Slow-Cooker Chicken & Orzo with Tomatoes & Olives

 

Ingredients (Serves four–6)

 

four boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)

1 cup orzo pasta

1 can (14 oz.) diced tomatoes

half cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 half cups low-sodium bird broth

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp dried thyme

half tsp paprika

Salt & pepper, to flavor

2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Season the chook

Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and half of the oregano and thyme. This guarantees the meat has a fragrant, Mediterranean taste.

2. Sear the chook (non-compulsory)

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-excessive warmth. Brown the chicken 2–3 mins per side. This step is non-compulsory however adds depth to the taste. Transfer to the slow cooker.

3. Combine ingredients in the sluggish cooker

Add chopped onions, minced garlic, diced tomatoes with juice, olives, bird broth, and closing herbs. Stir gently to combine flavors, making sure the chicken is in the main submerged in the liquid.

4. Slow-cook

Cover and prepare dinner on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, till the fowl is absolutely cooked and tender. The tomatoes and olives launch their flavors, creating a savory sauce.

5. Add orzo

About 20–25 minutes earlier than serving, stir in the orzo. Cover and prepare dinner until the orzo is soft and has absorbed a few broth.

6. Adjust and serve

Taste the dish and alter seasoning with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with sparkling parsley or basil for a clean, colourful contact.

 Tips & Variations

Creamy model: Stir in 1/four cup cream or Greek yogurt at the give up for a richer sauce.

Lemon twist: A squeeze of lemon juice before serving brightens the flavors.

Vegetarian alternative: Replace bird with chickpeas or sautéed vegetables.

Thick sauce: If the sauce is skinny, uncover and cook on excessive 10–15 minutes to reduce.

This gradual-cooker dish is a really perfect weeknight meal. The hen becomes soft even as the orzo soaks up the tomato-olive broth, developing a hearty, Mediterranean-stimulated dinner.