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–+ servings

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

500kcal
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Prep 10 minutes
Cook 40 minutes
Total 50 minutes
A cozy and simple one-pan dish that combines caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo, baked to perfection.
Servings 6 servings
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine French

Ingredients

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
For the Casserole
  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for lighter option)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (for added depth)

Method

Caramelize the Onions
  1. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes.
Add Orzo and Chicken
  1. Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire if using. Mix well.
Pour in Liquids
  1. Add the chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
Add Cheese
  1. Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
Bake the Casserole
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Serve
  1. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving1gCalories500kcalCarbohydrates42gProtein25gFat30gSaturated Fat15gSodium800mgFiber2gSugar4g

Notes

Caramelize onions slowly. Use rotisserie chicken to save time. If the casserole looks dry when reheating, stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream. For a flavor twist, add Worcestershire or balsamic glaze. Pair with handhelds like Brazilian Coconut Chicken for a side.

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