Description
A comforting casserole that combines the flavors of French onion soup with creamy orzo and tender chicken.
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
- Begin your journey by melting the butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the onions, sugar, and salt, stirring occasionally for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- In the final 1-2 minutes, stir in the minced garlic.
- Add the orzo and toast for 2 minutes.
- Mix in the shredded chicken, thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Pour in the chicken broth and cream, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and Parmesan until creamy.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top and bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Customize by using different cheeses or swapping chicken for grilled or sautéed chicken thighs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: French onion casserole, chicken orzo, comfort food, creamy pasta, baked casserole