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–+ servings
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

A creamy, comforting one-dish meal featuring caramelized onions, tender chicken, and orzo pasta in a savory cheesy sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine French
Servings 6 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

  • oven-safe skillet
  • Dutch oven

Ingredients
  

Cooking Base

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 large yellow onions thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 3 cloves garlic minced

Main Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken rotisserie works well
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half and half for lighter option
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce optional for added depth

Instructions
 

Steps

  • Caramelize the Onions: 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.
  • Add Orzo and Chicken: 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.
  • Pour in Liquids: 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.
  • Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
  • Bake the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  • Serve: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be customized with different cheeses or proteins.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg
Keyword casserole, chicken, comfort food, French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, one-dish meal, orzo
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