Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that seems to hug you from the inside, then this Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe is just what you need! This dish has become a staple in my home because it’s not only easy to prepare, but it also fills the air with the most wonderful aroma while it cooks. Imagine coming home after a long day and being greeted by the rich scent of herbs and chicken—pure bliss!

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also great for family gatherings or meal prep, as it makes enough to feed a crowd or provide tasty leftovers. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding this dish to your regular rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: With its creamy texture and delightful flavors, everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This recipe is perfect for meal prep—simply prepare it in advance and enjoy later in the week.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of herbs and cheese creates an irresistible taste that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need for the Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe:

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs (about 680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, trimmed of excess fat.

Aromatics

• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4-6 cloves garlic, minced

Herbs (The Heart of the Flavor!)

• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp dried rosemary)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (if not using in Italian blend)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (if not using in Italian blend)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, divided (half for cooking, half for garnish)
• Optional: 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary to lay on top during cooking

Liquids & Sauce Base

• 4 cups (32 fl oz or approx 950ml) low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/4 cup dry white grape juice (optional; can be substituted with more broth)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil

Pasta

• 1.5 cups (about 10 oz or 280g) uncooked orzo pasta

Dairy (For Creaminess & Richness)

• 4 oz (1/2 block or 113g) cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
• 3/4 cup (about 3 oz or 85g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

Seasoning & Garnish

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh lemon zest from 1/2 lemon (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even chickpeas for a plant-based option that still delivers on flavor.
• Add some veggies: Toss in your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or carrots for added nutrition.
• Change up the pasta: Instead of orzo, try rice or quinoa to switch things up while keeping that comforting vibe.
• Make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!

How to Make Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

If your slow cooker has a sear function, heat the olive oil in it over medium-high heat. If not, grab a large skillet instead! Searing adds wonderful depth of flavor by creating those tasty browned bits. Cook each side of the chicken for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown before setting it aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In that same pot or skillet, add the chopped yellow onion. Sauté over medium heat until softened and translucent—this usually takes about 4-5 minutes. The onions will sweeten during this time and set a lovely base for our dish.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Herbs

Now, introduce minced garlic along with your dried Italian seasoning mixture. If you’re adding extra herbs like rosemary or thyme separately, toss them in as well. Cook everything together until fragrant—this should take about one minute—and remember to stir constantly so that nothing burns!

Step 4: Deglaze if Needed

If you’re using white grape juice, pour it into your pot now! Scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom as you do this—it’s where all that flavor hangs out. Let it simmer briefly so it reduces slightly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Place your seared chicken back into the pot over that aromatic onion mixture. Pour in all that beautiful chicken broth evenly over everything. Then sprinkle half of the fresh parsley on top along with any herb sprigs if you’re using those too.

Step 6: Cook It Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it to LOW for about 5-7 hours—or HIGH for about 3-4 hours if you’re short on time. The chicken should become incredibly tender during this process!

Step 7: Shred Your Chicken

Once cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F), shred your chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks right inside the slow cooker.

Step 8: Add Orzo Pasta

Stir in uncooked orzo directly into all those flavorful juices in there! This step makes everything creamy as it cooks together.

Step 9: Cream Cheese Magic

Return your shredded chicken back into the pot and combine well with everything else. Now fold in those cubes of softened cream cheese until they melt down into a smooth sauce.

Step 10: Finish It Off

Gently mix in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated—it’s going to be cheesy perfection! Stir in remaining parsley and lemon zest at this point too if you’re using them.

Step 11: Taste Test Time!

Give everything a taste now! Adjust seasonings as needed; maybe sprinkle in more salt or pepper based on what you love most. A little squeeze of lemon juice can really brighten things up too!

Step 12: Serve It Up!

Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving immediately! Enjoy every bite of this cozy bowl of goodness—you deserve it!

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

Cooking can be a breeze with the right techniques! Here are some pro tips to help you achieve the best results with this recipe.

• Choose the right chicken cut: Opting for chicken thighs will yield a more tender and flavorful dish, while chicken breasts offer a leaner option. Both work well, but thighs are less likely to dry out during cooking.
• Don’t skip searing the chicken: If time allows, searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the flavor by creating a beautiful crust and caramelization. It adds depth to your final dish that you won’t want to miss!
• Adjust cooking time based on your slow cooker model: Cooking times may vary due to different slow cooker models. Keep an eye on the doneness of your chicken, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked meat.
• Incorporate fresh herbs at the end: Adding fresh parsley and lemon zest just before serving brightens up the dish and adds a pop of freshness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Make it a meal prep winner: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to three days or freezes perfectly. It’s ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe

Presentation can elevate any meal, and this Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo is no exception! Here are some ideas to serve this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of additional parsley not only adds color but also enhances flavor.
• Extra Grated Parmesan: Offering freshly grated Parmesan on the side lets everyone customize their cheesiness level!
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with wedges of lemon for guests who enjoy a zesty kick in their dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any creamy sauce left on your plate, making each bite even more delightful.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add a fresh, crisp contrast and vibrant color that balances out the richness of the chicken and orzo.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing side that complements the meal nicely.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring in natural sweetness and textures that pair wonderfully with this savory dish.

With these tips on hand and ideas for serving, you’re all set to impress at your dinner table! Enjoy this cozy meal with family or friends – it’s sure to become an instant favorite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week. Here’s how to handle your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the leftover chicken and orzo to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Label your container with the date, so you know when it’s best enjoyed.

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals.
• Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water if it appears too thick.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

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

Yes! Chicken thighs will yield tender and flavorful results, making them a great choice for this recipe.

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

Taste the dish after adding all ingredients and before serving. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness!

Can I substitute orzo with another type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any small pasta shape like ditalini or even rice if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.

What can I serve with my Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe?

This dish is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How long does it take to cook the Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe?

Cooking on LOW takes about 5-7 hours and on HIGH about 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender enough to shred easily!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe as much as I do! It’s comforting, creamy, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try – I love hearing from fellow home cooks! Happy cooking!