Savory French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole to Warm Your Soul

This Creamy French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines the classic flavors of French onion soup with orzo pasta for a comforting one-dish meal.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Resting Time 10

Total Time 1 10

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: French

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Base

2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Creates a rich base for caramelizing onions.
2 tablespoons Olive Oil Aids in cooking the onions.
2 large Yellow Onions Provides deep sweetness when caramelized.
1 tablespoon Sugar Enhances the caramelization of onions.
to taste Salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
2 cloves Garlic Adds aromatic depth.

For the Pasta and Protein

1 cup Orzo Pasta Rice-shaped pasta that absorbs the savory sauce.
2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken Main protein in the dish.

For the Flavoring

1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Adds an earthy touch.
to taste Black Pepper Provides seasoning.
1 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Helps build a robust flavor.

For the Creaminess

1 cup Heavy Cream Contributes to the dish's creamy texture.
1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Creamy and melty.
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds a nutty and sharp flavor.

For Flavor Enhancement

Worcestershire Sauce or Balsamic Glaze Optional for enhanced depth of flavor.

Equipment

large skillet
Baking dish

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt unsalted butter and olive oil in a skillet. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Caramelize for 30-40 minutes until golden brown, adding minced garlic in the last minute.
In another skillet, season shredded chicken with salt and black pepper. Brown the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side.
Deglaze the onion skillet with chicken broth, then stir in orzo, heavy cream, thyme, and browned chicken. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Stir in mozzarella cheese until melted. Transfer to a baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes.
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 28gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This casserole is make-ahead friendly and can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat with care to maintain creaminess.

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