Description
A comforting casserole featuring caramelized onions, tender orzo, and hearty chicken, topped with melted cheese that beckons from the oven.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions
- Caramelize the onions: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes while stirring occasionally until the onions turn deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes.
- Add orzo and chicken: Stir in the orzo and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Incorporate the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix everything well.
- Pour in liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo becomes tender.
- Add cheese: Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: French Onion, Chicken, Casserole, Orzo, Comfort Food