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Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken And Orzo Recipe
Welcome to a comforting and flavorful slow cooker parmesan herb chicken and orzo recipe that is perfect for a cozy family dinner. This dish combines the richness of parmesan and the freshness of herbs with tender chicken and orzo pasta, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that is sure to become a favorite.
Imagine the aroma of creamy parmesan sauce infused with aromatic herbs filling your kitchen as this dish simmers in the slow cooker. The flavors blend together beautifully, creating a dish that is both elegant and comforting, making it ideal for any occasion.
If you are looking for an easy parmesan herb chicken orzo slow cooker recipe that is not only delicious but also nutritious, then this is the recipe for you. It is packed with high protein ingredients and is gluten-free, making it a wholesome meal that the whole family will love.
Let’s get started on this mouthwatering slow cooker parmesan herb chicken and orzo recipe that will surely warm your heart and soul.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love creamy chicken recipes that are easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights, this slow cooker parmesan herb chicken and orzo is a must-try. The combination of savory parmesan, fragrant herbs, and tender chicken creates a dish that is both comforting and indulgent.
This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite herbs and spices. It is a great way to introduce new flavors to your family while enjoying a wholesome and satisfying meal.
With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking in the slow cooker, this dish is a convenient option for family dinners or meal prep. The creamy texture of the sauce paired with the tender chicken and orzo makes it a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more.
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this slow cooker parmesan herb chicken and orzo recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you are cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, this dish delivers on taste, texture, and satisfaction.
Ingredients
For this slow cooker parmesan herb chicken and orzo recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– Chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless
– Orzo pasta
– Chicken broth
– Parmesan cheese, grated
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary)
– Garlic, minced
– Onion, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
These simple and wholesome ingredients come together to create a dish that is both nourishing and delicious, perfect for any day of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.
2. In a slow cooker, layer the orzo at the bottom and place the seasoned chicken on top.
3. Add the minced garlic, diced onion, and fresh herbs around the chicken.
4. Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and orzo, ensuring everything is well covered.
5. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
6. Once the chicken is cooked, shred it into bite-sized pieces and stir it back into the orzo.
7. Add the grated parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
8. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed and serve hot garnished with fresh herbs.
Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture of this slow cooker parmesan herb chicken and orzo dish that is sure to delight your taste buds.
Tips for Success
1. Use fresh herbs for the best flavor and aroma in this dish.
2. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding it for the best texture.
3. Stir the orzo occasionally during cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker.
4. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
5. Customize the dish with your favorite vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
Variations & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version of this dish, you can omit the chicken and add extra vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a hearty and flavorful meal. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based option.
If you prefer a low-fat version of this recipe, you can use low-fat parmesan cheese or reduce the amount of cheese used. This modification will result in a lighter dish that is still packed with flavor.
To make this dish spicy, you can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a kick of heat. Adjust the amount of spice to suit your preference and enjoy a zesty twist on this classic recipe.
What to Serve With It
This slow cooker parmesan herb chicken and orzo pairs well with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette dressing. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the dish, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
For a complete meal, serve this dish with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce. The bread soaks up the sauce beautifully, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture to each bite.
To round out the meal, consider serving a side of roasted vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots. The caramelized flavors of the vegetables contrast nicely with the creamy chicken and orzo, creating a balanced and delicious plate.
Storage & Reheating
To store any leftovers of this slow cooker parmesan herb chicken and orzo, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the dish to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce.
If you have extra portions that you would like to freeze, portion them into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
To keep the sauce creamy when reheating, stir the dish occasionally and add a bit of liquid if needed to prevent it from drying out. The flavors will meld together even more after being refrigerated, resulting in a delicious meal with each reheated serving.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving of this slow cooker parmesan herb chicken and orzo recipe:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 12g
– Fiber: 3g
– Sugar: 2g
– Sodium: 600mg
This dish is a high-protein meal that is satisfying and nourishing, making it a great option for those looking for a balanced and delicious dinner. It is also gluten-free and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overcooking the chicken can result in dry and tough meat. Ensure the chicken is cooked just until tender to maintain its juiciness.
2. Adding too much liquid to the slow cooker can make the dish watery. Follow the recipe measurements carefully to achieve the right consistency for the sauce.
3. Forgetting to season the dish adequately can lead to bland flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
FAQ Section
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this dish. Thighs will add extra richness and flavor to the dish.
2. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, you can use a plant-based parmesan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
3. Can I cook this dish on high heat in the slow cooker?
While this recipe is designed for low heat cooking, you can cook it on high for a shorter time period if needed. Keep an eye on the dish to prevent overcooking.
4. Can I freeze the leftovers of this dish?
Yes, you can freeze any extra portions of this slow cooker parmesan herb chicken and orzo for later enjoyment. Simply thaw and reheat before serving.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a kick of heat to this dish, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy twist.
Conclusion
Indulge in the creamy and flavorful delight of this slow cooker parmesan herb chicken and orzo recipe that is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions. The combination of tender chicken, savory parmesan, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying, making it a winner in any kitchen.
Try this recipe today and experience the joy of slow-cooked goodness with every bite. Share your feedback and tips with us, and don’t forget to explore our other delicious recipes for more culinary inspiration. If you loved this dish, you may also enjoy our Creamy Chicken Alfredo for another creamy and indulgent meal.
Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken And Orzo
A comforting and flavorful slow cooker dish that combines tender chicken, creamy parmesan sauce, and aromatic herbs with orzo pasta. This hearty and satisfying meal is perfect for cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.
- Layer the orzo at the bottom of the slow cooker and place the seasoned chicken on top.
- Add minced garlic, diced onion, and fresh herbs around the chicken.
- Pour chicken broth over the chicken and orzo, ensuring everything is well covered.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and stir it back into the orzo.
- Add grated parmesan cheese, stir until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper if needed, serve hot garnished with fresh herbs.
