Description
A warm and comforting casserole that brings the essence of French onion soup to life with layers of flavor, creamy textures, and tender chicken.
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 (for added depth)
Instructions
- Caramelize the onions: In your large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, followed by the sugar and salt to coax out their sweetness. Stir this aromatic blend for 20–25 minutes until the onions transform into a deep, golden caramel.
- Add orzo and chicken: Stir in the orzo pasta and give it a light toast for about 2 minutes. Next, incorporate the shredded chicken, dried thyme, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly.
- Pour in liquids: Introduce the chicken broth and cream, bringing this entire medley to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, covering the dish and cooking for 8–10 minutes until the orzo becomes tender.
- Add cheese: Remove the lid and stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese until everything is luxuriously melted.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella on top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
Make caramelized onions a day ahead to ease prep. Use fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 575
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: French onion, casserole, chicken, orzo, comfort food