There is nothing quite as heartwarming and indulgent as this Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Recipe—a dish that effortlessly combines tender chicken, delicate orzo, and richly flavored sun-dried tomatoes in a velvety sauce. It’s the perfect comfort meal that comes together with minimal fuss in your slow cooker, delivering a creamy, savory experience that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Every bite is packed with layers of Italian-inspired flavor, making this recipe a go-to for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to crafting the perfect texture and taste of this Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Recipe. Each element works in harmony—from the herbs that bring aromatic depth to the creamy cheese that rounds out the dish—giving you a rich, satisfying meal with ease.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Provides tender, juicy protein that soaks up all the flavors as it cooks low and slow.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs including oregano and basil for that classic Tuscan taste.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory undertone that complements fresh garlic beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Introduces a gentle bite and warmth to elevate the dish.
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped: Provides a sweet, savory foundation that melts into the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh and pungent, garlic is essential for that irresistible aroma and flavor.
- 1 (15-ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped: Brings a tangy, slightly sweet punch and vibrant color.
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and infused with depth while controlling sodium levels.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, creamy texture that makes this recipe so irresistible.
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta (uncooked): Absorbs the flavorful sauce and offers a tender bite.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Adds a fresh, green pop and nutritional boost just before serving.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives an umami-rich finish and ties the flavors together with its nutty sharpness.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): Elevates the presentation and brings a burst of herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Season and Layer the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle them evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This simple but key seasoning step infuses the chicken with those classic Tuscan flavors from the very beginning, setting the stage for a deeply savory base.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Liquids
On top of the chicken, add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. These aromatics bring sweetness and a hint of tang, perfectly complementing the creamy richness to come. Pour the chicken broth over everything to create a flavorful cooking environment that will keep the chicken moist and tender during slow cooking.
Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is incredibly tender and easy to shred. This hands-off cooking time builds deep flavor and lets all ingredients meld beautifully.
Step 4: Shred Chicken and Add Cream and Orzo
Remove the chicken pieces and shred them using two forks or chop to your preferred size. Return the chicken to the slow cooker, then stir in the heavy cream and uncooked orzo pasta. This step transforms the dish as the creamy sauce thickens and the pasta cooks right in the slow cooker for ultimate convenience.
Step 5: Final Cooking and Adding Greens and Cheese
Cover and cook on high for another 20 to 30 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the orzo is tender and creamy. Just before serving, stir in fresh baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the heat wilt the spinach and melt the cheese, enhancing the dish with vibrant color and savory richness. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly by resting it for about 5 minutes before plating.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
Adding freshly chopped basil or parsley just before serving brightens the dish with a fresh herbaceous note and makes it visually inviting. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese adds a wonderfully cheesy finish that will delight your taste buds.
Side Dishes
This creamy Tuscan chicken orzo shines on its own but also pairs beautifully with crisp, roasted vegetables or a light mixed green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread is another fantastic option to soak up every luscious bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve it in shallow bowls with a little extra drizzle of olive oil and a few sun-dried tomato pieces on top. You can also use colorful plates or rustic bowls to emphasize the Italian-inspired vibe. Adding a lemon wedge on the side can provide an unexpected citrus boost if you want a lively contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often become even more pronounced after sitting overnight, making for an even better meal the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but for best texture, consider freezing before adding the spinach and Parmesan. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. Avoid microwaving straight from frozen as it may result in uneven heating.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves time—simply shred it and add it in during the final cooking stage with the cream and orzo. Just reduce the initial slow cooking time or skip it altogether.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese entirely. The sun-dried tomatoes and broth carry much of the flavor, so it will still be delicious.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding mushrooms, peas, or even roasted red peppers. Add sturdier vegetables at the beginning and more delicate ones, like spinach, near the end to keep their texture.
What type of slow cooker works best?
Any standard slow cooker with a “low” and “high” setting works great. Just adjust cooking times according to your appliance’s size and heat intensity for the best results.
How do I know when the orzo is perfectly cooked?
Check the orzo after 20 minutes of cooking in the slow cooker. It should be tender but not mushy. If it needs more time, give it another 5 to 10 minutes and stir occasionally to prevent clumping.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a foolproof, cozy meal that feels like a special treat without complicated steps, this Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Recipe is calling your name. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, sharing its creamy, comforting magic with anyone lucky enough to join your table. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable dinner experience.
Print
Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes (or 3 hours 15 minutes)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a comforting and delicious one-pot meal that features tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and creamy Parmesan orzo. Perfect for busy days, it uses a slow cooker to infuse rich Italian flavors into every bite while requiring minimal hands-on time.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach
Other Ingredients
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta (uncooked)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker Base: Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Evenly sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the chicken to season it thoroughly.
- Add Aromatics and Tomatoes: Top the seasoned chicken with the finely chopped yellow onion, minced garlic, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. These ingredients will infuse deep flavor as the chicken cooks.
- Pour in Broth and Cook: Pour 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth into the slow cooker, making sure the liquid covers the ingredients somewhat. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the slow cooker to combine with the cooking liquids.
- Add Cream and Orzo: Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and 1 ½ cups uncooked orzo pasta. Cover and cook on high for another 20 to 30 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the orzo is tender and the mixture is creamy.
- Finish with Spinach and Cheese: Just before serving, stir in 2 cups baby spinach and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Let the dish sit in the slow cooker for about 5 minutes to allow the spinach to wilt and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, then serve warm for a flavorful and comforting meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time by adding it in step 4 instead of slow cooking the raw chicken.
- Add mushrooms or peas with the sun-dried tomatoes for extra vegetables.
- Adjust salt and seasoning to taste before serving.
