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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: None

Description

A comforting one-pot dish featuring caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  6. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half and half or a non-dairy alternative. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: French onion, chicken, orzo, casserole, one-pot meal

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Find it online: https://cooksfoody.com/french-onion-chicken-orzo-casserole-2/