Description
A comforting casserole that blends the flavors of sweet caramelized onions and creamy textures with hearty chicken and orzo pasta.
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
- In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized.
- Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking.
- Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast.
- Add shredded chicken, thyme, and pepper, mixing well. Incorporate Worcestershire sauce if using.
- Add the chicken broth and cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce 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 and the Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
For the ultimate flavor, sauté onions slowly on low heat for maximum caramelization. Adjust seasoning to personal preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg