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Crockpot Chicken Orzo

Crockpot Chicken Orzo Recipe

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 6 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 580
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • Salt and black pepper
  • 1 cup dried orzo pasta
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups packed baby spinach
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 lemon, zest and juice

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Layer the thighs, onion, garlic, and thyme in the slow cooker, then pour in the broth. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours until the chicken is fork-tender.
  2. Transfer the chicken to a board, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  3. Turn the slow cooker to high. Stir in the orzo and cream cheese. Cover and cook on high for 20 to 25 minutes, until the orzo is tender. Add the spinach and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  4. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and parmesan. Taste and adjust seasoning. Spoon into bowls and serve immediately.

Notes

For the best texture, serve the orzo right after adding the lemon and parmesan while the sauce is still loose. Leftovers will thicken as they cool, so add a little broth when reheating to loosen them up. If you prefer the high setting from the start, cook the chicken on high for 3 hours instead of low.