Name: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons 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 or half and half; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze

Description

A cozy comfort food casserole featuring caramelized onions, shredded chicken, and cheesy orzo pasta.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons 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 or half and half
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 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1 to 2 minutes.
Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Add the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire if using. Mix well.
Add the chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender.
Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

Caramelizing the onions is key for flavor. If using lighter dairy options, adjust the quantity for creaminess.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: casserole, one pot meal, comfort food, chicken, orzo, French onion