If you’re searching for a heartwarming meal that melds the rich, comforting flavors of Italian cuisine with the simplicity of a slow cooker, look no further than this Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo recipe. It’s a blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo that will bring smiles to the dinner table with its delightful flavors. Thanks to the magical powers of a slow cooker, this utterly satisfying dish cooks itself, allowing you to focus on savoring the aromas wafting through your home.
This dish marries the juiciness of chicken with sun-dried tomatoes’ tanginess and spinach’s freshness, topped off with the indulgence of heavy cream and Parmesan. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating your family to a cozy night in, this recipe is bound to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen. The beauty of this meal lies in its technique; throw the ingredients into the slow cooker, let it work its magic, and you’ll be rewarded with a rich and creamy Tuscan-inspired delight.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo
- Effortless Preparation: Just toss your ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work!
- Deliciously Creamy: The heavy cream and cheese create a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the orzo.
- Customizable Ingredients: Easy to swap out protein or make it dairy-free or gluten-free.
- Rich in Flavor: Enjoy the depth of flavors from Italian seasoning, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Makes great leftovers, perfect for a busy week ahead.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into creating your own Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo, it’s important to prepare your kitchen for success. First, gather all your ingredients and tools. You will need a cutting board and a sharp knife for chopping the chicken, onions, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. A measuring cup will come in handy for precise measurements, especially for the broth and cream. A large mixing spoon is essential for stirring your ingredients together in the slow cooker.
Your slow cooker is your best friend here, so make sure it’s clean and ready to go. Ideally, you’ll want a 4-quart slow cooker to allow enough room for the orzo to cook properly without overflowing. In addition to the slow cooker, you may wish to have a frying pan on hand if you prefer to sauté your onions and garlic beforehand for added flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small cubes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (not in oil)
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese
Optional Substitutions:
- Replace chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream.
- For gluten-free, use gluten-free orzo or small pasta.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by placing the cubed chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. This is the foundation of your meal, so ensure the cubes are evenly distributed. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper over the chicken, imbuing it with rich flavors from the get-go.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Next, add the aromatic elements. Scatter the minced garlic and diced onion over the seasoned chicken. These aromatics will infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks. Then, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, allowing their tanginess to elevate the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Take the low-sodium chicken broth and gently pour it over the layered chicken and vegetables. This broth will serve as the base of your sauce, creating a juicy environment for the chicken to cook in. Once everything is nicely layered, cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1-1.5 hours, depending on your schedule.
Step 4: Add the Cream and Orzo
With the chicken nearly cooked through, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Pour in the heavy cream and add the orzo pasta. Stir gently to combine everything, ensuring the orzo is coated with the creamy mixture. Continue cooking on low for an additional 20-30 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened beautifully.
Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Parmesan
As the final step, fold in the fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese. The spinach will wilt almost immediately, and the Parmesan will melt, creating a luscious sauce throughout the dish. If you like, let it sit for a few minutes after turning off the cooker. This extra time allows the orzo to absorb any remaining liquid for a thicker, creamier texture.
Variations
- Protein: Swap out chicken for shrimp or cook it vegetarian style with chickpeas for a hearty alternative.
- Vegetables: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for more texture and flavor variations.
- Spices: Increase heat by adding more red pepper flakes or introduce unique flavors with basil or oregano.
Cooking Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels; you can always add more salt later based on taste.
- For richer flavors, consider browning the chicken and aromatics in a frying pan before transferring them to the slow cooker.
- Don’t forget to check for doneness; cooking times can vary based on the size of your chicken pieces.
- Adjust the consistency of your sauce by adding more broth if it becomes too thick during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
- A green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements this rich pasta dish perfectly.
Tips
- For added depth, consider adding a splash of white wine to the broth before cooking.
- Stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice just before serving for freshness and a hint of brightness.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep; store leftovers in airtight containers for easy reheating!
- Experiment with different pasta; any small pasta shape will work well if you prefer something different than orzo.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours (slow cooker)
- Total Time: 2-3 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 620 per serving
- Protein: 45g
- Sodium: 780mg
FAQs
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and place them in the slow cooker the night before. Just store it in the fridge and cook it the next day!
What can I substitute for orzo?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or any other small pasta shape such as ditalini or small shells.
How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Cooking on low heat and adding plenty of moisture, such as the broth and cream, helps maintain the chicken’s tenderness.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables; just consider the total cooking time for firmer veggies like carrots or bell peppers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo is not only an easy go-to dish for hectic weeknights but also a delightful feast that your entire family will love. Its creamy texture paired with the nurturing flavors of Italian cuisine brings warmth and comfort to any dining occasion. So go ahead, create this culinary triumph in your slow cooker and discover the joy of a meal that beautifully balances simplicity and flavor. Don’t forget to experiment with your own variations and let us know in the comments how you made this delightful dish your own!
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Delicious Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo
- Total Time: 2-3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a comforting Italian dish combining chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small cubes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (not in oil)
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Begin by placing the cubed chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. This is the foundation of your meal, so ensure the cubes are evenly distributed. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper over the chicken, imbuing it with rich flavors from the get-go.
- Next, add the aromatic elements. Scatter the minced garlic and diced onion over the seasoned chicken. These aromatics will infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks. Then, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, allowing their tanginess to elevate the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Take the low-sodium chicken broth and gently pour it over the layered chicken and vegetables. This broth will serve as the base of your sauce, creating a juicy environment for the chicken to cook in. Once everything is nicely layered, cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1-1.5 hours, depending on your schedule.
- With the chicken nearly cooked through, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Pour in the heavy cream and add the orzo pasta. Stir gently to combine everything, ensuring the orzo is coated with the creamy mixture. Continue cooking on low for an additional 20-30 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened beautifully.
- As the final step, fold in the fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese. The spinach will wilt almost immediately, and the Parmesan will melt, creating a luscious sauce throughout the dish. If you like, let it sit for a few minutes after turning off the cooker. This extra time allows the orzo to absorb any remaining liquid for a thicker, creamier texture.
Notes
Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels; you can always add more salt later based on taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Protein: 45 g