Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo delivers tender chicken, orzo pasta, and vibrant Tuscan flavors in one easy pot. This hands-off recipe simmers all day for a creamy, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.​

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Tuscan chicken orzo combines sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Parmesan in a rich sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. The slow cooker handles everything, freeing you for your day while aromas build. Families rave about its simplicity and taste, with options for gluten-free or lighter versions.​

Ingredients

Gather these pantry staples for 6 servings. Prep time takes just 10 minutes.

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs	1.5 lbs, cubed	Thighs stay juicier; breasts cook faster.
Italian seasoning	2 tsp	Blend of basil, oregano, rosemary.
Garlic cloves, minced	4	Or 1 tsp garlic powder.
Onion, diced	1 small	Yellow or white for sweetness.
Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped	1 cup	Oil-packed, drained, for bold flavor.
Low-sodium chicken broth	1.5 cups	Vegetable broth for lighter taste.
Heavy cream	1 cup	Half-and-half for less richness.
Dry orzo pasta	1 cup	Gluten-free orzo works perfectly.
Fresh baby spinach	3 cups	Adds color and nutrition.
Parmesan cheese, grated	1 cup	Freshly grated melts best.
Salt and black pepper	To taste	Red pepper flakes optional for heat.
Fresh basil, chopped	1/4 cup	For garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these numbered steps for foolproof results. Total cook time: 4-5 hours on low.

1. Prep the chicken: Place cubed chicken in a 6-quart slow cooker. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and half the minced garlic. Toss to coat evenly.​
2. Add aromatics: Scatter diced onion, remaining garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes over the chicken.​
3. Pour in broth: Add chicken broth slowly to avoid washing off seasonings. Cover and cook on low for 2.5-3 hours, until chicken reaches 165°F internally.​
4. Stir in orzo and cream: Mix in orzo and heavy cream. Cover and cook on low for 20-30 more minutes, stirring halfway. Orzo should be al dente; check at 20 minutes to prevent mushiness.​
5. Wilt the spinach: Stir in spinach and Parmesan. Cover 5 minutes until spinach wilts and cheese melts into a creamy sauce. Add a splash of broth if too thick.​
6. Finish and serve: Taste; adjust salt or pepper. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve hot in bowls.​

Equipment Needed: 6-quart slow cooker (like Crock-Pot programmable model).​

Expert Tips for Perfection

• Sear chicken in a skillet first for deeper flavor, then transfer to slow cooker.
• Use fresh spinach over frozen to avoid watery sauce.
• Grate Parmesan block yourself; pre-grated has anti-caking agents that affect melt.
• For low-carb, swap orzo with cauliflower rice added in last 10 minutes.
• Stretch leftovers: Thin reheated sauce with broth for soup-like consistency.
• Make ahead: Prep ingredients night before, store in fridge, dump in morning.​

Variations

Customize to your needs.

• Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free orzo or rice.
• Dairy-free: Coconut cream and vegan Parmesan.
• Keto/low-carb: Omit orzo; serve over zucchini noodles.
• Extra veggies: Stir in mushrooms or artichokes with onions.
• Instant Pot: Same ingredients; sear on sauté, pressure cook 4 minutes high, quick release, then add orzo/cream.​

Serving Suggestions

This dish stands alone but pairs beautifully.

• Garlic bread or crusty sourdough to mop up sauce.
• Simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Roasted asparagus or broccoli for crunch.

Side Dish	Prep Time	Why It Pairs Well
Garlic Bread	10 min	Soaks up creamy sauce.
Caesar Salad	15 min	Crisp contrast to richness.
Roasted Veggies	25 min	Boosts nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

• Fridge: Cool completely, store airtight up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Portion without orzo up to 2 months; orzo may mush when thawed.
• Reheat: Stovetop or microwave with added broth/milk to loosen. Warm gently to prevent cream separation.​

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values; calculate your own for precision.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450
Protein	32g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	22g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	4g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?
Thaw first for even cooking and better seasoning absorption.​

Why is my orzo mushy?
Add it late and check early; overcooking in liquid causes breakdown.​

Chicken thighs or breasts?
Thighs for moisture; breasts for leaner protein. Both cube easily.​

High vs. low setting?
Low yields tender results; high works in 2 hours total but risks dryness.​

Make it spicier?
Add 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes with seasonings.​

Vegan version?
Tofu cubes, vegetable broth, coconut cream, nutritional yeast.​

How many servings?
6 hearty bowls; doubles easily for crowds.​

This recipe brings restaurant-quality Tuscan comfort home effortlessly. Enjoy the rave reviews!​

Print