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–+ servings
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Savor French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole for Cozy Evenings

Delight in this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, a cozy, one-dish meal full of rich flavors and creamy textures.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter can substitute with salted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil enhances caramelization
  • 3 large yellow onions sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar optional
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust according to broth
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
For the Casserole
  • 1 cup orzo pasta substitute with gluten-free or short pasta
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken rotisserie chicken is convenient
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme fresh thyme optional
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper to taste
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth vegetable broth for vegetarian option
  • ½ cup heavy cream half-and-half as lighter alternative
For the Topping
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese can substitute with Swiss or provolone
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese nutritional yeast for vegan option
  • Worcestershire Sauce optional for added depth
  • Balsamic Glaze optional for added depth

Equipment

  • large oven-safe skillet
  • separate skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large oven-safe skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, adding minced garlic in the last minute.
  2. Season cooked shredded chicken with salt and black pepper. In a separate skillet, brown the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side.
  3. Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the skillet. Stir in orzo pasta, heavy cream, thyme, and browned chicken. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and mix in mozzarella cheese. Transfer to the oven and top with remaining cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
  5. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before enjoying.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Perfect for make-ahead and freezing for later enjoyment. Adjust seasoning to taste while preparing.

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