Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Nothing feels quite as comforting as a bowl of creamy Tuscan chicken orzo gently simmering in the slow cooker filling the kitchen with savory aromas This recipe takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a restaurant worthy one pot dinner that is both convenient and luscious making it a dream meal for chilly evenings or bustling workdays

The first time I made this recipe I was shocked at how creamy and flavorful it turned out with almost no effort Since then this dish has become my go to solution when I want something that tastes like it took all day but is actually stress free

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: these soak up all the flavor and become wonderfully tender Use organic if possible for the best taste
• Orzo pasta uncooked: this brings a soft creamy texture to the dish Look for high quality bronze cut orzo for richness
• Low sodium chicken broth: the base for all the savory flavor and keeps everything moist Choose a good brand for depth of flavor
• Heavy cream: this is what makes the orzo rich and silky Use fresh cream and avoid ultra pasteurized if possible
• Sun dried tomatoes drained and chopped: for bursts of tangy sweet flavor Seek out tomatoes packed in oil for extra richness
• Fresh spinach roughly chopped: brightens up the dish and adds nutrition Choose crisp leaves without any wilting
• Grated Parmesan cheese: for a nutty creamy finish Get a good quality block and grate it fresh for the best results
• Yellow onion diced: builds a sweet and aromatic flavor foundation Make sure it is firm and fragrant
• Garlic minced: gives classic Tuscan aroma and depth Fresh garlic cloves are best
• Italian seasoning: a balanced combo of dried herbs gives the signature taste Look for a mix with rosemary oregano and basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste: brings everything together Freshly cracked black pepper adds the most flavor
• Olive oil: helps sear the chicken and adds richness Always use extra virgin olive oil with a green fruity aroma

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Pat chicken breasts or thighs dry and season generously with salt black pepper and Italian seasoning on all sides to infuse them right from the start

Sear the Chicken:

Pour olive oil into a skillet and heat over medium Don't rush this step When hot add chicken and cook about three minutes on each side until the surface is golden This locks in juices and starts flavor development

Transfer to Slow Cooker:

Place the golden seared chicken at the bottom of your slow cooker to prepare it for even braising

Add Flavor Builders:

Scatter diced onion minced garlic and chopped sun dried tomatoes over the chicken Pour in chicken broth Cover with the lid

Slow Cook Until Tender:

Set the slow cooker on low for four to five hours or high for two to three hours This time allows the chicken to become fork tender and allows all the flavors to meld

Prep and Return the Chicken:

Carefully remove chicken from the cooker Use two forks to shred or slice into bite sized pieces Place chicken back in so it soaks up all the juices

Add Orzo and Cream:

Pour in the uncooked orzo and heavy cream Give it a good stir to ensure the pasta is well submerged and coated

Cook Until Orzo Is Tender:

Cover again and cook on high for twenty to thirty minutes Stir gently once or twice to prevent sticking The orzo is ready when plump and creamy

Finish With Greens and Cheese:

Add the chopped spinach and Parmesan cheese Stir until spinach wilts and cheese melts giving a creamy finish Taste and adjust seasoning if needed

Serve:

Ladle hot creamy chicken orzo into bowls Top with extra Parmesan if you love cheese Serve with rustic bread or a crisp salad

Pin

What I love most about this recipe is what the sun dried tomatoes bring every bite is tangy and deep with flavor I remember the first time my little one asked for seconds The family was so quiet around the table except for happy slurping

Storage Tips

To store leftovers let the dish cool completely then spoon into airtight containers It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days If you prefer to freeze it do so before adding spinach and Parmesan as the greens freeze better raw

Ingredient Substitutions

No orzo on hand Small shapes like ditalini or pearl couscous can work just as well Swap heavy cream for half and half if you want to lighten things up or use rotisserie chicken for an even speedier meal

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy Tuscan creation with warm crusty bread for dipping or a peppery arugula salad on the side If you want to add a pop of acidity try squeezing a bit of fresh lemon over each bowl

Pin

Tuscan Roots in Every Bite

Tuscan food is all about rustic flavor plenty of fresh herbs tender meats and slow simmered comfort This dish takes its inspiration from the earthy homespun cuisine I first learned about while traveling in Italy where slow cooked meals are always a sign of love

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of chicken works best for this dish?

Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well, with thighs offering more moistness due to higher fat content.

→ Can I use regular pasta instead of orzo?

Orzo is preferred for its small size and ability to absorb liquid, but small pasta shapes like acini di pepe can be alternatives; adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ How do I prevent the orzo from sticking during cooking?

Stir the orzo occasionally in the slow cooker when added and monitor liquid levels, adding broth or cream if it becomes too thick.

→ Is sun-dried tomato necessary for the flavor profile?

Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness and depth, but finely chopped roasted red peppers could be used as a milder substitute.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, it holds well refrigerated for a couple of days and flavors often deepen after resting. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.