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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

A delicious French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combining tender orzo, caramelized onions, and creamy cheese.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine French
Servings 6 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

  • large oven-safe skillet
  • Dutch oven

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients

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

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Caramelize the onions.
  • In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add 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.
  • Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire if using. Mix well.
  • Add the chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
  • Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  • Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator before baking or enjoyed as leftovers later.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 36gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2.5mg
Keyword casserole, Cheese, chicken, Comfort Food, French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, Pasta
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