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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

A warm, creamy casserole that combines the comforting flavors of French onion soup with tender chicken and orzo pasta.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: Gather and prep all ingredients by slicing onions, shredding chicken, and mincing garlic.
  2. Caramelize the onions: Melt butter and olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt; stir. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Incorporate orzo and chicken: Add orzo and shredded chicken to the skillet, mixing well with thyme and black pepper.
  5. Mix in broth and cream: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a simmer. Cook for 8–10 minutes until orzo is al dente.
  6. Stir in cheeses: Remove from heat, add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and mix well.
  7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the skillet. Sprinkle extra cheese on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes.
  8. Cool and serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Freezes well; thaw overnight before reheating.

Nutrition

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