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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Irresistible French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Bliss

Experience the cozy flavors of French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, a creamy, make-ahead delight that combines savory onions, tender orzo, and juicy chicken.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 slices yellow onions large sweet onions are ideal
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta rice-shaped pasta
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken rotisserie chicken is an easy substitute
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 pinch black pepper
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream swap with half and half for a lighter version
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese can be substituted with Gruyère or Swiss
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze optional for extra flavor depth

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Stirring Spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add 4 slices of yellow onions, sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of sugar and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Add 2 minced garlic cloves in the last 2 minutes.
  2. In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken with salt and black pepper. Add it to the hot skillet and brown for about 5 minutes without cooking through.
  3. Once onions are caramelized, add chicken broth and scrape the skillet's bottom. Stir in 1 cup of orzo pasta, ½ cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and the browned chicken. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until orzo is slightly firm.
  4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until melted, transfer to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden.
  5. Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or chopped parsley. Enjoy your warm, creamy casserole.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 620mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

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