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Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo | Easy Recipe

Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo | Easy Recipe

Description

If you’re looking for a comforting, easy-to-make meal that fills your home with the aromas of Italian cuisine, this Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo recipe is the perfect fit. Whether you’re a fan of hearty pasta dishes or creamy chicken meals, this recipe is ideal for anyone who loves a flavorful, low-effort dinner that practically cooks itself.

This dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked orzo, and a rich, creamy sauce filled with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a touch of Parmesan. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious recipe!

Ingredients

Scale

 

  • 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

Place the cubed chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Scatter the minced garlic and diced onion over the chicken. Then, add the sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tangy flavor.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Gently pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables. This will create the base for your flavorful sauce. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2–3 hours or on high for 1–1.5 hours.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Orzo

Once the chicken is nearly done, add the heavy cream and orzo to the slow cooker. Stir gently and cook on low for an additional 20–30 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Parmesan

Finally, stir in the fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese. The spinach will wilt, and the Parmesan will melt into the creamy sauce, adding a lovely richness to the dish.

Helpful Tip: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the orzo sit for a few minutes after turning off the slow cooker. It will absorb more of the liquid, making the dish even creamier.

Equipment

Notes

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and garlic enhance the flavor of the dish, giving it a vibrant taste.
  2. Don’t Skip the Parmesan: Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, savory flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
  3. Add Extra Veggies: For added nutrition, you can throw in extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.

Find it online: https://optimalrecipes.com/slow-cooker-creamy-tuscan-chicken-orzo-easy-recipe/