Description
French Onion Chicken Orzo is a comforting and delicious dish that combines caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy cheeses. Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
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 the 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, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of 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 added flavor, consider using balsamic glaze with the ingredients.
Feel free to substitute the shredded chicken with rotisserie chicken for convenience.
This dish can be topped with additional herbs for a fresh touch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg