Delish! Made this for dinner and we ate it again the next day!

When the day calls for a little comfort wrapped in the warm hug of home-cooked goodness, nothing does it quite like this Slow Cooker Mustard Chicken and Creamy Orzo. It sings with just enough zest to jazz up suppertime while keeping things reassuringly delicious. We're talking about tender chicken bathed in a rich, mustardy sauce, all cozied up alongside creamy, buttery orzo that'll have you all but forgetting the day's worries. This dish has that 'gather-round-the-table' kind of feeling. Perfect for bustling weeknights or when you're wanting to slow things down on a Sunday.

Pair this hearty entrée with some steamed greens for a punch of color—broccoli or green beans work a treat. Or toss together a quick salad with crisp, fresh veggies for a light and refreshing side. A warm loaf of crusty bread would also be marvelous, perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Slow Cooker Mustard Chicken and Creamy Orzo
Servings: 6 servings

- 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups water or additional chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper to taste and place them into your slow cooker. For better flavor, brown them first.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and dried thyme, then pour this flavorful concoction over the chicken in the slow cooker.

3. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and melts in your mouth tender.

4. When the chicken is about done, get your orzo ready. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or additional chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo, and cook it according to the package instructions until it's al dente.

5. Drain the orzo, if necessary, and then mix in the butter until it's melted and the orzo is well coated. Fold in that delightful Parmesan cheese.

6. Stir the sour cream into the slow cooker, blending it well with the juices and creating a creamy sauce that's just divine.

7. To serve, spoon a generous helping of creamy orzo onto each plate, top with a succulent chicken thigh, and drizzle over some of that creamy mustard sauce. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.

8. Call the family to dinner and watch as they settle into the comfort of this lovingly prepared meal.

- For an extra layer of flavor, brown the chicken in a skillet before placing it in the slow cooker.
- Picky eater in the house? Customize their dish by serving the sauce on the side.
- No sour cream? Greek yogurt is a splendid substitute.
- Transform leftovers into a new meal by shredding the chicken and stirring it into the orzo, effectively making it a creamy pasta dish to enjoy the next day, with maybe just a dash more cheese on top for good measure.
- When there’s a nip in the air, don't hesitate to add a pinch of cayenne or paprika to the sauce for a touch of warmth that bridges the seasons right in your bowl.