Description
Enjoy the rich and comforting flavors of French Onion Chicken Orzo. This dish features tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and caramelized onions, perfect for a cozy meal.
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 the butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook while stirring occasionally for 20 to 25 minutes until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Add the minced garlic during the last 2 minutes.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and let it cook for 2 minutes to lightly toast.
- Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze if using. Mix thoroughly.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
- Add 1 cup of mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese on top. 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, use high-quality chicken broth.
If you prefer, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk for a lighter version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 64g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg