Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

I absolutely love this Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo—tender chicken, silky sauce, sun‑dried tomatoes, and spinach mingle with delicate orzo for a comforting, hands‑off meal that practically cooks itself.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore how simple yet impressive this dish is: I just toss everything into the slow cooker, and when I return hours later, I have a creamy, restaurant‑worthy meal with minimal effort. The tang of sun‑dried tomatoes and richness from Parmesan and cream elevate everyday chicken and pasta into something special. Plus, the whole thing comes together in one pot—fewer dishes and more flavor!

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• Orzo pasta

• Olive oil or butter

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Sun‑dried tomatoes (packed in oil or dry, rehydrated)

• Baby spinach or kale

• Chicken broth or stock

• Heavy cream or half‑and‑half

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Italian seasoning (or oregano, basil)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Directions

1. I start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then place the pieces in the slow cooker.

2. I sprinkle minced garlic, chopped sun‑dried tomatoes, and a handful of spinach or kale around the chicken.

3. I pour in chicken broth, making sure the liquid almost covers the chicken.

4. I cover and cook on low for about 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreddable.

5. I remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, then return it to the slow cooker.

6. I stir in uncooked orzo, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan, cover again, and cook on high for another 20–30 minutes—until the orzo is tender and creamy.

7. I taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or Italian herbs as needed.

8. I stir in a bit more spinach if I like an extra green pop, then serve straight from the slow cooker.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people, depending on portion sizes. Prep time is only about 10 minutes, the slow cooker phase takes 4–6 hours on low (or 2–3 on high), and the orzo addition is about 20–30 minutes—so total time is roughly 4 ¼–6½ hours (though most is hands-off).

Variations

• I sometimes swap chicken thighs for breasts—they stay juicier and more flavorful.

• I use coconut milk instead of cream for a lighter or dairy-free twist.

• I’ll add sliced mushrooms or artichoke hearts during the final orzo phase for extra flavor.

• For a smoky twist, I add a few strips of chopped bacon at the beginning.

• I occasionally sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a bright finish.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, I gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce. In the microwave, I heat in 1-minute increments, stirring between to keep it creamy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes—I place chicken frozen in the slow cooker and just extend the cooking time by about 1–2 hours on low or an hour on high.

Is this gluten‑free?

To make it gluten‑free, I swap the orzo for a gluten‑free pasta or rice, and ensure the broth I use is gluten‑free as well.

Can I prep everything ahead of time?

I often assemble ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, refrigerate, then cook the next day for maximum convenience.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

I stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) along with the cream, and let it cook for a few more minutes for a thicker consistency.

Can I make individual servings?

Yes—I prepare and freeze in individual mason jars or freezer bags. When I’m ready, I thaw and reheat, finishing with a quick microwave or simmer on the stove.

Conclusion

I adore how this Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo brings together creamy sauce, tender chicken, and bright flavors in one easy pot. It’s a perfect blend of comfort and elegance, making busy weekday dinners feel special with minimal effort. I hope it becomes a regular feature in your kitchen too!