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Creamy Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://deliciousdishspot.com/creamy-chicken-recipe-2/