Description
A creamy and golden casserole filled with tender orzo pasta, shredded chicken, and caramelized onions, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
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
- Caramelize the onions: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the 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.
- Add orzo and chicken: Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Add the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix well.
- Pour in liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
- Add cheese: Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
Make-ahead option available; prepare in advance and bake when ready to serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg