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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Comforting French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole You’ll Adore

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines creamy orzo, tender chicken, and caramelized onions for a comforting and freezer-friendly dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine French
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • oven-safe skillet

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole

  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Adds richness and helps caramelize the onions; substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Enhances flavors and prevents burning; vegetable oil can be used if needed.
  • 3 large Yellow Onions Their sweetness amplifies when caramelized.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Aids in caramelization of onions; can be omitted if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for enhancing flavors.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Infuses aromatic depth; can substitute with garlic powder.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully; gluten-free alternatives can replace if necessary.
  • 3 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken Provides protein; rotisserie chicken works great.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Adds an herbaceous note; fresh thyme can replace.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds warmth and depth.
  • 3 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Provides moisture; swap with vegetable broth for vegetarian.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Contributes to the dish's creamy texture; half-and-half can be used.
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Melts beautifully on top; Gruyère or Swiss cheese can be substituted.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds a salty note and depth to flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Introduces complexity; can be omitted if unavailable.

For Serving

  • 1/4 cup Fresh Thyme or Parsley Optional garnish that adds a touch of freshness before serving.

Instructions
 

How to Make

  • Melt butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions along with sugar and salt, stirring often for 30-40 minutes until they're richly caramelized and golden brown.
  • Season your cooked shredded chicken with salt and pepper. In a separate skillet, brown the chicken until it turns golden but isn't fully cooked through.
  • Pour low-sodium chicken broth over the caramelized onions to deglaze the skillet. Stir in orzo, heavy cream, dried thyme, and the browned chicken. Let this simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  • Mix half of the shredded mozzarella into the orzo mixture. Top with the remaining cheese and transfer to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

Optional: Sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan on top for added flavor before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Comforting Dinner, Crowd-Pleaser, Easy Casserole, Freezer-Friendly, French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, one pan meal
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