Name: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: French
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; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze

Description

A comforting and savory casserole combining the classic flavors of French onion soup with tender orzo and chicken.

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
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze

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Instructions

Caramelize the onions: 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 the orzo and chicken: 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 the liquids: 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: Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
Bake the casserole: 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: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

For added depth, consider using sugar-free alternatives to sweeten the dish.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: main course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 500
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg