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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

A comforting one-skillet casserole featuring creamy orzo, caramelized onions, and rotisserie chicken, perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Comfort Food, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, French
Servings 6 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the casserole

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar helps caramelize the onions
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken rotisserie chicken recommended for maximum flavor
  • 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 a lighter option
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze optional for extra flavor

Instructions
 

Caramelize the Onions

  • 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, and cook for about 20 to 25 minutes until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized.
  • Add the minced garlic for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking.

Add Orzo and Chicken

  • Stir in the orzo pasta and toast for 2 minutes.
  • Add the shredded chicken, thyme, and black pepper, and mix thoroughly.
  • If using, splash in Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze.

Pour in Liquids

  • Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Cover and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add Cheese

  • Once the orzo is tender, stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Bake the Casserole

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
  • Bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden.

Serve

  • Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

For best results, use a sharp knife for slicing onions and do not rush the caramelization process.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g
Keyword Casserole, Chicken, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Orzo
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