Description
Dive into this hearty French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, blending savory flavors and comforting textures in one dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken rotisserie works well
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half for lighter option
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze for added depth
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt; cook until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the orzo, shredded chicken, thyme, black pepper, chicken broth, and cream to the skillet; mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- If desired, drizzle with Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze before serving.
Notes
For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with half and half. Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner / Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: French-inspired / Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1½ cups
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg
Keywords: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, chicken casserole, orzo recipes, comfort food