This Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a comforting dish that features tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta all cooked together. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
I love how easy it is to throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work. Plus, it’s so delicious, you might just get a proposal! 😂
It’s a great one-pot meal that saves on cleanup. Just serve it with a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra yummy goodness — a family favorite for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps it lean, but you can substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Both options work well in a slow cooker.
Orzo: Orzo offers a nice texture, but if you don’t have it, try using any small pasta like ditalini or even rice. Adjust cooking time accordingly for rice.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes bring great flavor. If you prefer fresh, use about 2 cups of diced ripe tomatoes. They add a different freshness!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great, but frozen spinach works too. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to keep the dish from becoming too watery.
Heavy Cream: This gives creaminess, but you can replace it with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version. For a non-dairy option, try almond or oat milk with a bit of flour for thickening.
How Do I Achieve Tender, Shredded Chicken?
The key to tender chicken lies in the slow cooking process. First, ensure the chicken is evenly placed at the bottom of the crock pot for even cooking. Keep these in mind:
- Cook on low heat. This allows the chicken to become tender without drying it out.
- Check for doneness around the 3-hour mark. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it before shredding. This helps redistribute the juices for extra tenderness!
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Components:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Seasonings:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will require about 15 minutes for prep time and then 3 to 4 hours for cooking in the crock pot on low. Perfect for a busy day where you can set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. This is where the magic begins!
2. Layer the Flavor:
Next, add the can of diced tomatoes with all the juices, minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper right on top of the chicken. Don’t worry, it’ll all mingle together while it cooks!
3. Add Liquid and Pasta:
Pour in the chicken broth so everything stays nice and juicy. Now, sprinkle the uncooked orzo pasta evenly over the top of the mixture. At this point, you won’t stir—trust the process!
4. Cook It Up:
Cover the crock pot and set it to low. Let it cook for about 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and fully cooked, and the orzo pasta is nice and soft.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crock pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the shredded chicken back into the pot—yum!
6. Stir in Cream and Spinach:
Now, it’s time for the creamy goodness! Stir in the chopped spinach, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Mix everything well until the spinach wilts and the cheese is melted, making it all rich and creamy.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give it a taste and see if it needs a little extra salt or pepper. Adjust as you see fit to suit your taste buds!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up this delicious meal while it’s hot, garnishing each serving with fresh, chopped parsley. Enjoy the wonderful flavors and the cozy vibes of your Marry Me Chicken Orzo!
This creamy, flavorful one-pot meal is perfect for a hassle-free dinner with rich, comforting flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but remember to increase the cooking time by about an hour. Frozen chicken should be cooked on low for about 4 to 5 hours to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
What Can I Substitute for Orzo?
If orzo isn’t available, you can use any small pasta like ditalini or even rice. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta or rice used—rice typically requires a longer cooking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! You can add more red pepper flakes, or even incorporate some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick. Adjust according to your heat preference!
