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Best Orzo Dinner Recipe
Daniel Hayes

Best Orzo Dinner Recipe | Easy Slow Cooker Meal

Tender chicken, perfectly al dente orzo, and fresh spinach in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce—all made in the slow cooker with just 10 minutes prep. The ultimate easy slow cooker meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 415
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 small onion (diced)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (undrained)
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream (or milk)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Equipment

  • 6-Quart or Larger Slow Cooker For even cooking
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Wooden Spoon For gentle stirring

Method
 

  1. Place chicken, diced onion, minced garlic, undrained tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and olive oil in the slow cooker. Stir gently.
  2. Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 2.5-3 hours until chicken reaches 165°F and shreds easily.
  3. Remove chicken, shred or cut into bite-sized pieces, and return to slow cooker.
  4. Stir in uncooked orzo. Cover and cook on HIGH for 30-40 minutes, stirring once halfway, until orzo is tender but still has a slight chew.
  5. Stir in fresh spinach, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Cover and cook on HIGH 5-10 minutes until spinach wilts and sauce becomes creamy.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot while creamy and delicious.

Notes

Add orzo only in the last 30-40 minutes for best texture. Works with fresh or frozen chicken. Use milk for a lighter version. Leftovers reheat beautifully with a splash of broth.