Description
A comforting casserole featuring caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo pasta—perfect for cozy family dinners.
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
- Melt the butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for about 20–25 minutes until caramelized.
- Stir in the minced garlic in the last 1–2 minutes of cooking.
- Gently stir in the orzo and toast for 2 minutes.
- Add the shredded chicken, thyme, and black pepper, mixing well.
- Pour in the chicken broth and cream, stirring to combine, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
- Off heat, add 1 cup of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella over the top and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Customize with your favorite veggies like spinach or mushrooms. Make ahead by prepping a day in advance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: French onion casserole, chicken orzo, comfort food, wholesome meals, dinner recipes