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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Hearty French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole for Cozy Nights

Enjoy a comforting and flavorful French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, perfect for chilly nights and busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Adds richness and helps in caramelizing onions; substitute with olive oil if avoiding dairy.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Aids in cooking the onions for a deeper flavor; can be replaced with more butter.
  • 4-5 large Yellow Onions Provide sweetness and depth; large, sweet onions work best for caramelization.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Enhances the caramelization of onions; omit if preferred for a less sweet flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning and enhancing the dish’s flavor profile.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Adds aromatic depth; garlic powder can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Acts as the hearty base for the casserole, soaking up the flavors; can be replaced with gluten-free options.
  • 2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken Offers protein; rotisserie chicken is a convenient choice; can omit for a vegetarian dish.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Adds lovely herbal notes; fresh thyme is also a great choice.
  • Black to taste Pepper For seasoning; adjust according to your spice preference.
  • 1 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Creates a delicious depth akin to traditional French onion soup; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Contributes to a rich, creamy texture; half-and-half can lighten it up.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Melts beautifully and binds the casserole; substitute with Gruyère or Swiss cheese for a twist.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Offers a savory, tangy flavor; while optional, it’s highly recommended.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce/Balsamic Glaze Optional for an added umami depth.

Equipment

  • large oven-safe skillet
  • Medium skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
  1. In a large oven-safe skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add 4-5 sliced yellow onions, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and a pinch of salt; cook gently for 30-40 minutes until golden brown and caramelized.
  2. While the onions are caramelizing, season 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken with salt and black pepper, then sear in another skillet for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Deglaze the skillet with 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth, scraping up the brown bits. Stir in 1 cup of orzo pasta, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and add the seared chicken. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Mix in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until melted. Transfer to the oven, top with an additional cup of mozzarella cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
  5. Remove from the oven and rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This casserole is versatile; feel free to adjust flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences. Perfect for make-ahead meals and freezable for busy nights.

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