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Slow Cooker Mustard Herb Chicken with Orzo

Slow Cooker Mustard Herb Chicken with Orzo
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Slow Cooker Mustard Herb Chicken with Orzo is a cozy, fuss-free dinner combining tender chicken thighs infused with tangy Dijon mustard and fresh herbs, slow-cooked to perfection alongside creamy orzo pasta. This one-pot meal offers a flavorful, comforting experience with minimal prep and cleanup, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 4–6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Liquids and Pasta

  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then coat generously with Dijon mustard. You can let the mustard marinate for a few minutes to enhance flavor or move directly to the next step.
  2. Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Place the chopped onions and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay the mustard-coated chicken thighs on top, then pour in the chicken broth. Evenly scatter fresh rosemary and thyme over the chicken, sealing in aromatic flavors as it cooks.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 4 to 5 hours, until the chicken is tender and falling apart, allowing it to absorb deep herb and mustard flavors.
  4. Add Orzo: Stir the orzo into the slow cooker broth once the chicken is cooked. Push the orzo beneath the liquid to submerge, cover again, and cook for an additional 20 to 30 minutes or until the orzo is creamy and tender.
  5. Final Touches: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Stir gently to combine all flavors, then serve hot for a comforting, fragrant meal.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for moist, tender meat ideal for slow cooking; chicken breasts can be substituted but may require shorter cooking time to prevent drying out.
  • Add orzo late in cooking to avoid mushy pasta.
  • Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme provide superior flavor over dried; if using dried herbs substitute about one-third the amount.
  • Layer onions and garlic at the bottom to infuse the broth with savory depth.
  • Adjust the broth quantity to ensure pasta cooks without the dish becoming too watery.
  • Optional additions include chopped carrots, spinach, or mushrooms added in the last hour for extra nutrition and color.
  • For a richer texture, stir in a splash of cream or grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
  • For gluten-free, substitute orzo with gluten-free small pasta or quinoa.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, mustard herb chicken, orzo recipe, one pot meal, cozy dinner, easy slow cooker recipe, creamy orzo chicken

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/slow-cooker-mustard-herb-chicken-with-orzo/