Description
A comforting casserole featuring caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo, perfect for family gatherings.
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 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, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Add orzo and chicken: Stir in the orzo pasta and let it toast lightly for about 2 minutes. Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix well.
- Pour in liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 8-10 minutes.
- Add cheese: Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until blended into a melty mixture.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella on top and bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
Pair with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables, and enjoy with a glass of white wine or sparkling water.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: casserole, chicken, comfort food, weeknight dinner, family meal