Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with the ease of slow cooking. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a hint of spinach and Parmesan, this comforting meal is effortless to prepare. Just set it and forget it until it’s time to serve. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, you’ll be amazed at how simple and satisfying it is!

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours (slow cook) or 2 to 3 hours (high cook)
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 550 kcal
• Protein: 36 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fat: 25 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 850 mg

Why Make This Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo

This recipe is not just about convenience; it’s also about flavor. The slow-cooked chicken becomes incredibly tender, soaking up the savory essence of garlic and Italian seasoning while hinting at a comforting richness from the cream and cheese. The addition of orzo pasta makes it filling, while fresh spinach adds a burst of color and a hint of nutrition. This dish is perfect for those moments when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Make Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. This ensures they receive the most moisture and flavor from the other ingredients.

Step 2: Mixing

Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Stir gently to combine everything well.

Step 3: Cooking

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. This slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and imbued with the herb-infused broth.

Step 4: Finishing

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the orzo pasta and fresh spinach. Once the orzo is cooked, which will take around 10-15 minutes, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Serve this delicious dish hot and enjoy it with crusty bread for dipping or alongside a simple salad. It makes for a hearty meal that can easily delight family and friends, making it great for gatherings or potlucks.

How to Store Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The orzo may absorb some of the liquid as it sits, but you can add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to restore its creaminess.

Expert Tips for Perfect Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo

• Ensure the chicken is spread out evenly for even cooking.
• If you like a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to your broth for a spicy twist.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or omit it altogether.
• Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.

Delicious Variations

• Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate olives and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
• Veggie Lovers: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian option.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh basil or parsley before serving for added freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
  Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by about 1 hour on low or 30 minutes on high.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?
  Yes, prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently before serving.

• What can I serve with this dish?
  It pairs nicely with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables.

• Can I use a different type of pasta?
  Yes, but cooking times may vary. Check the packaging for cooking instructions and adjust accordingly.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?
  To make it gluten-free, opt for gluten-free orzo pasta.

Conclusion

Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo is the perfect comfort food, combining rich flavors and creamy textures. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum satisfaction. Whether you’re busy during the week or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try, and enjoy the deliciousness of Italian cuisine right at home!

Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo

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• Author: sara
• Total Time: 250 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful slow-cooked dish featuring tender chicken, creamy sauce, orzo pasta, and fresh spinach, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

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Instructions

1. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Stir gently to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the orzo pasta and fresh spinach. Once the orzo is cooked (10-15 minutes), stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or omit it altogether. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 240 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 90mg