Description
A rich and comforting casserole featuring tender chicken, caramelized onions, creamy orzo, and melty cheese baked together in one dish for a cozy French-onion-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, for caramelizing)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions, salt, pepper, and sugar. Cook 15–20 minutes until deeply caramelized.
- Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
- Stir in diced chicken and cook until lightly browned, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add orzo, chicken broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Stir to combine.
- Bring mixture to a simmer, then cover and transfer to the oven.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Remove from oven, stir gently, and sprinkle cheese evenly over the top.
- Return to oven uncovered for 5–7 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time—add it after the onions are caramelized.
- Swap Gruyère for mozzarella or provolone if preferred.
- Add mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
- Broil for 1–2 minutes for a browned, bubbly top.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Stovetop & Baking
- Cuisine: French-American Fusion