Creamy Chicken, Ham, & Orzo Bake

This creamy Chicken, Ham & Orzo Bake is the ultimate comfort-food casserole, packed with tender seasoned chicken, smoky ham, sweet peas, and mushrooms in a rich homemade white wine and Dijon mustard sauce. The creamy filling is combined with delicate orzo pasta and topped with a generous layer of melted golden cheese before being baked until bubbling and perfectly browned. Hearty, satisfying, and ideal for feeding a crowd, this family-friendly dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead freezer meals. Why you'll love it: Rich and creamy with plenty of flavour A complete meal in one dish Great for using leftover chicken or ham Freezer-friendly and perfect for meal prep Comforting enough for winter, yet light enough for year-round enjoyment Serving suggestion: Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables for a balanced meal.

Good

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Place the chicken breasts in a pot and cover with water.

Step 2

Add the salt, Steak & Chops seasoning, and 2 chicken stock cubes.

Step 3

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 4

Remove from the liquid and allow to cool slightly.

Step 5

Cut the chicken into approximately 1 cm cubes.

Step 6

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Step 7

Add the flour and stir continuously for about 1 minute.

Step 8

Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.

Step 9

Cook until thickened.

Step 10

Season with salt and pepper.

Step 11

Repeat until you have made three batches, or simply prepare a triple batch in one large saucepan.

Step 12

Preheat the oven to 200°C.

Step 13

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

Step 14

Cubed chicken

Step 15

Cooked orzo

Step 16

Mushrooms

Step 17

Peas

Step 18

Ham

Step 19

White wine

Step 20

Dijon mustard

Step 21

Pour over the white sauce and mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Step 22

Transfer the mixture to a large greased ovenproof casserole dish.

Step 23

Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top.

Step 24

Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes at 200°C, until hot and bubbling.

Step 25

Switch the oven to grill (broil) and grill for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and slightly crispy.