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–+ servings

Creamy Caramelized Onion Chicken Orzo Bake with Gruyère

A comforting blend of creamy sauce, caramelized onions, and tender chicken baked with melty cheese, perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Caramelized Onions
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
For the Orzo Bake
  • 1 1/2 cups dry orzo pasta
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère-style cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnish
  • to taste chopped fresh parsley or thyme For garnish

Method
 

Caramelizing Onions
  1. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook slowly for about 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are incredibly soft and a rich golden color.
  3. Mix in the minced garlic during the last 2 minutes of cooking and let it cook just until fragrant.
Preparing the Bake
  1. Stir in the dry orzo and onion powder to the pan. Keep stirring for about 2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta and set the flavor.
  2. Add in the shredded chicken, dried thyme, and black pepper, making sure everything is well combined.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and 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 and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  4. Stir in the Gruyère-style cheese, Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella. Mix until the cheese has melted and the sauce is wonderfully creamy.
  5. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spread the remaining mozzarella evenly on top and transfer the skillet to the oven.
  6. Bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until it’s bubbly and beautifully golden.
  7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. If you like, garnish with fresh herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5g

Notes

If desired, substitute chicken for roasted vegetables or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian twist. This dish pairs well with a side salad or roasted vegetables and can be complemented by a glass of Chardonnay.

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