Description
A delightful twist on classic French onion soup, this casserole combines aromatic caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo for a comforting family dinner.
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
- 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 until golden and caramelized. Stir in minced garlic for the last 1–2 minutes.
- Stir in orzo and toast lightly for about 2 minutes. Add cooked shredded chicken, thyme, black pepper, and optional Worcestershire sauce. Mix well.
- Add chicken broth and heavy cream, raise the heat to bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is tender.
- Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and Parmesan. Mix until melted and creamy.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle remaining mozzarella over casserole. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
Pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread. Can be customized with additional vegetables or spices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: casserole, comfort food, French onion, chicken, orzo