Description
A comforting and creamy casserole that combines caramelized onions, tender chicken, and orzo pasta, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
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 about 20-25 minutes until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the minced garlic for the last 1-2 minutes.
- Add the orzo and toast for 2 minutes.
- Mix in the shredded chicken, thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top and bake for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
You can make this dish lighter by substituting half and half for the heavy cream and using chicken breast instead of thighs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: casserole, chicken, comfort food, French onion, pasta