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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole


  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free pasta)

Description

A warm and cozy casserole featuring the rich flavors of French onion soup, tender chicken, and creamy orzo, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced (about 500g)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta (approx. 270g)
  • 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (600ml)
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked shredded chicken (about 250g)
  • 1/2 cup shredded gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese, 50g)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (100g)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven and prepare a large oven-safe skillet with olive oil over medium-low heat.
  2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20–25 minutes until golden and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
  3. Stir in the butter, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and black pepper; cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add the uncooked orzo and stir for 2–3 minutes to lightly toast the pasta.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the shredded chicken.
  6. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  7. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and sprinkle the gruyère and mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole.
  8. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  9. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Caramelizing the onions well enhances the flavor significantly. Feel free to substitute the cheeses to your preference.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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