Description
A warm, cheesy one-dish meal featuring sweet caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
- 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
- Melt the butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally until caramelized.
- Add the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking.
- Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes to lightly toast it.
- Mix in shredded chicken, thyme, and black pepper. Add Worcestershire sauce if desired.
- Pour in chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Cook onions low and slow for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French