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Crockpot Creamy French Onion Chicken and Orzo

A comforting dish combining tender chicken, flavorful onions, mushrooms, and creamy cheeses, all made effortlessly in a slow cooker.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort food
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3-4 pieces yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 6 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1.5 pounds boneless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves Freshly chopped for better flavor
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage Freshly chopped for better flavor
  • Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 cup dry white wine Can be replaced with more broth for a non-alcoholic version
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 cups sliced mushrooms
  • 2 cups dry orzo pasta Can replace with gluten-free pasta if needed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded gruyere cheese Can swap for mozzarella or cheddar

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In the bowl of your slow cooker, layer the onions and 3 tablespoons of butter, followed by the chicken.
  2. Sprinkle the chicken with thyme, sage, garlic, and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Pour over the dry white wine and chicken or vegetable broth, then add the mushrooms.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or on high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Orzo
  1. Preheat the broiler to high.
  2. Once cooking time is up, remove the chicken and most of the onions from the slow cooker and place them on a baking sheet.
  3. Increase 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. If needed, add more water.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese.
Broiling
  1. Place the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over the onions and top with gruyere cheese.
  2. Broil for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melty and golden brown.
  3. Serve the chicken and onions over the orzo.

Notes

For the best flavor, use quality chicken and fresh herbs. Adjust the amount of garlic and seasonings to suit your taste. You can cook the orzo separately if you prefer it not to absorb too much moisture. Don't skip the broiling step; it adds a delicious crispy top!