There’s something magical about a dish that combines comfort and elegance, and Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo does just that.
Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Tuscany, this recipe brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and hearty orzo in a way that feels both indulgent and satisfying.
Ingredient List
To make my Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo, I gather the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs – These stay moist throughout cooking and absorb all the wonderful flavors.
- 1 cup onion – Diced for a savory base that adds depth to the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic – Minced to give that aromatic kick we love in Tuscan recipes.
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes – Chopped, these add a burst of tangy sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings the essence of Tuscany to my kitchen.
- 1 teaspoon salt – To enhance all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – For a mild heat that complements the dish.
- 4 cups chicken broth – The foundation of the creamy sauce layer.
- 1 cup heavy cream – To enrich the sauce, making it luxuriously creamy.
- 1 cup frozen peas – Tossed in towards the end for a pop of color and sweetness.
- 2 cups orzo pasta – This small pasta absorbs the creamy goodness beautifully.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Added at the end for that final touch of cheesy goodness.
- Fresh basil – Chopped for garnish and a hint of freshness right before serving.
With these ingredients in hand, I’m ready to create a dish that blends creamy comfort with vibrant flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
Begin by trimming any excess fat from the 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure even browning.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add 1 diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Then add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Build the Flavor Base
Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Toss in the sun-dried tomatoes (about 1 cup) followed by 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir to combine everything.
- Add the Chicken and Broth
Place the prepared chicken thighs on top of the mixture in the slow cooker. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is submerged.
- Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily pull apart with a fork.
- Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the cooker.
- Incorporate the Cream and Orzo
Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of orzo pasta. Cover and cook on high for 30 minutes until the orzo is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add the Finishing Touches
Once the orzo is cooked, toss in 1 cup of frozen peas and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the peas are heated through and the cheese melts.
- Garnish and Serve
Finish with a handful of freshly chopped basil. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy Tuscan flavors that fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort.
Recipe Notes & Variations
When making Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo, there are some tips and variations I like to keep in mind to enhance the dish further.
- Substitutions: You can swap out chicken thighs for boneless skinless chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. However, I find thighs add more flavor and moisture to the dish.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables such as spinach or kale during the last half hour of cooking. This not only adds nutrition but also enhances the dish’s vibrant colors.
- Herb Variations: While I love using Italian seasoning, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavor. I recommend adding these at the beginning of the cooking process for a rich aroma.
- Dairy Alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut cream. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to balance any sweeter notes you might introduce.
- Serving Suggestions: I enjoy serving the orzo with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness. Pairing it with a side salad or crusty bread complements the dish perfectly.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance. Cook the chicken and sauce, then store it in the fridge. When ready to enjoy, simply mix in the orzo and heat it through.
- Freezing: If you have leftovers, I recommend freezing them before adding the heavy cream and orzo. Thaw and heat on the stove, then incorporate the cream and orzo as directed in the recipe.
These notes and variations allow me to customize the recipe based on what I have on hand and my personal preferences, making it a flexible weeknight meal.
Serving Suggestions
To serve my Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo in a delightful way, I start by plating a generous scoop of the orzo on each dish.
I love to garnish it with an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that rich and savory touch.
Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top brightens the flavors and adds a nice zing that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
I often pair this dish with a simple side salad. A mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty orzo.
I also enjoy serving it with crusty Italian bread or garlic bread, perfect for scooping up every bit of the creamy sauce.
For an even cozier meal, I’ll serve it in shallow bowls, making it easy to enjoy with a spoon.
I might also drizzle a bit of high-quality olive oil on top before serving, enhancing the flavors and presentation.
If I’m entertaining guests, I love to create a beautiful serving platter with the orzo centerpiece flanked by a variety of Italian antipasti like marinated olives, roasted red peppers, and artichoke hearts.
This makes the meal feel special and sets a delightful tone for the gathering.
For those looking for a complete meal experience, I suggest pairing the dish with a glass of light-bodied white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
The refreshing notes in the wine will balance out the creaminess of the dish perfectly.
Nutrition Information
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo meal provides a delightful balance of flavors and nutrients.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the nutritional information per serving, based on the typical ingredients used in the recipe:
| Nutritional Element | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 |
| Protein (g) | 35 |
| Total Fat (g) | 25 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 12 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 50 |
| Dietary Fiber (g) | 3 |
| Sugars (g) | 3 |
| Sodium (mg) | 700 |
This dish is rich in protein from the chicken and creamy ingredients, making it both satisfying and filling.
The orzo adds a delicious source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your day.
With healthy fats from the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, this dish also has a creamy texture that enhances the overall flavor experience.
To make it more nutritious, I sometimes opt to add in extra vegetables such as spinach or kale, which elevate the fiber content and add vibrant color.
If you’re looking to reduce calories or fat, consider using low-fat cream alternatives or reducing the amount of cheese in the recipe while still maintaining flavor.
Conclusion
I can’t wait for you to try this Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo.
It’s the perfect blend of comfort and elegance that makes weeknight dinners feel special.
With its rich flavors and creamy texture it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs to make it your own.
Whether you’re serving it for a cozy night in or entertaining guests this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!