Description
A delicious and comforting one-pot casserole combining caramelized onions, orzo pasta, and gooey melted cheese, perfect for cozy dinners or 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 (rotisserie preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for a lighter option)
- 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, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes.
- 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.
- Add the chicken broth and cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the casserole and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley as desired.
Notes
For added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs and serving with a side salad. This dish stores well but may require a splash of broth when reheating to maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 90mg