Description
A comforting French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combining caramelized onions, tender shredded chicken, and creamy cheeses baked to golden perfection. This hearty one-pan meal features tender orzo simmered in chicken broth and cream, finished with a bubbly cheese topping, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Main Components
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Cheese and Seasoning
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Black pepper to taste
- Worcestershire sauce (optional, amount not specified, approximately 1 tablespoon)
Instructions
- Caramelize Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, sugar, and salt, then cook for 20 to 25 minutes until the onions turn golden brown and caramelized. Add the minced garlic during the last minute to release its aroma.
- Toast Orzo and Add Chicken: Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it for about 2 minutes to develop a nutty flavor. Then add the shredded cooked chicken, thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using, mixing well to combine.
- Simmer Orzo: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Add Cheeses to Sauce: Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until they melt fully into a creamy sauce, incorporating all ingredients evenly.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the skillet mixture. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the dish set.
Notes
- Using an oven-safe skillet eliminates the need to transfer the casserole between steps, making preparation easier and cleanup faster.
- Caramelizing onions slowly is key to developing the rich, sweet flavor characteristic of French onion dishes.
- Optional Worcestershire sauce adds depth and umami but can be omitted or substituted with soy sauce for a different profile.
- Leftover cooked chicken works well for this recipe; shredded rotisserie chicken can save prep time.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking ensures easier slicing and enhances flavor absorption.
