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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Savory French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole for Cozy Nights

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines savory flavors of caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo for a comforting dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Casserole Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Adds rich flavor for caramelizing onions
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Aids in cooking onions without burning
  • 3 Yellow Onions Provides the base flavor; large sweet onions caramelize beautifully
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Enhances the caramelization of onions
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for balancing sweetness
  • 2 cloves Garlic Adds aromatic depth
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Acts as the pasta base, soaking in flavors
  • 2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken Makes the dish filling; rotisserie chicken recommended
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Infuses herbal notes
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Elevates the overall taste
  • 2 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Adds moisture and depth
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Creates a luscious, creamy sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Provides a melty texture
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Enhances flavor richness
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce/Balsamic Glaze Adds layers of flavor; optional

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet
  • Separate skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Melt butter and olive oil over medium-low heat, add onions, sugar, and salt. Stir for 30-40 minutes until caramelized.
  2. Season chicken with salt and pepper, brown in a separate skillet for 3-5 minutes.
  3. Deglaze the onion skillet with chicken broth, add orzo, heavy cream, thyme, and chicken. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Stir in mozzarella cheese until melted, layer in the skillet, top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  5. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  6. Let rest for 5-10 minutes, garnish with fresh thyme if desired, then serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This dish is a make-ahead marvel, perfect for cozy bistro-style meals at home.

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