Description
A comforting casserole with tender orzo pasta, caramelized onions, creamy sauce, and juicy chicken, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
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 (rotisserie works well)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for a lighter option)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze
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, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking.
- Add orzo and chicken: Stir in the orzo and toast it for about 2 minutes. Then, mix in the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if desired.
- Pour in liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
- Add cheese: Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella on top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Once baked, let it rest for about 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
This dish can be paired with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. For meal prep, prepare a day in advance and bake when ready to serve.
- 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: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: casserole, comfort food, pasta bake, chicken, French onion