Slow Cooker Lemon Basil Chicken With Orzo

This easy Slow Cooker Lemon Basil Chicken with Orzo is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken thighs, fresh lemon, and aromatic basil, this meal is both simple and satisfying. You can easily adjust it with common ingredients for a delicious, hearty dinner the whole family will love.

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Recipe Ingredients

2 (15-oz [425 g]) cans of chicken broth
2 tbsp (4 g) dried basil
Zest of 1 lemon
1 lemon, juiced
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper
3 tbsp (42 g) butter
2 lbs (908 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1½ cups (252 g) uncooked orzo
Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

How To Make Slow Cooker Lemon Basil Chicken With Orzo

Prepare the Broth Mixture: Stir together the chicken broth, dried basil, lemon zest and juice, salt, pepper, and butter in your 6-quart (6-L) slow cooker.
Add the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the broth mixture, cover, and cook on high for 3 hours or on low for 6 hours.
Add Orzo and Cook: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and place it onto a plate using a slotted spoon. If cooking on low, turn the slow cooker to high, stir in the orzo, and return the chicken to the slow cooker. Cover and cook for an additional 20 minutes.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, before serving.

Recipe Tips

Use fresh chicken thighs: Fresh, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best for tender, juicy meat. Frozen chicken may become tough when slow-cooked.
Stir the orzo halfway: Stirring the orzo after adding it will prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker.
Adjust lemon for more tang: If you love a stronger lemon flavor, feel free to add extra lemon zest or juice at the end of cooking.
Don’t overcook the orzo: Adding the orzo near the end of the cooking time ensures it stays tender and doesn’t turn mushy.
Garnish before serving: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and color, so don’t skip the garnish for a fresh finishing touch.

Recipe FAQs and Variations

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out more easily. Consider checking for doneness earlier.

Can I use gluten-free orzo?

Absolutely! Swap in gluten-free orzo for a gluten-free version of this dish.

What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Broth?

Vegetable broth or even water can replace chicken broth, though the flavor will be milder.

Can I add vegetables to the recipe?

Yes! Carrots, peas, or spinach are great additions to this dish. Add them in during the last 20 minutes of cooking.

Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the chicken and cook the orzo on the stovetop separately. Combine them at the end for a similar result.

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