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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Creamy French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole for Cozy Nights

This Creamy French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines savory caramelized onions and tender chicken in a comforting dish perfect for busy nights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter substitute with margarine for a dairy-free version
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil canola oil works as an alternative
  • 3-4 medium yellow onions can use red onions for a different flavor
  • 1 teaspoon sugar can omit for a lower-sugar option
  • to taste salt adjust to taste as needed
  • 2 cloves garlic minced, fresh is best
  • 1 cup orzo pasta gluten-free orzo can be substituted
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken rotisserie chicken works excellently
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme fresh thyme is a great substitute if available
  • to taste black pepper white pepper can be used for a milder taste
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth vegetable broth is a good vegetarian alternative
  • 1 cup heavy cream use half-and-half for a lighter version
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese cheddar can be substituted for a sharper flavor
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese nutritional yeast can be used as a dairy-free alternative
  • optional Worcestershire sauce can omit or replace with a vegetarian version

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet
  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add 3 to 4 thinly sliced yellow onions, a pinch of sugar, and salt. Stir occasionally for 20–25 minutes until caramelized.
  3. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta and sauté for about 2 minutes.
  5. Fold in 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and black pepper to taste.
  6. Pour in 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring well to combine.
  7. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
  8. Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese until melted.
  9. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  10. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella on top of the casserole mixture.
  11. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  12. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Consider pairing with a green salad or a crunchy crusty loaf to round out the meal.

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