This Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo is an easy and tasty dish that’s perfect for busy days! With juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and tender orzo, it’s a true comfort meal.
Let me tell you, this dish might just earn you a marriage proposal! I love how the creamy flavors mix perfectly with the orzo. It’s like a hug on a plate! 💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great for this recipe, making it easy to get tender, juicy pieces. If you want a more flavorful option, consider using thighs instead. They stay juicy and add richness!
Orzo: Orzo is a small pasta that cooks beautifully in this dish. If you don’t have orzo, you can swap it for any small pasta like ditalini, or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes bring moisture and flavor. You can use fresh diced tomatoes instead if you have them. Just be mindful to keep the juices for a good sauce consistency.
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you could substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Both will give a nice creamy texture!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. If you’re out of fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it first to avoid excess water!
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
To achieve that rich, creamy sauce, adding heavy cream and cheese at the right time is key. Do this near the end of cooking. This ensures they mix well without overcooking. Here’s how:
- Once the orzo and chicken are properly cooked, gently stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan.
- Let it cook for an additional 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Adding the chopped spinach right after these ingredients ensures it wilts without losing its vibrant color.
Stir well before serving, taste, and adjust the seasoning for a balanced flavor. Enjoy your cozy meal! 🌿
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Main Dish:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For The Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Creamy Finish:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional, for sautéing garlic)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting dish requires roughly 10 minutes of prep time and 4 to 5 hours of slow cooking. You’ll just mix everything in the crock pot, let it do its magic, and finish it off with some creamy goodness before serving. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a slow cooker (crock pot), add the chicken pieces, uncooked orzo, diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything gently until combined.
2. Start Cooking:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and the orzo is tender. Resist the urge to peek too much; this keeps all the steam inside!
3. Add Creamy Goodness:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped spinach. Cover again and let it cook for the last 15 minutes so that the spinach wilts and the sauce turns creamy and delicious.
4. Final Touches:
Once cooking is complete, give everything a good stir to mix in the cream. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, as needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this delicious, creamy meal that might just win you a proposal! 💖
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. To thaw quickly, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour, or thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Can I Substitute the Orzo with Another Pasta?
Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo, you can use any small pasta like ditalini or even rice. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta types might need adjustments. Cook until tender!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it looks too thick.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or sautéed vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. You can also opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version!
