Description
A warm and comforting casserole combining rich flavors of French onion soup, tender chicken, and creamy orzo.
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
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. Stir occasionally and let them cook for 20–25 minutes until they turn a deep golden brown and caramelized. When there are just 1–2 minutes left, stir in the minced garlic.
- Add orzo and chicken: Sprinkle in the orzo and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix well.
- Pour in liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 8–10 minutes.
- Add cheese: Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly.
- Serve: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving and garnish with thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
For extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil on top before baking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: casserole, French onion, chicken, orzo, comfort food