Creamy Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Orzo Casserole is a comforting and creamy one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With caramelized onions, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness, this casserole is both flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for lighter option)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (for added depth)

Instructions

1. Step 1: 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 the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes.
2. Step 2: Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes to lightly toast it. Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze if using. Mix well to combine.
3. Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
4. Step 4: Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses melt and the mixture becomes creamy.
5. Step 5: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
6. Step 6: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful shortcut.
• For a lighter casserole, substitute half and half for heavy cream.
• Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze enhances the depth of flavor.
• Try mixing in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added vegetables.
• To ensure even cooking, stir the orzo occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. You may want to add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small shells can be substituted, but cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

Creamy Chicken Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 69 reviews

This comforting Chicken Orzo Casserole combines tender caramelized onions, savory shredded chicken, creamy broth and cheese, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta, baked to golden bubbly perfection. It’s an easy one-pot meal that blends rich flavors and creamy textures for a hearty family dinner.

• Author: Nethan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Main Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie recommended)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Liquids & Cheese

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for lighter option)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional

• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (for added depth)

Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions: 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 the onions turn deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes to soften and release aroma.
2. Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast and absorb flavors. Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze if using. Mix everything thoroughly to combine.
3. Pour in Liquids: Add the chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and creamy.
4. Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts fully, creating a creamy mixture.
5. Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered in the oven for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired before serving for a fresh, herbal note.

Notes

• Using rotisserie chicken adds convenience and extra flavor.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half and half.
• Caramelizing the onions slowly is key to developing rich flavor.
• If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the mixture to a casserole dish before baking.
• Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze is optional but adds depth to the flavor.

Keywords: Chicken Orzo Casserole, easy casserole, comfort food, creamy chicken pasta, baked orzo, one-pot meal