Name: Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488458H50M15S
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, cut into small cubes); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper (to taste); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 small onion (diced); 1 cup sun dried tomatoes (chopped, not in oil); 1 cup fresh spinach (roughly chopped); ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1 cup orzo pasta

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a comforting, flavorful, and effortlessly delicious meal, look no further than the Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo. This dish brings together tender chunks of seasoned chicken, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and cheesy Parmesan all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce. The orzo pasta soaks up all those rich, Tuscan-inspired flavors, making each bite a perfect harmony of taste and texture. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for a satisfying and impressive meal with minimal fuss.

Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo lies in its simple yet thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each component plays a role in building the layers of taste, texture, and color, ensuring the dish comes out vibrant and full of personality every time.

Chicken breasts (2, boneless and skinless, cut into small cubes): Tender and versatile, chicken soaks up the flavors beautifully in the slow cooker.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Brings a fragrant Mediterranean herb blend that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon): Provides just a hint of heat to wake up the palate without overpowering the dish.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the other flavors.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Offers a savory punch that infuses the sauce with its deep aroma.
Onion (1 small, diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and texture contrast.
Sun-dried tomatoes (1 cup, chopped, not in oil): Intense, slightly tangy bursts of flavor brighten the creamy base.
Chicken broth (½ cup, low sodium): Provides moisture and a rich, savory depth without overwhelming saltiness.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Gives the sauce its signature silky, indulgent texture.
Fresh spinach (1 cup, roughly chopped): Adds color, nutrition, and a fresh counterbalance to the creaminess.
Orzo pasta (1 cup): Small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks into the sauce, adding heartiness and a satisfying bite.
Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Melts into the sauce for sharp, nutty richness and helps thicken the dish.

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Begin by placing your cubed chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle the chicken evenly with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. These seasonings build a savory, herb-infused foundation that sets the stage for the rest of the dish’s layers of flavor, giving the chicken a delightful aromatic boost as it cooks.

Step 2: Add Garlic, Onion, and Tomatoes

Next, scatter the minced garlic and diced onion over the seasoned chicken. These ingredients will mellow and sweeten beautifully during the slow cooking process. Then add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes—they bring concentrated flavor and a pleasant tang that adds brightness and complexity to the creaminess we’re aiming for.

Step 3: Pour in the Chicken Broth and Cook

Gently pour the low sodium chicken broth over the mixture in the slow cooker. This broth will keep your chicken moist and infuse the dish with savory notes as everything simmers together. Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 2 to 3 hours, or on high for 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your schedule. This slow and steady cooking ensures the chicken becomes wonderfully tender and the flavors meld perfectly.

Step 4: Add Heavy Cream and Orzo for Creaminess

When the chicken is nearly cooked through, it’s time to add the heavy cream and orzo pasta. Stir them into the slow cooker and continue cooking on low for another 20 to 30 minutes. During this time, the orzo absorbs the creamy sauce and swells into tender, delightful bites, making the dish comforting and hearty without feeling heavy.

Step 5: Stir in Spinach and Parmesan

The final flourish involves stirring in fresh chopped spinach and the Parmesan cheese. The spinach wilts quickly in the warm sauce, giving you a pop of vibrant green and a touch of earthiness. The Parmesan melds in to thicken and enrich the sauce, adding a perfect savory punch that ties all the flavors beautifully together.

Step 6: Adjust Seasonings and Serve

Give everything a good stir, taste, and adjust your salt and pepper if needed. Serve the Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo hot, and prepare to delight in this creamy, flavorful, comforting bowl of pure joy.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Garnishes

To take your presentation up a notch, consider sprinkling some extra freshly grated Parmesan on top or adding a few torn fresh basil leaves for an herbal note that pops against the creamy sauce. A drizzle of good quality olive oil can also add a subtle richness and shimmer to each plate.

Side Dishes

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to add something on the side, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, also bring complementary texture and flavor balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo in rustic shallow bowls to show off the creamy sauce and colorful ingredients. For a crowd, consider plating it in individual ramekins or even layered in glass bowls to highlight the vibrant layers of chicken, spinach, and tomatoes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo tastes wonderful the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even further, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners during your busy week.

Freezing

Because of the dairy and pasta, freezing this dish isn’t ideal as the texture may change once thawed. If you do freeze it, be sure to cool completely, store in a freezer-safe container, and consume within one month. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Reheat the leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Microwaving is convenient too—heat in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warming. This keeps the Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo luscious and prevents the sauce from breaking.

FAQs

Can I use thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and bring a slightly richer flavor due to their higher fat content. They also tend to stay juicy during slow cooking.

Can I substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option?

You can try using half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce won’t be as thick and creamy. To maintain texture, you might add a small amount of flour or cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce after cooking.

How do I prevent the orzo from becoming mushy?

Adding the orzo toward the end of cooking and monitoring it closely is key. Cooking for 20 to 30 minutes usually gives tender but firm pasta. Avoid overcooking by checking frequently once the orzo is added.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes! You can start by sautéing the chicken, garlic, and onions in a large skillet, then simmer with broth and sun-dried tomatoes. Add cream and orzo last and cook until orzo is tender. It takes less time but requires more hands-on attention.

What can I add for extra veggies?

Feel free to toss in mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini chunks along with the onions and tomatoes to boost nutrition and flavor diversity. Just be mindful of cooking times for different vegetables.

Final Thoughts

The Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a true celebration of comfort food elevated with Tuscan flair—easy to prep, rich in flavor, and ready to warm your heart and satisfy your appetite. Give it a try; I promise it will quickly become one of your favorite recipes to pull out when you want something special without the fuss. Cozy up with a bowl and enjoy all the creamy goodness!

Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 20 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a comforting, flavorful one-pot meal featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese, served over delicate orzo pasta. Perfect for an easy dinner with minimal prep, this dish combines Italian-inspired flavors with the convenience of slow cooking.

Instructions

Season the Chicken: Place the cubed chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Add Garlic, Onion, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Scatter the minced garlic and diced onion over the seasoned chicken. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top to infuse the dish with a rich, tangy sweetness.
Pour in Chicken Broth: Gently pour the low sodium chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. This will help create the base for the creamy sauce and keep the chicken moist during cooking.
Cook Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours or on high for 1 to 1.5 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Add Cream and Orzo: When chicken is almost done, stir in the heavy cream and orzo pasta. Cover and continue cooking on low for an additional 20 to 30 minutes until the orzo is tender and has absorbed some of the sauce.
Stir in Spinach and Parmesan: Mix in the chopped fresh spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the creamy sauce, adding layers of flavor and richness.
Adjust and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. Serve the creamy Tuscan chicken orzo hot and enjoy a comforting Italian-inspired meal.

Notes

You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer darker meat, which may add extra tenderness and flavor.
Use sun-dried tomatoes not packed in oil to avoid excess grease in the slow cooker.
If the sauce is too thick after cooking, stir in a little more chicken broth or cream to reach desired consistency.
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
If you want a gluten-free version, replace orzo with a gluten-free small pasta alternative or omit it and serve the chicken over rice or cauliflower rice.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2.5 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Italian