Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo
Experience the warmth and comfort of home with this Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe. This dish is a delightful fusion of tender chicken, creamy orzo pasta, and aromatic herbs that meld together in your slow cooker for a hassle-free meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma as it cooks to perfection. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or protein alternatives, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy this cozy dish that promises both flavor and satisfaction with every bite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4–6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1.5 cups uncooked orzo pasta
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes, optional
- Fresh lemon zest from 1/2 lemon, optional
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
Instructions
- Sear the chicken in olive oil (if possible) until golden brown; set aside.
- Sauté onions in the same pot until softened, then add garlic and herbs until fragrant.
- Return chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth; cook on LOW for 5-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- Shred cooked chicken inside the pot and stir in uncooked orzo.
- Add cream cheese and Parmesan until melted and combined.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; serve warm garnished with parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 85mg