Name: Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or 4-6 boneless skinless chicken thighs; 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste); 3 cups low sodium chicken broth; 4 tablespoons butter, melted; 1 cup sliced mushrooms; 1 medium white or yellow onion, finely chopped; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 1½ cups orzo pasta; ½ cup shaved or finely shredded Parmesan cheese; Freshly cracked black pepper and herbs (such as thyme or parsley) for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 77 reviews

If you are looking for a comforting dish that combines ease and incredible flavor, the Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe brings together tender, juicy chicken infused with fragrant Italian herbs and creamy, buttery orzo in a way that will fill your home with inviting aromas and your table with unbeatable taste. Whether for a busy weeknight or an effortless weekend feast, this dish guarantees a crowd-pleasing meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass rectangular baking dish holds four pieces of raw chicken arranged in two rows, each row with two pieces placed side by side. The chicken pieces are light pink with some shiny parts, showing a smooth texture. The dish is placed on a wooden surface with a rough, weathered look that contrasts with the clear glass. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple yet essential ingredients come together beautifully in this recipe, each contributing their own unique flair to create a harmonious balance of flavor, texture, and color. You don’t need a long list or fancy extras to pull off this impressive dish.

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: The protein star, providing juicy tenderness and a sturdy base for the flavors to shine.
3 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided: A fragrant blend of herbs that infuses the chicken and broth with warm, Mediterranean flavors.
3 cups low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the orzo perfectly moist and adds depth without overwhelming sodium content.
1 ½ cups orzo pasta: A tiny pasta that cooks into creamy perfection, taking on all the savory juices.
4 tablespoons butter, melted: Adds luscious richness for a silky mouthfeel and boosts the overall savoriness.
1 cup sliced mushrooms: Earthy and tender, they bring wonderful texture and complement the herbs beautifully.
1 medium onion, finely chopped: Offers natural sweetness and a savory backbone to the slow-cooked broth.
2 teaspoons minced garlic: Gives a punch of aromatic zest without overpowering the dish.
1 teaspoon salt, to taste: Enhances all the flavors perfectly, balancing savory and sweet notes.
¼ teaspoon black pepper, to taste: Adds just the right touch of warmth and complexity.
½ cup shaved or finely shredded Parmesan cheese: Melts over the chicken for that signature tangy, nutty finish you crave.
Fresh herbs for garnish (thyme or parsley) and freshly cracked black pepper: For a bright, fresh finish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

How to Make Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken generously on both sides with a little Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Then heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 1-2 minutes per side. This step locks in the chicken’s juices while creating a beautiful golden crust that adds flavor and texture to every bite.

Step 2: Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Transfer your browned chicken pieces to the greased slow cooker. Next, add the chicken broth, melted butter, sliced mushrooms, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, the remaining Italian seasoning, and a pinch more salt and pepper. These ingredients will mingle slowly, allowing their flavors to deepen and marry beautifully as they cook.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Mixture

Cover your slow cooker and let the magic happen — cook on high for 1-2 hours or on low for 3-4 hours. This gentle, low-heat method tenderizes the chicken perfectly and infuses the broth with savory, herbaceous notes that bring the dish to life.

Step 4: Add the Orzo

Once the chicken has cooked through, stir in the orzo pasta. Cover again and continue cooking on high for another 30-45 minutes until the orzo is soft and has absorbed the flavorful broth. This step transforms the broth into a creamy, luscious sauce that complements the chicken impeccably.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan Cheese

Carefully pull the chicken out of the slow cooker using a fork and give the orzo mixture a good stir. Nestle the chicken back on top, then sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Cover and cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese melts and forms a glorious, savory topping that melts in your mouth.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe

Garnishes

To give your Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe that fresh, restaurant-quality touch, sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper and a handful of chopped fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley right before serving. These garnishes brighten the dish and add an extra pop of color and flavor that will make your meal look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to be served alone, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables can introduce a fresh, textural contrast that balances the richness of the orzo and chicken. A side of garlic-roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli brings vibrant greens and nutrients to the table, rounding out your meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving this recipe in individual shallow bowls so everyone can savor the creamy orzo alongside tender chicken. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a lemon wedge on the side can also elevate flavors and add an exciting layer of brightness. You can even pile some extra Parmesan cheese on top for the cheese lovers at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your delicious Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day. Plan to consume leftovers within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

If you want to save some for longer, this dish freezes well. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge for gentle, even reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the dish gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the orzo from drying out. You can also microwave individual servings, stirring every minute to ensure even warmth. Adding a small pat of butter or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan helps revive that creamy, luscious texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs actually work beautifully in the Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe. They are more forgiving with slow cooking and tend to stay juicy and flavorful, making the dish even more delicious.

Do I need to brown the chicken before slow cooking?

While it’s optional, browning the chicken first adds wonderful flavor and caramelization. It helps seal in juices and gives the dish added depth. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but you might miss that extra bit of savory richness.

Can I use instant orzo or a different pasta?

Regular orzo works best here because of its size and texture. Instant orzo might become mushy when slow cooked for too long. If desired, you can try substituting with small pastas like acini di pepe but adjust cooking times carefully.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, swap the butter for olive oil and omit or replace the Parmesan cheese with a non-dairy alternative. The dish will still be hearty and flavorful, though the characteristic creaminess will be reduced.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, doubling is possible if your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate it comfortably. Keep in mind, cooking times may increase slightly, so check the chicken for doneness before adding the orzo and continue cooking as needed.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about the Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken & Orzo Recipe. It’s a hands-off meal that fills your home with warmth and serves up rich, comforting flavors everyone will love. If you haven’t tried making this yet, I wholeheartedly encourage you to do so—your family and taste buds will thank you for it!