Description
A warm and comforting casserole that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions, shredded chicken, and tender orzo pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.
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
- Start by melting the butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the thinly sliced onions, sugar, and salt.
- Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden and caramelized.
- Stir in the minced garlic for an additional burst of flavor in the final 1-2 minutes.
- Add the orzo pasta and let it cook for about 2 minutes.
- Mix in the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stir well, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top and bake uncovered for about 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven, let it rest for 5-10 minutes, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, and serve.
Notes
Can be made ahead of time and refrigerated. For a vegetarian version, omit chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or cooked lentils.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: French onion, chicken casserole, comfort food, one-pot meal, orzo recipe