Description
This French Onion Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish combining tender chicken and creamy orzo in a comforting sauce. With caramelized onions and rich cheeses, it’s a perfect choice for a quick dinner that your family will love.
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, cooking for 20 to 25 minutes until caramelized. Stir in minced garlic during the last 2 minutes.
- Add orzo to the skillet, cooking for 2 minutes to lightly toast. Mix in shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is tender.
- Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and all Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella over the top and bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the dish rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley as a garnish.
This dish can be made ahead of time; just reheat in the oven before serving.
Customize with your favorite vegetables or add more cheese for a creamier texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg