Description
A warm, cheesy casserole featuring caramelized onions, shredded chicken, and creamy orzo, 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 (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
- 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 turn deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes to avoid burning.
- Stir in the orzo and let it cook for about 2 minutes to lightly toast. Next, add the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if you’re using it. Mix everything well.
- Add the chicken broth and cream to the skillet. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese along with the Parmesan cheese. Mix until it’s melted and creamy, creating a luscious sauce.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella on top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden.
- Allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with some fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
This casserole can be made ahead of time and reheats beautifully. Try adding spinach or different types of cheese for variations.
- 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: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: casserole, chicken, comfort food, French onion, orzo