Description
A comforting and delicious casserole that melds caramelized onions, chicken, and orzo pasta for a satisfying meal.
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
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze
Instructions
- In a large oven-safe skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20-25 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized, adding garlic in the last 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the orzo and lightly toast for 2 minutes. Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer for 8-10 minutes until orzo is tender and has absorbed some liquid.
- Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and grated Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top and bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
Pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. For an even richer flavor, add a splash of white wine while caramelizing the onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: casserole, French onion, chicken, orzo, comfort food