Description
A comforting casserole that combines the flavors of French onion soup with tender chicken and orzo pasta, baked to perfection.
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 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 deep golden brown and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and allow it to lightly toast for about 2 minutes. Add in the cooked shredded chicken, dried thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if desired.
- Carefully add the low-sodium chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the lid and stir in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella over the top of the casserole and bake uncovered for about 10–15 minutes.
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving, garnished with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
Allow the casserole to rest after baking for better flavor and easier serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: French onion, chicken casserole, comfort food, one-pot meal, family recipe