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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Savory French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole for Cozy Nights

A warm embrace of caramelized onions and juicy chicken nestled in creamy orzo—perfect for cozy nights and gatherings, this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter can substitute with olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or all butter if preferred
  • 3 large yellow onions Vidalia or white onions work well
  • 1 teaspoon sugar omit if onions are sweet enough
  • to taste salt adjust based on personal taste
  • 2 cloves garlic fresh preferred, minced in a pinch
  • 1 cup orzo pasta gluten-free orzo can be used
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken rotisserie chicken recommended
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme fresh thyme for a more vibrant taste
  • to taste black pepper white pepper can be used as substitute
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth vegetable broth for vegetarian option
  • ½ cup heavy cream use whole milk for a lighter version
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese Swiss or provolone can be substituted
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese Pecorino Romano can be used
  • to taste Worcestershire sauce omit for vegetarian dish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • mixing bowl
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 30-40 minutes until caramelized.
  2. While the onions are caramelizing, season the cooked shredded chicken with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken in a separate skillet for about 5 minutes.
  3. Once the onions are caramelized, pour in the chicken broth. Stir in the orzo pasta, heavy cream, and thyme. Add the cooked chicken and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix half of the mozzarella cheese with the orzo mixture, then transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and Parmesan. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
  5. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Consider adding balsamic vinegar or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. Use heavy cream for the richness and garnish for a pop of color.

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