This slow cooker chicken and orzo soup is comforting, hearty, and full of fresh flavors—perfect for a cozy, hands-off dinner that can easily be made with leftover veggies and chicken!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Orzo Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, delicate orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth.
This hands-off recipe is perfect for busy days, allowing the slow cooker to do all the work while you go about your day. With minimal prep and wholesome ingredients, this soup is a satisfying, hearty meal that warms you from the inside out.
Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken and Orzo Soup
- Use Bone-In Chicken: For richer flavor, use bone-in chicken breasts or thighs, and remove the bones before serving.
- Add Orzo Later: To avoid mushy pasta, add the orzo during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.
- Boost Flavor: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or dill just before serving to brighten the dish.
- Make It Creamy: Add a splash of cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy twist.
- Storage Tip: If you plan to store leftovers, cook the orzo separately and add it to individual servings to maintain its texture.
This soup is a flavorful, low-maintenance option for weeknight dinners or meal prep, offering comfort and nutrition in every bowl!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Orzo Soup
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound skinless chicken breasts or thighs boneless
- 1 onion medium – diced
- 2 carrots peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks sliced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3/4 cup orzo pasta
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Add chicken, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Add the orzo pasta to the slow cooker, cover, and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
- Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
