Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo

This slow cooker Mediterranean chicken and orzo brings chicken, vegetables and pasta together in one easy dinner. Kalamata olives, marinated artichokes, tomatoes and Italian herbs build savory flavor, while spinach and orzo finish cooking right in the slow cooker.

Add optional feta and fresh parsley before serving. Dr. J’s dried Italian seasoning blend is included in the recipe notes.

Dr. J’s Kitchen

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo

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Tender chicken, orzo and spinach cook with tomatoes, Kalamata olives and marinated artichoke hearts for a flavorful Mediterranean-style slow cooker dinner.

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Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients

  

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• 4–6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup orzo
• 1 medium onion sliced
• ¾ cup Kalamata olives halved
• 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes include juice
• 1 7.75–8-ounce jar quartered marinated artichoke hearts include juice
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 5-ounce package fresh spinach
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning Dr. J’s recipe is included in the notes, or use your favorite
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon dried red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to season chicken
• ground black pepper to season chicken
• feta crumbles optional topping
• fresh parsley chopped; optional topping

Equipment

• 10-quart slow cooker
• Cutting board and knife
• measuring cups and spoons

Method

 

1. Add the sliced onion, Kalamata olives, diced tomatoes with their juice, artichoke hearts with their juice, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt and red pepper flakes to the slow cooker insert. Stir to combine.
2. Nestle the chicken breasts into the slow cooker mixture. Season the tops with additional kosher salt and ground black pepper, then cover.
3. Cook on Low for 3 hours or on High for 1½ hours. During the final 45 minutes on Low, or final 20 minutes on High, remove the chicken to a plate. Stir the orzo and spinach into the slow cooker mixture.
4. Return the chicken to the slow cooker, cover and cook for the remaining time, until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve with optional feta crumbles and chopped fresh parsley.

Video

Notes

Dr. J’s Dried Italian Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons dried basil
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary

Mix together and store in an airtight container.

Timing note: Add the orzo and spinach during the final 45 minutes on Low or final 20 minutes on High.

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Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo

Tips for slow cooker Mediterranean chicken and orzo

Add the orzo and spinach near the end of cooking so the pasta stays tender: during the final 45 minutes on Low or the final 20 minutes on High. Remove the chicken briefly while you stir them into the slow cooker, then return the chicken to finish cooking.

Use the juice from both the diced tomatoes and marinated artichokes; it goes into the slow cooker along with the broth. Finish each serving with optional feta crumbles and chopped parsley.

Frequently asked questions

When should I add the orzo and spinach?
Add both during the final 45 minutes if cooking on Low, or the final 20 minutes if cooking on High. This is the timing in Dr. J’s recipe.

Can I cook this on High instead of Low?
Yes. The recipe gives both settings: cook for 3 hours on Low or 1½ hours on High, adding the orzo and spinach during the final 45 or 20 minutes, respectively.

What goes on top when serving?
Feta crumbles and chopped fresh parsley are optional toppings.

Products used

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. These links may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Magic Mill 10-Quart Slow Cooker

Pyrex 4-Cup Glass Measuring Cup

Silicone Utensil Set

Organic Garlic Paste