Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that’s as comforting as a warm hug, then you’ve come to the right place! This Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. It’s packed with flavor, super easy to prepare, and best of all, it fills your home with an amazing aroma as it cooks.

Picture this: tender chicken simmering with aromatic herbs and creamy orzo pasta, all in one pot. This dish is perfect for those evenings when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s just a regular Tuesday night or a special occasion, this recipe will surely impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy Preparation: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic—no fuss!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: With its creamy goodness and savory herbs, even picky eaters will ask for seconds.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish brings warmth and happiness to any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather what we need to create this delicious dish!

For the Chicken

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

For Aromatics

• 1 Medium Yellow Onion, finely diced
• 4-5 Cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil or Butter (optional, for searing/sautéing)

For the Liquid

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

For the Herbs

• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
• ½ teaspoon Dried Rosemary, crushed slightly
• ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
• Salt and Black Pepper, to taste (start with ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper)

For the Pasta

• 1 cup (about 200g) Uncooked Orzo Pasta

For Creaminess

• 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 Freshness

• ¼ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice or Zest of ½ Lemon (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it based on your preferences.

• Swap the Protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken, try using turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in some spinach or peas during the last minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Change Up the Cheese: If Parmesan isn’t your favorite, consider using pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free twist.
• Spice It Up: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce if you enjoy an extra kick!

How to Make Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken (Optional)

For maximum flavor, start by heating olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Generously season your chicken with salt and pepper before placing it in the skillet. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown; this step adds depth to your dish. If you choose to skip searing, no worries! Just place raw seasoned chicken directly into your slow cooker along with diced onion and garlic.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Broth

Once your chicken is ready—or if you opted out of searing—pour in the low-sodium chicken broth over the chicken. Then sprinkle in dried thyme, oregano, rosemary, red pepper flakes if you’d like some heat, and your initial salt and pepper. Give everything a gentle stir so that all those lovely flavors get cozy together around the chicken.

Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender

Securely place the lid on your slow cooker. Cook on LOW for about 4-6 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours. Cooking times may vary based on your slow cooker model and whether you used breasts or thighs. The chicken should become tender enough to shred effortlessly.

Step 4: Shred That Chicken!

Once cooked through, carefully remove the chicken pieces from the slow cooker using tongs or a slotted spoon. Allow them to cool slightly before shredding them into bite-sized pieces using two forks—you want them nice and fluffy!

Step 5: Cook the Orzo

Turn your slow cooker setting to HIGH if it’s not already there. Stir uncooked orzo directly into that flavorful broth left behind in the slow cooker. Make sure most of it is submerged—it needs that liquid! Cover again and let cook for about 20-30 minutes until al dente while stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

When your orzo is perfectly cooked to your liking, return that shredded chicken back into the slow cooker mix! Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese along with optional heavy cream for extra indulgence. Gently stir until combined; you’ll see that glorious creaminess come together beautifully!

Step 7: Taste Test & Adjust Seasonings

Now comes one of my favorite parts—taste testing! Adjust seasonings according to your preference; feel free to add more salt, pepper, or even another pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. If it’s too thick? A splash more warm broth works wonders!

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle generous portions of creamy Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo into bowls. Don’t forget that final touch! Garnish each bowl with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before digging in. Serve immediately while it’s warm—and enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe

Creating a delicious and comforting dish is easy with just a few thoughtful steps!

• Sear the chicken for added flavor: Taking the time to sear the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its flavor and gives it a beautiful golden color. This extra step can elevate your dish significantly.

• Use low-sodium broth: Opting for low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of your dish, making it easier to adjust flavors without overwhelming saltiness.

• Monitor orzo cooking time: Different brands of orzo may have varying cooking times, so keep an eye on it as it cooks. Stirring occasionally helps ensure even cooking and prevents sticking.

• Adjust creaminess to your taste: Feel free to play around with the amount of heavy cream or half-and-half. Adding more will create a richer sauce, while less will keep it lighter.

• Experiment with herbs: Don’t hesitate to mix in fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or tarragon for a personal touch. Fresh herbs can brighten up the flavor profile of your dish!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe

This creamy dish is not only comforting but also visually appealing, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Serve it in generous portions, and don’t forget to showcase those beautiful garnishes!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color and freshness that brightens each bite.
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of Parmesan on top just before serving takes this dish from good to great with its rich flavor.
• Lemon zest: Adding a little lemon zest right before serving provides a refreshing citrus note that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is always a hit! Its crispy texture pairs perfectly with the creamy orzo.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while providing a satisfying crunch that balances out the richness of the chicken and sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini add depth and natural sweetness that complements the main dish wonderfully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo will surely impress everyone at your table! Enjoy each delicious bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe is a fantastic option for meal prep! It not only tastes delicious but also stores well, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lunch throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion out into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain creaminess.
• Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, use a microwave-safe container and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in the Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more flavor and moisture to the dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may take slightly longer than chicken breasts.

How do I adjust the flavors in my Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe?

Feel free to taste and adjust seasonings such as salt, pepper, or herbs during cooking. You can also add more lemon juice or zest at the end for a brighter flavor.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker?

While searing adds depth of flavor and a nice color to the chicken, it’s not necessary. You can skip this step and still achieve a tasty result!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular orzo with a gluten-free orzo pasta alternative. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary.

How long does this dish last after cooking?

Once cooked, this dish will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. It also freezes well for longer storage!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe! It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for your week ahead. Enjoy every creamy bite and feel free to share your experience. Happy cooking!