Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a rich, comforting, and easy one-pot meal packed with juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and orzo pasta in a creamy, garlicky sauce. With minimal prep, the slow cooker does all the work, resulting in tender, flavorful chicken and perfectly cooked orzo. This dish is high in protein, full of Mediterranean-inspired flavors, and perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
For the Slow Cooker:
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Finishing:
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
1. Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Add chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
3. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or on HIGH for 2.5-3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken & Add Orzo
1. Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
2. Stir in orzo, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Cover and cook for another 30-40 minutes on LOW, until the orzo is tender, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Finish the Dish
1. Once orzo is fully cooked, stir in spinach, lemon juice, and cream cheese (if using).
2. Let sit for 5 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and flavors to blend.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan before serving.
Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 450
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 4g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Sodium: 600mg
Calcium: 20% DV
Iron: 15% DV
(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Notes & Tips
Make It Lighter: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
Make It Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use dairy-free Parmesan.
Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute orzo for gluten-free pasta or cooked rice.
Add More Veggies: Stir in mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Storage & Reheating:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Slow Cooker Time: 4.5-5.5 hours
Total Time: 5-6 hours
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy—the perfect comfort meal with minimal effort. Enjoy!