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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free orzo)

Description

A comforting casserole that combines the flavors of French onion soup with tender orzo and juicy chicken, perfect for weeknight dinners.

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 the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Add in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes.
  2. Stir in the orzo and cook for an additional 2 minutes to lightly toast. Mix in shredded chicken, thyme, and black pepper, incorporating thoroughly.
  3. Add the chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for about 8–10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
  4. Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese until creamy and melted.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  6. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.

Notes

Cook onions low and slow for perfect caramelization. Serve with a green salad or garlic bread.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: casserole, chicken, orzo, French onion, comfort food

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Find it online: https://homecookrecipes.net/french-onion-chicken-orzo-casserole-2/