Description
A cozy, cheesy bake that combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with orzo and shredded chicken for a comforting casserole 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 (or half and half for 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
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large Dutch oven, melt butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cover and cook for 10–15 minutes.
- Uncover and cook for another 45–90 minutes until onions are deeply golden brown.
- Remove 1/2 cup of caramelized onions for topping. Add minced garlic and thyme to the pot and sauté for 1 minute.
- Deglaze with 1/2 cup chicken broth and let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, then gradually add remaining chicken broth and heavy cream. Mix in orzo, simmering for 8–10 minutes.
- Stir in shredded chicken and assemble the casserole in a greased baking dish. Layer with mozzarella and reserved onions.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until bubbly.
- Let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like chives or parsley as a garnish before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: casserole, chicken, French onion, comfort food, one-dish meal