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Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo

Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo for Cozy Nights

Enjoy a delicious Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo, a comforting dish perfect for busy families craving homemade meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts/Thighs Thighs give a richer flavor.
For the Seasoning
  • 2 tsp Italian Seasoning Feel free to use your favorite blend.
  • to taste Salt Enhances flavors.
  • to taste Black Pepper Enhances flavors.
For the Base
  • 4 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth Vegetable broth is a lighter alternative.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Consider cooking separately for firmer texture.
  • 2 tbsp Butter Olive oil can be used for a healthier option.
For the Vegetables
  • 8 oz Sliced Mushrooms Can be omitted or replaced with zucchini or onions.
  • 1 medium Finely Chopped Onion No specific substitutions.
  • 3 cloves Minced Garlic Use fresh for better flavor.
For the Finish
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated works best for melting.
  • to taste Fresh Herbs (Thyme/Parsley) Garnish optional; substitute with basil or oregano.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Brown the chicken in a skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side.
  2. Transfer the browned chicken into a greased slow cooker, spreading it out evenly.
  3. In the same skillet, add broth, butter, mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Stir to combine and pour over chicken.
  4. Cover slow cooker and set to high for 1-2 hours or low for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.
  5. Stir in the orzo and cook on high for another 30-45 minutes until orzo is tender.
  6. Remove chicken, stir contents, return chicken, sprinkle with Parmesan, cover to melt cheese for 5-10 minutes.
  7. Serve warm, garnished with herbs and black pepper.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Great for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

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