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Creamy Crockpot Chicken with Gruyère and Orzo Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 67 reviews
  • Author: Mariam
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 hours (6-8 hours on low + 15-20 minutes on high)
  • Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Creamy Crockpot Chicken with Gruyere and Orzo Bliss is a comforting slow-cooked dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a savory broth infused with garlic, onion, and thyme. Enriched with rich heavy cream and nutty Gruyere cheese, this recipe blends creamy textures with delightful herbaceous flavors. The addition of orzo pasta creates a pleasing, chewy contrast that transforms this meal into a fulfilling, one-pot delight perfect for an easy, hearty dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Broth

  • 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 4 cups chicken broth

Dairy

  • 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme

Pantry

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper


Instructions

  1. Prepare Chicken: Start by placing the boneless chicken breasts into your slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly spread out for maximum flavor absorption.
  2. Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth over the chicken, allowing it to soak up all that savory goodness while you prepare the other ingredients.
  3. Add Garlic: Take your fresh garlic cloves and chop them finely. Sprinkle them over the chicken for a delightful aromatic boost.
  4. Add Onion: Cut the onion into small pieces and add it to the mix, enhancing the depth and sweetness of your dish.
  5. Season: Sprinkle in dried thyme, salt, and black pepper, giving your meal a lovely herbaceous touch that complements the rich flavors.
  6. Slow Cook: Cover your crockpot and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours until the chicken is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
  7. Add Cream and Cheese: Once cooking is complete, mix in the heavy cream and shredded Gruyere cheese until melted and creamy, integrating the rich flavors smoothly.
  8. Cook Orzo: Gently stir in the orzo pasta, cover again, and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until the orzo is chewy and cooked through.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness before serving.

Notes

  • Substitute orzo with rice for a different texture if preferred.
  • Adjust salt and pepper to taste depending on dietary needs.
  • Gruyere cheese melting adds a nutty flavor but can be swapped with mozzarella or cheddar if desired.
  • Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before adding orzo to avoid undercooked poultry.
  • Slow cooker times may vary; check tenderness after 6 hours to prevent overcooking.