Description
A delightful casserole combining caramelized onions, creamy cheese, orzo pasta, and tender chicken, perfect for family gatherings.
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, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden and caramelized. Stir in garlic during the last 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in orzo and cook for 2 minutes. Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix well.
- Add chicken broth and cream. 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 mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top and bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. You can also prepare the casserole in advance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg