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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Comforting French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Delight

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a creamy, comforting meal that's perfect for busy weeknights and impresses at gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Provides fat for cooking and adds a rich flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Aids in onion caramelization and adds depth.
  • 3 cups Sliced Yellow Onions Caramelized for sweetness and savory depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Enhances caramelization of onions.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced and added at the end for maximum flavor.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Main starch that soaks up creamy sauce.
  • 2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Adds herbaceous quality.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper For seasoning.
  • 2 cups Low-sodium Chicken Broth Builds base flavor.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Provides creaminess.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Melts beautifully for topping.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds sharpness and nutty flavor.
For Optional Enhancements
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Adds depth of flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Balsamic Glaze For a touch of sweetness and tang.

Equipment

  • large oven-safe skillet
  • wooden spoon
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large oven-safe skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add 3 sliced yellow onions, along with a pinch of sugar and salt. Stir frequently for 30-40 minutes until deeply golden.
  2. Season 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken with salt and pepper. In a separate skillet, brown the chicken over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until golden, then set aside.
  3. Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in 1 cup of uncooked orzo, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and the browned chicken. Allow to simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix half of the 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese into the orzo mixture until melted. Transfer to an oven-safe skillet, top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes.
  5. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes. Optionally garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This casserole is perfect for busy evenings and can be made ahead of time.

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