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Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo

Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo for Cozy Nights

Enjoy a comforting Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo, featuring juicy chicken, tender orzo, and rich herbs for a family favorite meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 490
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Thighs can be used for more flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Italian Seasoning A blend of fresh herbs can be used for fresher taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to preference, especially with low sodium broth.
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground is recommended.
For the Broth
  • 4 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth Vegetable broth is a good substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Consider using olive oil for a lighter option.
For the Pasta and Veggies
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Feel free to substitute with another small pasta type.
  • 1 cup Sliced Mushrooms Diced bell peppers or zucchini can also be nice alternatives.
  • 1 medium Onion Contributes depth and sweetness.
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Fresh is best but granulated works too.
For the Finish
  • 1 cup Shaved or Finely Shredded Parmesan Cheese Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
  • to taste Fresh Herbs and Cracked Black Pepper For garnish.

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Nonstick skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sear in a skillet over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes on each side.
  2. Transfer the browned chicken to a greased slow cooker. Add the broth, melted butter, mushrooms, onions, minced garlic, additional seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cover and cook on HIGH for 1-2 hours or on LOW for 3-4 hours. Stir in orzo pasta and cook for an additional 30-45 minutes.
  4. Shred the chicken and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover and cook until the cheese melts, about 5-10 minutes.
  5. Serve the creamy orzo and chicken in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs and cracked black pepper.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 490kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 660mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Perfectly cooked chicken should shred easily. Adjust cooking times based on your chicken's tenderness and orzo doneness.

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