Crockpot Creamy French Onion Chicken and Orzo
A delicious and comforting dish combining French onion soup flavors with tender chicken and creamy orzo pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3-4 pieces yellow onions, thinly sliced Slice thinly for even cooking.
- 6 tablespoons salted butter 3 tablespoons reserved for broiling.
- 1.5 pounds boneless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
- to taste Kosher salt and black pepper Season to your preference.
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 cup dry white wine Use good quality for richer flavor.
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups dry orzo pasta Can substitute with other small pasta shapes.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream Can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded gruyere cheese Can substitute with cheddar or mozzarella.
Instructions
Preparation
- In the bowl of your slow cooker, layer the onions, 3 tablespoons of butter, and then the chicken.
- Sprinkle the chicken with thyme, sage, garlic, and season with salt and pepper.
- Pour over the wine and broth. Add the mushrooms.
- Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Orzo
- Preheat the broiler to high.
- Remove the chicken and most of the onions from the slow cooker and place on a baking sheet.
- Crank the heat on the slow cooker to high.
- Stir in the orzo and 1 cup of water. Cover and cook for 20-30 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente, adding more water if necessary.
- Stir in the cream and parmesan.
- Arrange 3 tablespoons of butter over the onions and top with gruyere.
- Broil for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melty.
Serving
- Spoon the creamy orzo onto a plate and top with the tender chicken and caramelized onions.
- Optionally, add a sprinkle of extra herbs or grated cheese.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage. The texture of the orzo may change upon reheating.