with your loved ones instead of hovering over the stove. Ready to add this crowd-pleaser to your meal rotation? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Is This Recipe So Appealing? Simplicity: The Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo is designed for anyone, even those new to cooking! Just season and let your slow cooker work its magic. Mouthwatering Aroma: Imagine returning home to a kitchen filled with the rich fragrance of garlic and Italian herbs; it’s guaranteed to whet your appetite! Creamy Delight: This dish boasts a luscious, creamy texture that perfectly complements the tenderness of the chicken, ensuring every bite is satisfying. Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is loved by kids and adults alike—a true comfort food! Customizable: Feel free to tweak the recipe by adding vegetables or swapping the orzo for gluten-free options, making it versatile for any dietary need. Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless yields the best tenderness for shredding. • Salt and Pepper – Season to taste for enhanced flavor; adjust based on broth saltiness. For the Pasta • Orzo Pasta – Provides a hearty base and texture; substitute with rice or quinoa for gluten-free options. For the Flavor • Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Enhances the dish without excess salt; can be swapped for vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. • Parmesan Cheese – Adds creaminess and umami; use freshly grated for the best results. • Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that contributes rich flavors; homemade or store-bought works well. • Garlic Powder – Infuses depth; fresh garlic can be used for a more robust profile. • Onion Powder – Enhances savory notes; can be omitted if desired. For Moisture and Richness • Olive Oil – Prevents sticking and adds richness; substitute with avocado oil if preferred. For the Greens • Spinach – Adds nutrition and color; fresh or frozen will work beautifully, or substitute with kale. • Fresh Parsley – Use for garnish; chives or oregano can provide a different flavor twist. Feel free to gather these ingredients and let the slow cooker work its magic in creating your very own Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker Begin by lightly coating your slow cooker with olive oil or a non-stick cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and ensure an easy cleanup later. Make sure to cover the bottom evenly before you continue on to the next steps. Step 2: Season the Chicken Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Ensure all surfaces of the chicken are well-coated, as this will infuse the dish with rich flavor and aroma during the cooking process. Step 3: Add the Chicken to the Slow Cooker Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the prepared slow cooker. Make sure to space the chicken about an inch apart to promote even cooking. This will allow the heat and flavors to circulate, ensuring that every piece turns out tender and juicy. Step 4: Pour in the Broth Next, pour low-sodium chicken broth over the chicken. The broth should fully cover the chicken pieces, which will contribute to the creamy texture of the Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo. Watching the broth embrace the chicken is a joyful part of this process. Step 5: Incorporate the Orzo Gently add the orzo pasta into the slow cooker, ensuring it is submerged under the broth. Stirring lightly allows the pasta to start cooking evenly without breaking. This is where the heartiness of the dish begins to form, creating a beautiful base for your meal. Step 6: Set the Cooking Time Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Monitor the cooking time based on the size of your chicken breasts, as larger pieces may require additional time to become perfectly tender. Step 7: Add Spinach and Parmesan For the last 30 minutes of cooking, add in fresh spinach and generously sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese. Stir gently to mix everything, allowing the cheese to melt and the spinach to wilt, which enhances the dish’s flavor and beautiful green color. Step 8: Shred the Chicken After the cooking time, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the pot, mixing it thoroughly with the creamy orzo and spinach to combine all the delicious elements of the Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo. Step 9: Adjust Seasoning Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to your preference. This final step ensures the flavors are just right, elevating your comforting meal to perfection. Step 10: Garnish and Serve Before serving, garnish your Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo generously with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a beautiful touch and a burst of fresh flavor. Now it’s ready to be enjoyed—serve it warm and relish the joy of a homemade meal! How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact while keeping your creamy dish fresh. Freezer: If freezing, pour the cooled Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo into freezer-safe bags or containers, and enjoy it within 2-3 months for the best quality. Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens. Portioning: Consider portioning out servings before freezing to make defrosting easier, allowing you to enjoy a cozy meal whenever the cravings hit! Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo Variations Feel free to explore these tasty twists and substitutions to make this recipe your own and delight everyone’s palate! Gluten-Free: Substitute orzo with quinoa, rice, or a gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs without missing out on flavor. Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or even carrots to increase nutrition and flavor while making the dish even more hearty and colorful. Different Cheeses: Mix things up by using mozzarella or feta instead of Parmesan; each cheese brings a unique twist to the creamy base. Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a delightful spiciness that will elevate the dish. Herb Variations: Swap Italian seasoning for a blend of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh herbal note that brightens every bite. Creamier Texture: For an ultra-creamy finish, stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese during the last minutes of cooking. Protein Swap: Try using turkey or even plant-based proteins like chickpeas for a different flavor and nutritional profile. Broth Alternatives: Instead of chicken broth, consider using mushroom broth to enrich the flavors further, giving the dish an earthy undertone. These variations make it easy to customize your Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo to fit your family’s preferences or dietary needs. Enjoy experimenting and creating your very own masterpiece with these flavorful tips! Make Ahead Options These Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline mealtime! You can season the chicken and prepare the broth with orzo up to 24 hours in advance, just refrigerate the seasoned chicken in an airtight container. Additionally, you can wash and chop the spinach and store it separately. When you’re ready to cook, simply add everything to the slow cooker and continue with the recipe as directed. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal that’s just as flavorful while saving precious time on hectic weeknights. Enjoy the comforting aroma of this dish, knowing that your prep work is already done! What to Serve with Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo There’s nothing quite like building a full meal around the creamy, savory flavors of this delightful dish. Garlic Bread: The perfect vehicle for soaking up all that delicious broth, this warm, crusty bread enhances the Italian flavors wonderfully. Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds zest and balances the creaminess of the chicken and orzo. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers roasted to caramelized perfection bring a delightful texture and color contrast to your plate. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, this green side offers a fresh crunch and pairs beautifully with the creamy nature of the slow-cooked chicken. Creamy Coleslaw: A lightly-dressed slaw adds a tangy crunch which cuts through the richness of the main dish, providing a refreshing bite. Sparkling Lemonade: Brighten up your meal with a sparkling lemonade; its citrus notes will cleanse your palate and enhance the flavors of the chicken. When serving your Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo, each of these pairings will elevate your dining experience to a new level of warmth and satisfaction. Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo Even Seasoning: Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with spices and seasonings to maximize flavor throughout the dish. Watch Cooking Time: Be cautious not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender. Adjust cooking times according to the size of the chicken breasts used. Gentle Stirring: When adding orzo and spinach, stir gently to prevent breaking the pasta or wilting the greens too much. Taste as You Go: Always taste before serving! Adjust seasoning at the end, considering the saltiness of your broth and personal preferences. Make Ahead: Prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in your slow cooker. In the morning, simply plug it in for an easy, ready-to-eat dinner! Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo Recipe FAQs What type of chicken is best for this recipe? I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best tenderness. This cut is easier to shred and ensures that the chicken remains juicy during cooking. If you have chicken thighs on hand, they can also work well, providing a bit more flavor. How should I store leftovers from the Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the creamy texture and flavors. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid drying it out. Can I freeze Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo? Absolutely! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe bags or containers. For the best quality, use it within 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much during freezing. What should I do if my chicken is overcooked and tough? If your chicken ends up overcooked, don’t worry too much! To salvage it, you can try shredding it finely and folding it back into the creamy orzo, making it less noticeable. Adding a bit more broth or cheese can also help enhance the flavor and moisture. Can I customize this recipe for dietary restrictions? Yes, it’s very easy to customize! For a gluten-free option, you can easily swap the orzo for quinoa or a gluten-free pasta. If you’re vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and feel free to add more greens or legumes for protein. How can I tell if my chicken is cooked perfectly? To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Additionally, it should shred easily with two forks, and you can check for juiciness. If any pink remains, cook it for a little longer in the slow cooker, checking every 15 minutes until done. Creamy Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo Delight Savor the comforting flavors of Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo, a nutritious, easy meal perfect for any night. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 6 hours hrsTotal Time 6 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 470 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pounds Boneless, skinless chicken breaststo taste Saltto taste PepperFor the Pasta1 cup Orzo pasta Can substitute with rice or quinoa for gluten-free options.For the Flavor4 cups Low-sodium chicken broth Can be swapped for vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.1 cup Parmesan cheese Use freshly grated for best results.2 tablespoons Italian seasoning1 teaspoon Garlic powder Fresh garlic can be used for more robust flavor.1 teaspoon Onion powder Can be omitted if desired.For Moisture and Richness2 tablespoons Olive oil Can substitute with avocado oil if preferred.For the Greens2 cups Fresh spinach Or substitute with kale.1 tablespoon Fresh parsley Use for garnish; chives or oregano can be used as alternatives. Equipment Slow Cooker Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by lightly coating your slow cooker with olive oil or a non-stick cooking spray.Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder.Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the prepared slow cooker.Next, pour low-sodium chicken broth over the chicken.Gently add the orzo pasta into the slow cooker, ensuring it is submerged under the broth.Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.For the last 30 minutes of cooking, add in fresh spinach and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese.After the cooking time, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as necessary.Before serving, garnish your Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken with Orzo with freshly chopped parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 470kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 38gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 660mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2.5mg NotesFor best results, prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in your slow cooker for an easy, ready-to-eat dinner. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
