Description
A cozy and flavorful casserole combining caramelized onions, tender chicken, and gooey cheese with al dente orzo, perfect for a comforting meal.
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
- Peel and thinly slice the onions. Mince the garlic and measure out the thyme. Grate the cheeses if not pre-shredded and have the cooked chicken ready.
- In a pot, melt butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the onions, salt, and sugar. Cover and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, then uncover and cook for 45 to 90 minutes until golden brown. Reserve 1/2 cup of caramelized onions for topping.
- Add garlic and thyme to the pot and sauté for 1 minute. Deglaze with 1/2 cup chicken broth and stir in optional sauce. Simmer and reduce by half.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the remaining broth while stirring. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream. Add orzo and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until al dente. Season with pepper and adjust salt.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish. Stir chicken into orzo mixture. Layer half in dish, top with half the cheese, add remaining mixture, then top with remaining cheese and reserved onions.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until bubbling and golden.
- Let rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with chives or parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
For best results, caramelize the onions thoroughly, and ensure the oven is preheated before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: casserole, chicken, orzo, French onion, comfort food