Slow Cooker Mustard Herb Chicken with Orzo

Discover a flavorful, hassle-free dinner with Slow Cooker Mustard Herb Chicken with Orzo – tender, savory, and ready when you are! This comforting one-pot meal combines juicy chicken thighs, aromatic herbs, tangy mustard, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta for a delightful dinner experience. Whether you’re a weeknight warrior or a slow cooker enthusiast, this recipe brings warmth and simplicity right to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Meal Prep: Just combine the ingredients and let your slow cooker do the magic, saving you precious time in the kitchen.
• Rich and Savory Flavors: Mustard and fresh herbs create a tangy and fragrant base that makes the chicken irresistibly tasty.
• One-Pot Convenience: Everything cooks together, meaning fewer dishes to wash and more time to enjoy your meal.
• Perfectly Tender Chicken: Slow cooking ensures the chicken thighs melt in your mouth, infused with all those wonderful herb and mustard juices.
• Comforting Yet Light: Orzo adds a lovely texture without weighing down the dish, balancing hearty and fresh flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Slow Cooker Mustard Herb Chicken with Orzo is its simplicity – each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color for a deliciously balanced dish.

• Chicken Thighs: Choose bone-in for extra juiciness and flavor, but boneless works too for convenience.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth that complements the herbs beautifully.
• Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced for that aromatic punch that elevates the dish.
• Fresh Herbs: A mix of thyme, rosemary, and parsley bring vibrant, earthy notes and a pop of green.
• Chicken Broth: Keeps everything moist and infuses the orzo with savory goodness.
• Orzo Pasta: Small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks perfectly in the slow cooker without becoming mushy.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding richness.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when caramelized slightly.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.

Variations for Slow Cooker Mustard Herb Chicken with Orzo

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences easily. Whether you want to switch up herbs, protein, or add vegetables, this slow cooker dish is incredibly adaptable.

• Protein Swap: Use chicken breasts or turkey thighs if you prefer leaner options or different textures.
• Herb Mix: Try basil, oregano, or dill instead of thyme and rosemary for unique flavor profiles.
• Vegetable Boost: Add chopped carrots, spinach, or mushrooms halfway through cooking for added nutrition and texture.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a subtle heat.
• Dairy Creaminess: Stir in some cream cheese or Greek yogurt at the end for a richer, creamier finish.

How to Make Slow Cooker Mustard Herb Chicken with Orzo

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Aromatics

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil and lightly brown the chicken on both sides for 3-4 minutes each. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Place the browned chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Add the sautéed onions and garlic, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, fresh herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently to mix the mustard and broth evenly.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours. This slow method allows the chicken to become tender and infused with the herb-mustard flavor.

Step 4: Add Orzo and Finish Cooking

After 4 hours, stir in the dry orzo pasta and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour until the orzo is tender and has absorbed the sauce.

Step 5: Final Touches

Check seasoning and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a burst of color and freshness.

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Mustard Herb Chicken with Orzo

• Brown the Chicken: Searing intensifies flavor and creates a beautiful color on the chicken.
• Use Bone-in Thighs: They stay juicy and don’t dry out during slow cooking.
• Don’t Skip Sautéing Aromatics: This step adds a deeper, more complex flavor base.
• Stir When Adding Orzo: Avoid clumps and ensure the pasta cooks evenly.
• Opt for Low and Slow Cooking: Helps the meat become tender without overcooking the pasta.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Mustard Herb Chicken with Orzo

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest adds brightness and a pop of green, making the dish more visually appealing and flavorful.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to balance the creamy richness of the chicken and orzo.

Creative Ways to Present

Plate the chicken atop a bed of the orzo for a rustic look, or serve the orzo in individual bowls with the shredded chicken on top to keep the textures distinct and appealing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the orzo has absorbed too much liquid and become thick.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can! Keep an eye on cooking times as chicken breasts tend to cook faster and can dry out, so reduce slow cooking time accordingly.

Is it okay to add the orzo at the beginning?

It’s best to add orzo later to avoid overcooking and mushiness; adding it in the last hour ensures tender but firm pasta.

What kind of mustard works best?

Dijon mustard offers a smooth, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with herbs and chicken, but whole grain mustard can add a nice texture and subtle spice.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated; adjust to taste as the dish cooks.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Orzo is made from wheat, so for gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free pasta or rice, which can be added similarly toward the end of cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Mustard Herb Chicken with Orzo is a true weeknight hero, delivering warmth, flavor, and ease all in one pot. Once you try it, you’ll have a new favorite to turn to whenever you crave a comforting, home-cooked meal without the fuss. Don’t wait—slow cook your way to dinner bliss tonight!

Related Posts

• Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers
• Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
• Air Fryer Ham Cheese Sticks

Print