Name: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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 (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)

Description

A comforting casserole featuring tender orzo pasta, caramelized onions, and gooey cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

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 (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)

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Instructions

In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Add the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking.
Stir in the orzo and toast for 2 minutes. Then, add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix well.
Add the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

This dish is great with a simple green salad or crusty bread. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 90mg