Slow Cooker Enchilada Orzo

Slow Cooker Enchilada Orzo is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Hearty and satisfying, it’s the ideal weeknight dinner for busy families. One serving of this casserole is easily a complete meal—especially with the addition of extra shredded cooked chicken. While it’s already a favorite, you can customize it to suit your tastes and make it an even bigger hit at home.

It all began on a rainy Saturday and you probably know the type of day—where the couch feels magnetic while cooking seems like a chore so I just stood there staring at the fridge because I was hoping it would whisper a dinner idea .

Then I suddenly remembered this Slow Cooker Enchilada Orzo which turned out to be a total lifesaver since it’s one of those meals where you simply dump everything in then give it a stir and just forget about it because the flavors come together into cheesy and spicy and saucy goodness with a sneaky comfort-food twist.

I forgot to stir it halfway through and it ended up with a crispy layer at the bottom which I kind of loved because it added a crunchy surprise.
Now have you ever tried mixing enchiladas and pasta before It might sound a bit weird but trust me, this combo absolutely slaps.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups uncooked orzo pasta
• 1 package taco seasoning, divided
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1½ cups orzo
• 2 cups enchilada sauce mild or spicy, your choice
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup diced onion
• 1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
• 1 can corn kernels drained

Optional

• 1 cup shredded cooked chicken optional
• Sour cream optional, for serving

How to Make Slow Cooker Enchilada Orzo

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until the chicken is golden brown After cutting it into small pieces, in case you want to add chicken . Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2

Pour in the enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, broth, cumin, and chili powder. Stir everything together well.
Add the orzo pasta and stir again to make sure it’s all mixed.
Reduce to medium heat and simmer until the pasta is tender
Stir in cooked chicken, black beans, corn kernels, and sour cream

Step 3

Cover the slow cooker and set it on LOW for about 1 ½ to 2 hours. Check after 1 ½ hours to see if the orzo is tender.
Once the orzo is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the shredded cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and creamy.
Serve hot, topped with sour cream and fresh cilantro or green onions if you like

Kitchen Equipment Needed :

• Slow cooker
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Small knife and cutting board if adding chicken and fresh veggies or garnishes
• Cheese grater if shredding your own cheese

Recipes Tips

Check the orzo at the 1 ½ hour mark — overcooking can make it mushy.

Stir in cooked shredded chicken or ground beef for a meaty version

Top with crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch!

What to Eat with Slow Cooker Enchilada Orzo ??

The chicken recipe is still the best weekend dish, and my children love it—especially when I tell them that after eating it, I’ll serve them fresas con crema. They always look forward to it.

FAQ’S

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