Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Orzo & Broccoli Soup

Warm up with Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Orzo & Broccoli Soup—a creamy, comforting meal perfect for easy weeknight dinners. This luscious soup combines tender chicken, tender orzo pasta, and vibrant broccoli in a rich, flavorful broth that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re craving something soothing after a long day or searching for a family-friendly dish, this recipe delivers on both taste and simplicity, making it a staple you’ll reach for again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Comfort: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic while you relax or take care of other things.
• Balanced Nutrition: Packed with lean protein, wholesome veggies, and satisfying pasta, it hits all the right notes for a filling meal.
• Flavor Explosion: The creamy broth layered with garlic, herbs, and a touch of cheese brings cozy richness without heaviness.
• Kid-Friendly Appeal: The mild yet tasty profile makes it a winner for picky eaters and adults alike.
• Minimal Cleanup: One crockpot means less mess in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simple, essential ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one adds something special—whether it’s texture, flavor, or color—to create a harmonious and crave-worthy bowl.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose boneless, skinless for easy shredding and lean protein.
• Orzo pasta: This tiny pasta cooks perfectly in the crockpot, adding comforting bite and heartiness.
• Fresh broccoli florets: Adds vibrant green color and a satisfying crunch once cooked.
• Chicken broth: The savory base that infuses the soup with deep, rich flavor.
• Garlic and onions: Aromatics that build layers of deliciousness in every spoonful.
• Heavy cream or half-and-half: For that smooth, velvety consistency that keeps the soup luscious.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds umami depth and a slightly nutty finish to the broth.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings warmth and comfort.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and brighten flavors.

Variations for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Orzo & Broccoli Soup

This soup is incredibly flexible, so feel free to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs without losing its essence. Here are some tasty ideas to make it your own.

• Swap protein: Use turkey, diced ham, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
• Different greens: Substitute kale, spinach, or swiss chard for broccoli for varied texture and flavor.
• Lighten it up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
• Add spices: Include crushed red pepper or smoked paprika to give the dish a gentle kick.
• Gluten-free swap: Replace orzo with gluten-free pasta or even quinoa for an alternative grain.

How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Orzo & Broccoli Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by placing the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of your crockpot. Add chopped onions and minced garlic over the top to build that aromatic foundation that will infuse throughout the cooking process.

Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Gently stir everything together but keep the chicken mostly at the bottom where it will slowly cook and become tender.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Set your crockpot on low for 5 to 6 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow simmer helps the flavors meld and the chicken to become perfectly shreddable and juicy.

Step 4: Add Orzo and Broccoli

About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks. Then stir in the orzo and broccoli florets, allowing the pasta to cook al dente and the broccoli to soften without losing its vibrant green color.

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Cheese

Finally, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the soup feels creamy and indulgent. Adjust seasonings if needed and let it warm through for a few more minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Orzo & Broccoli Soup

• Freshness is key: Use fresh broccoli and shred the chicken right before adding for best texture.
• Don’t overcook the orzo: Add it later in the cooking process to avoid mushiness.
• Use homemade broth if possible: It adds richer flavor compared to store-bought versions.
• Stir gently: To keep broccoli vibrant, avoid heavy stirring once it’s added.
• Adjust creaminess to taste: Start with less cream and add more as needed so it never feels too heavy.

How to Serve Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Orzo & Broccoli Soup

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds brightness and a pop of color, while a little extra Parmesan on top enhances that cheesy goodness. Drizzle olive oil or a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of freshness when you like.

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with a warm crusty baguette, garlic bread, or a simple green salad to keep the meal balanced and satisfying. Roasted vegetables on the side also complement the creamy soup beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it in rustic bowls or bread bowls for that cozy, comforting vibe. For gatherings, mini soup shooters with a sprinkle of Parmesan make for fun, easy-to-eat appetizers that wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making for convenient next-day lunches or dinners.

Freezing

This soup freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember orzo tends to absorb liquid when frozen, so adding a bit of broth or water when reheating helps maintain the creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking. Adding an extra splash of broth or cream while reheating refreshes the soup’s consistency and flavor perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Orzo & Broccoli Soup?

Yes, frozen broccoli works in a pinch but add it later in the cooking process to avoid overcooking and mushiness.

Is it possible to make this soup in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Use the sauté function for onions and garlic, then pressure cook the chicken with broth before adding orzo and broccoli for a quicker version.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

You can, but add it closer to the end of the cooking time to warm through without drying out the meat.

How do I make the soup dairy-free?

Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and use a vegan Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.

What if I don’t have orzo pasta?

Other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, ditalini, or tiny macaroni work well too; just watch cooking times for each.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a meal that feels like a warm, comforting hug but doesn’t demand hours of work, Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Orzo & Broccoli Soup is your new best friend. Its creamy, flavorful broth and nourishing ingredients create a bowl of pure satisfaction that everyone will love. Give it a try—you won’t regret having this recipe saved for those busy evenings when you want delicious without the fuss.

Related Posts

• Instant Pot Curried Lentil & Potato Stew
• Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
• Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie

Print