Description
A comforting casserole featuring creamy orzo pasta, savory chicken, and sweet caramelized onions, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
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 onions, sugar, and salt. Stir occasionally for 20-25 minutes until caramelized.
- Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1-2 minutes.
- Add the orzo and toast lightly for 2 minutes.
- Introduce the shredded chicken, thyme, and black pepper. Stir in Worcestershire sauce if using.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and Parmesan until melted.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top.
- Bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Make-ahead by preparing the casserole up to before baking and refrigerating. Can substitute orzo with rice or quinoa if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: casserole, comfort food, French onion