Crockpot Creamy French Onion Chicken and Orzo Recipe

Are you looking for a delightful, hassle-free meal that combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with a hearty chicken dish? Look no further! This Crockpot Creamy French Onion Chicken and Orzo recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Perfectly cooked chicken, tender orzo, and a creamy sauce create a flavorful and comforting dish. Let’s dive into how to make it!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 packet French onion soup mix
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Orzo:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups water or broth (for cooking orzo)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Slice the onion and measure out your liquids. This will make the cooking process smoother and faster.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken (Optional)

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear each chicken breast for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step adds depth to the flavor of the chicken but can be skipped for a quicker preparation.

Step 3: Assemble in the Crockpot

Place the sliced onions at the bottom of the Crockpot. Add the seared chicken breasts on top. In a bowl, mix the beef broth, heavy cream, French onion soup mix, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the Crockpot.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked (internal temperature of at least 165°F). The aroma will fill your kitchen, tantalizing your taste buds!

Step 5: Cook the Orzo

About 20 minutes before serving, prepare the orzo. In a separate pot, bring 2 cups of water or broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the Crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the Crockpot and stir it into the creamy sauce. Gently fold in the cooked orzo until well combined.

Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy

Scoop the creamy French onion chicken and orzo onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this dish!

Tips for Success

• Make It Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it a day in advance and let it sit in the fridge overnight before cooking.
• Add Vegetables: Boost the nutrition by tossing in some veggies such as spinach or peas during the last hour of cooking.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Creamy French Onion Chicken and Orzo recipe is not just easy to make, but it also brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a winning choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors!