Description
This creamy orzo chicken bake is a comforting dish that combines tender orzo pasta, shredded chicken, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cloves garlic (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
- In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally until caramelized.
- Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes.
- Add the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast.
- Toss in the shredded chicken, thyme, and pepper (add optional Worcestershire sauce if desired). Mix well.
- Add the chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover, cooking for 8–10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
- This dish can be garnished with additional shredded mozzarella or fresh herbs for added flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables or a plant-based protein.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg