Tangy Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken With Orzo Recipe

Tender chicken simmering in a Mediterranean-style orzo slow cooker dish promises a delightful culinary adventure.

Aromatic herbs and rich spices dance through every bite of this comforting meal.

Mediterranean flavors meld together, creating a symphony of taste that transports you to sunny coastal regions.

Effortless preparation means minimal work with maximum deliciousness.

The combination of juicy chicken and perfectly cooked orzo ensures a satisfying dinner that everyone will love.

Hearty, wholesome, and packed with incredible Mediterranean-inspired ingredients, this recipe turns an ordinary weeknight into a gourmet experience.

You’ll want to savor every single mouthwatering spoonful.

Why This Mediterranean Chicken Is So Refreshing

• Slow cookers transform complex meals into simple, hands-off culinary experiences where you can set ingredients and walk away while delicious flavors develop.
• Packed with authentic ingredients like Italian seasoning, crushed tomatoes, and olives, this recipe delivers rich, vibrant flavors that transport your taste buds to sun-drenched coastal regions.
• One-pot preparation means minimal cleanup, making this chicken and orzo dish an ideal weeknight dinner that satisfies both adults and kids with its hearty, approachable taste profile.
• Easily adjust spice levels with red pepper flakes, swap protein options, or add extra vegetables to make this recipe uniquely yours while maintaining its core Mediterranean essence.

What You’ll Need for This Slow Cooker Chicken Dish

• Chicken: Tender chunks that form the heart of this Mediterranean-inspired slow cooker meal.

• Onion: Creates a flavorful foundation and softens during slow cooking.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Crushed Tomatoes: Provides a rich, tangy base for the sauce.
• Italian Seasoning, Red Pepper Flakes: Adds Mediterranean herbs and a subtle spicy kick.

• Orzo: Small pasta that absorbs the sauce and creates a hearty texture.
• Olives: Brings a briny, Mediterranean flavor to the dish.

How to Prepare Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Spread chopped onions across the bottom of the slow cooker.

Gently place chicken pieces on top of the onions.

Season the chicken with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile.

Step 2: Create the Sauce Layer

Pour strained crushed tomatoes over the chicken.

• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes

Softly mix the ingredients to ensure even coating.

Cover the slow cooker and set on high temperature for 2½ hours.

Keep the lid closed during cooking to maintain consistent heat and moisture.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Extras

• Orzo pasta
• Kalamata olives

Stir ingredients thoroughly to distribute evenly.

Replace lid and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.

The orzo will absorb delicious sauce and reach perfect al dente consistency.

Step 4: Finishing and Serving

Give the entire dish a final gentle stir.

Transfer to serving plates.

Complement the meal with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables for a complete Mediterranean-inspired dining experience.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Orzo and Tender Chicken

• Select sweet or yellow onions for a rich, caramelized base that enhances the overall flavor of the Mediterranean chicken.
• Stir the orzo gently and avoid lifting the lid too often to maintain consistent heat and prevent dry, mushy pasta.
• Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or oregano just before serving to add brightness and authentic Mediterranean flair.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on your heat tolerance, starting with a small amount and adding more if desired.
• Swap chicken thighs or breasts depending on your preference, ensuring even cooking and tender meat texture.

How to Reheat and Serve This Dish the Next Day

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup and maintain optimal flavor.
• Carefully pack the chicken and orzo in freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months, ensuring the meal stays fresh and tasty for future enjoyment.
• Place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent drying, and cover with a microwave-safe lid. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to distribute warmth evenly.
• Revive the dish in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to restore moisture. Stir gently and frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating, typically taking 5-7 minutes.

Pairing Ideas for a Mediterranean Dinner

• Perfectly Paired Flavors: Mediterranean Chicken Companions
• Crisp Citrus White Wine: Pair this rich chicken dish with a bright, zesty Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the tomato sauce's richness and complement the Mediterranean herbs.
• Fresh Greek Salad Sidekick: Toss together a quick cucumber, tomato, and feta salad with olive oil and oregano to add refreshing crispness that balances the warm, hearty chicken and orzo.
• Herbed Garlic Bread Boost: Bake a crusty baguette topped with garlic, parsley, and olive oil to soak up the delicious sauce and provide a crunchy texture contrast to the tender chicken.
• Tangy Tzatziki Dip: Whip up a quick yogurt-cucumber sauce with dill and garlic to serve alongside the dish, adding a cool, creamy element that elevates the Mediterranean flavors.

Ways to Change the Veggies or Seasoning

• Vegetarian Mediterranean Orzo: Replace chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a protein-packed plant-based version. Add extra vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for more texture and nutrition.
• Gluten-Free Mediterranean Delight: Swap orzo with quinoa or cauliflower rice to create a gluten-free alternative. Use gluten-free Italian seasoning to ensure complete dietary compliance.
• Spicy Mediterranean Fusion: Increase red pepper flakes and add smoked paprika for an extra kick. Include diced jalapeños or harissa paste to amplify the heat level and create a more intense flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Mediterranean Option: Substitute orzo with cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini. Choose lean chicken breast and reduce tomato sauce quantity to lower overall carbohydrate content while maintaining rich Mediterranean flavors.

FAQs

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of chunks?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts. Cut them into large pieces to ensure even cooking and prevent drying out. They’ll cook perfectly in the slow cooker’s moist environment.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The red pepper flakes add a mild kick, but you can adjust the heat by reducing or eliminating them. If you prefer no spice, simply omit the red pepper flakes altogether.

• Do I need to brown the chicken before adding to the slow cooker?

No, you can add the raw chicken directly to the slow cooker. The long, slow cooking process will make the chicken tender and flavorful without pre-browning.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute the orzo with gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free grain like quinoa or rice. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version of this Mediterranean dish.

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken With Orzo Recipe

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4.6 from 20 reviews

• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean magic unfolds as slow cooker mediterranean chicken with orzo delivers a symphony of Greek-inspired flavors. Tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and perfectly cooked orzo create a comforting meal you’ll savor with pure Mediterranean delight.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 3 large chicken breasts (cut into large chunks)
• 660 ml (23 oz) strained crushed tomatoes (tomato passata)
• 1/2 cup dried orzo
• 12–15 large olives

Aromatics and Seasonings:

• 1 large onion (peeled and quartered)
• 2 teaspoons homemade Italian seasoning (or Herbes de Provence)
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes

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Instructions

1. Prepare the slow cooker foundation by arranging onion quarters across the bottom, creating a flavorful base for the chicken. Position chicken chunks directly on top of the onions, then season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Cascade strained crushed tomatoes over the chicken, sprinkling Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes evenly. Gently mix to ensure complete sauce coverage. Secure the lid and cook on high temperature for 2½ hours without interrupting the cooking process.
3. After the initial cooking period, the chicken will be fork-tender and sauce slightly condensed. Introduce orzo and olives into the slow cooker, stirring carefully to distribute ingredients uniformly. Replace lid and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes until orzo reaches perfect tenderness.
4. Once orzo is fully cooked, thoroughly blend all components within the slow cooker. Transfer the Mediterranean-inspired chicken and orzo mixture to serving dishes, creating a vibrant and aromatic meal. Consider complementing with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables for a complete dining experience.

Notes

• Always use room temperature chicken to ensure even cooking and prevent potential bacterial growth.
• Choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a more tender and flavorful result compared to chicken breasts.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance, using less for mild preference or more for extra heat.
• For a gluten-free version, swap orzo with quinoa or cauliflower rice to maintain the Mediterranean flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg