Description
French Onion Chicken Orzo offers a delightful blend of flavors featuring caramelized onions, juicy chicken, and creamy cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions
- Melt butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in minced garlic during the last 2 minutes.
- Add orzo pasta to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Incorporate shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze if using. Mix thoroughly.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until orzo is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Evenly sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Allow the dish to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
You can substitute the orzo with other types of pasta if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg