Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that practically cooks itself, then this Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe is just what you need! It’s one of those beloved dishes that never fails to impress, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering. The combination of tender chicken, creamy orzo, and fragrant herbs makes it a comforting bowl of goodness that warms the heart.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. You can toss everything into the slow cooker, go about your day, and come home to an irresistible aroma filling your kitchen. Plus, it’s packed with flavor and perfect for meal prep!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: Just set it and forget it! This recipe requires minimal hands-on time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves creamy pasta and savory chicken—it’s a guaranteed hit at the dinner table!
• Great for meal prep: Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
• Flavorful herbs: The mix of Italian herbs and fresh parsley adds a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Comfort in a bowl: This dish wraps you in warmth with its creamy texture and hearty ingredients—perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will set you up for a delicious meal. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need for this scrumptious 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 (use more or less to your preference)

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

This Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey breast or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the pasta: If you don’t have orzo, small shells or any other pasta will work beautifully.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, peas, or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to give your dish a 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 the slow cooker insert over medium-high heat. If not, use a separate large skillet. Searing the chicken adds color and depth of flavor—trust me; it’s worth it! Brown each piece for about 2-3 minutes per side before setting them aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot/skillet where you browned the chicken, add the chopped yellow onion. Sauté over medium heat until softened and translucent—this usually takes about 4-5 minutes. The onions become sweet as they cook down, bringing so much flavor to your dish!

Step 3: Add Garlic and Herbs

Next, toss in your minced garlic along with the remaining dried Italian seasoning and any extra herbs you’re using. Stir everything together until fragrant—about a minute will do. This step helps release those lovely essential oils from the herbs!

Step 4: Deglaze with Grape Juice

If you’re using white grape juice, pour it into the pot now! Scrape any browned bits off the bottom to capture all that deliciousness. Let it simmer for just a couple of minutes until slightly reduced.

Step 5: Layer Everything into the Slow Cooker

Now it’s time to place those seared chicken pieces back into the pot on top of your aromatic mixture. Pour in that rich chicken broth evenly over everything, followed by half of your fresh parsley.

Step 6: Cook it Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it on LOW for about 5-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is fork-tender. Cooking times can vary based on your slow cooker model but aim for an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Shred and Stir In Orzo

Once cooked through, shred your tender chicken right inside the slow cooker with two forks. Then stir in uncooked orzo directly into that flavorful liquid—it’ll soak up all those gorgeous juices as it cooks.

Step 8: Add Creaminess

Return shredded chicken back into the mix and fold in cubed cream cheese until melted and creamy. Then gently incorporate freshly grated Parmesan cheese until fully combined—it adds such richness!

Step 9: Final Touches

Stir in any remaining parsley along with optional lemon zest for brightness right before serving. Give everything a taste; adjust seasonings if needed—perhaps more salt or pepper?

Step 10: Plate Up!

Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and perhaps more parsley just before serving this comforting dish hot from your slow cooker!

Enjoy every warm bite of this Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe! It’s sure to become one of your favorites too!

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

Cooking is all about making the process as enjoyable and delicious as possible, so here are some tips to help you achieve the best results with this delightful dish!

• Choose the right chicken: Opting for thighs over breasts can enhance tenderness and flavor, giving you a richer final dish. If you prefer breasts, just be mindful not to overcook them.
• Don’t skip searing: While it’s an optional step, searing the chicken first adds a wonderful depth of flavor that makes a noticeable difference in your finished meal.
• Adjust liquid as needed: Depending on how saucy you like your dish, feel free to add more broth or reduce it slightly. This ensures the orzo cooks perfectly without becoming too dry.
• Add fresh herbs at serving: Stirring in fresh parsley or lemon zest just before serving brightens up the flavors and gives your dish a fresh finish that elevates every bite.
• Customize your cheese: If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out Parmesan for a different cheese like Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free alternative to suit your preferences.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe

Serving this luscious dish is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make it even more delightful!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds color but also enhances the freshness of the dish.
• Extra Parmesan: Offering a side of grated Parmesan allows guests to add as much cheesy goodness as they desire!
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors and provide a zesty kick that complements the rich creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy chicken and orzo.
• Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed broccoli or green beans bring freshness and color to your plate while balancing out the richness of the main dish.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy croutons provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty chicken and orzo.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and seasoned simply with salt and pepper, roasted Brussels sprouts offer a nutty flavor that complements the meal well.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this comforting Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll impress family and friends alike. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe is a fantastic option for meal prep! It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for making in batches to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken and orzo in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Ensure the dish has cooled down before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Portion the chicken and orzo into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents before freezing.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat; add a splash of broth if it seems dry.
• Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use different types of pasta instead of orzo in this Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe?

Absolutely! While orzo works beautifully, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even rice. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I make my Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe creamy without cream cheese?

If you’d like to keep it dairy-free, consider using a plant-based cream cheese alternative. You can also add pureed cashews or a splash of coconut milk for creaminess!

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

Cooking time varies based on your slow cooker settings. On LOW, it typically takes 5-7 hours, while on HIGH, it takes about 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender enough to shred easily!

Can I add vegetables to my Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe?

Yes! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can enhance nutrition and flavor. Just toss them into the slow cooker along with the chicken!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe! Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a comforting meal that warms both heart and home. Whether you’re prepping for busy weeknights or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!