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–+ servings
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

A creamy, comforting one-dish meal featuring French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole with caramelized onions and tender chicken in a savory cheesy sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine French
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 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
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken rotisserie works well
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half and half for lighter option
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze for added depth (optional)

Instructions
 

Cooking Instructions

  • 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.
  • Add orzo and chicken. 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.
  • Pour in liquids. 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.
  • Add cheese. Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
  • Bake the casserole. 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.
  • Serve. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Casserole, chicken, comfort food, French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, one-dish meal, orzo
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