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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole: Cozy One-Pan Delight

Discover the comforting French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, a hearty, creamy, and delicious one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Adds richness and aids in caramelizing the onions.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Prevents butter from burning and enhances flavor.
  • 3 large yellow onions Sweet and caramelizes beautifully.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar Promotes caramelization of the onions.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced, adds depth.
  • 1 cup orzo pasta Absorbs the creamy sauce.
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken E.g., rotisserie chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme Offers herbaceous notes.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds warming spice.
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth Infuses depth and moisture.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Ensures a luscious texture.
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Melts into the casserole.
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese Adds salty and nutty flavor.
  • optional Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze for added flavor.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 sliced yellow onions, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Cook for 20-25 minutes until caramelized.
  2. Season 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken with salt and black pepper. In another skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Deglaze the first skillet with 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Stir in 1 cup of orzo pasta, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and the chicken. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Stir in half of the 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese into the orzo mixture, transfer to a greased baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes.
  5. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 105mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Choose sweet onions for better caramelization. Don't rush the caramelizing process and taste throughout for best flavor adjustments.

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