Description
This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a comforting and savory dish combining the rich flavors of caramelized onions, tender shredded chicken, and creamy cheeses with tender orzo pasta. Perfectly baked to achieve a bubbly, golden top, this casserole offers a deliciously creamy and hearty meal ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Onion Base
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Worcestershire sauce (optional, about 1 teaspoon)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter together with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions along with sugar and salt. Cook slowly for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions become golden brown and caramelized. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking to release its aroma.
- Toast the Orzo and Combine Ingredients: Stir the orzo pasta into the caramelized onions and toast it for about 2 minutes to bring out its nutty flavor. Then, add the cooked shredded chicken, dried thyme, freshly ground black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using, mixing well to combine all flavors.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then reduce the heat to low and gently simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. This will allow the orzo to absorb the liquids and become tender while the flavors meld together into a creamy consistency.
- Incorporate Cheese: Stir in 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese along with the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and integrated into a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the orzo and chicken thoroughly.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the skillet mixture. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking. This helps the dish set slightly and makes it easier to serve while enhancing flavor development.
Notes
- If Worcestershire sauce is not available, you can omit it or substitute with a splash of soy sauce for umami depth.
- For extra flavor, consider adding fresh thyme instead of dried.
- You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina cheese for a different twist.
- Using low-sodium chicken broth helps control the salt content.
- If dairy is a concern, heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.
- Ensure the skillet is oven-safe before baking; otherwise, transfer the mixture to a casserole dish for baking.
