Description
A comforting casserole that merges classic French onion soup flavors with tender orzo pasta and succulent chicken, topped with rich cheeses.
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 (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
- Prepare Ingredients: Thinly slice the yellow onions and mince the garlic cloves. Grate the cheeses if necessary and have your cooked shredded chicken ready.
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large pot, melt butter and oil, add onions, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and sugar. Cook until deeply golden brown, about 45-90 minutes.
- Build the Flavor Base: Stir in garlic and thyme, deglaze with 1/2 cup chicken broth, then reduce for 2-3 minutes and add flour.
- Simmer the Orzo: Gradually stir in remaining chicken broth, heavy cream, and orzo. Simmer until orzo is about two-thirds cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Season with black pepper.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Stir in chicken, layer mixture and cheese in a greased baking dish.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Cover and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake another 15-20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
For added flavor, consider using high-quality cheese. This casserole can be customized with different proteins or vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: casserole, French onion, chicken, comfort food, orzo