Description
This Chicken Orzo Bake is a comforting, creamy casserole combining tender orzo pasta with a mix of vibrant vegetables, rotisserie chicken, and a blend of sharp Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Baked to perfection and easy to prepare, it’s an ideal hearty weeknight meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2-3/4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 (12-ounce) bag frozen diced peas and carrots
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1-3/4 cups orzo
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
Cheeses
- 2 cups freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (divided)
- 2/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
Additional Ingredients
- 3 cups diced rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup finely diced broccoli
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Combine Base Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, mix together olive oil, chicken broth, heavy cream, paprika, garlic powder, ground mustard, frozen peas and carrots, frozen corn, and orzo. Add 1 cup of sharp Cheddar cheese, 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently until all ingredients are well combined, then press the mixture into an even layer within the dish.
- Add Cheese Topping and Bake: Evenly sprinkle 1/2 cup Cheddar cheese and the remaining 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese over the top of the orzo mixture. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the casserole is creamy and bubbly.
- Incorporate Chicken and Broccoli: Remove the dish from the oven. Add the diced rotisserie chicken, finely diced broccoli, and the remaining 1/2 cup of Cheddar cheese on top. Gently fold these ingredients through the casserole to distribute evenly.
- Let the Casserole Rest: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the casserole to thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Final Touch and Serve: After resting, give the casserole a gentle stir to ensure everything is evenly mixed. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve warm for a comforting and delicious meal.
Notes
- Note 1: Orzo can be measured dry; ensure it is the traditional rice-shaped pasta.
- Note 2: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is preferred for better melting and flavor.
- Note 3: Finely diced broccoli adds a fresh, crunchy texture and nutritional value, but can be substituted with other vegetables if preferred.
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, but leftover cooked chicken or freshly cooked chicken breast can be substituted.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to personal taste and the saltiness of your chicken broth.
