Slow-Cooked Lemon Chicken Orzo

This Slow-Cooked Lemon Chicken Orzo is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a deliciously light yet satisfying meal. The lemon adds a bright and refreshing note, while the orzo provides a comforting, creamy texture. This recipe is perfect for a busy day when you want a wholesome, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete and delightful dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 cup celery, sliced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant. Transfer the onions and garlic to the slow cooker.
2. Add the Vegetables and Chicken: Place the sliced carrots and celery in the slow cooker. Lay the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried thyme.
3. Add the Broth and Lemon: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables. Add the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Cook the Orzo: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the orzo pasta. Cover and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed some of the broth.
5. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
6. Finish and Serve: Stir in the chopped parsley and, if using, grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve the Slow-Cooked Lemon Chicken Orzo hot, garnished with additional parsley and a lemon wedge if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Slow-Cooked Lemon Chicken Orzo!