Dinner

Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Recipe

Name: Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 h 30 min
Total time: 5 h 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups baby spinach, chopped; 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked

ByLily Monroe November 20, 2025November 20, 2025

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Introduction

Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and hearty orzo pasta. Inspired by rustic Italian flavors, this meal is both easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.

A white bowl filled with creamy chicken orzo pasta with three main layers: the base layer is soft, short orzo pasta in pale yellow color, mixed evenly throughout. The middle layer is tender, light brown chicken chunks spread thickly across the dish. The top layer consists of bright red roasted tomato pieces and dark green spinach leaves scattered generously around. All ingredients are coated in a smooth, light orange creamy sauce that blends all elements together with a rich texture. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a blurred bunch of green leaves in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 small yellow onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 cups baby spinach, chopped
1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In the slow cooker, add chicken breasts, diced onion, minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 3: Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks.
Step 4: Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, spinach, and uncooked orzo.
Step 5: Continue cooking on low for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the orzo is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or light coconut milk for a lighter version.
Add extra vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or peas for more flavor and nutrition.
Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or mozzarella to change the cheese profile.
Use gluten-free pasta, rice, or quinoa instead of orzo for a gluten-free option.
Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh chili slices to add a spicy kick.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture. This dish also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a creamy dish in a white bowl with speckled texture, featuring three main layers: chunks of golden-brown cooked chicken pieces, bright red tomato bits, and fresh dark green spinach leaves, all mixed with small, pale yellow orzo pasta coated in a rich cream sauce with visible herbs and spices, creating a textured and colorful mix. The dish is shown with a silver fork resting inside the bowl. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness. Adjust the cooking time if needed to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.

Do I need to cook the orzo before adding it to the slow cooker?

No, the orzo cooks in the slow cooker during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking. Adding it uncooked allows it to absorb all the creamy, savory flavors.