French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole: Cozy Comfort in a Dish

A comforting and simple French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, perfect for cozy dinners and weeknight meals.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Resting Time 5

Total Time 50

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: French

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 cups Shredded Rotisserie Chicken This offers convenience and is perfect for a quick meal prep.

For the Orzo

1 ½ cups Standard Orzo Pasta It absorbs the flavors beautifully, avoid quick-cook options.

For the Onions

3 large Sweet Onions Ideal for caramelization, their mild taste enhances the dish.

For Cooking

2 tablespoons Butter Adds richness and depth to the casserole.
3 cloves Fresh Minced Garlic Elevates flavor; fresh garlic always delivers better results.

For the Sauce

1 cups Heavy Cream Makes the casserole luxuriously creamy.
1 cups Chicken Broth Provides moisture and flavor.

For Seasoning

to taste Salt Adjust to your taste.
to taste Pepper Essential for balancing flavors.
1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme Adds a vibrant touch.

For the Topping

1 ½ cups Mozzarella Cheese Creates a gooey topping everyone loves.
½ cup Parmesan Cheese Adds a savory, nutty flavor.

Equipment

Oven-safe skillet

Method

Cooking Steps

Caramelize Onions: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat in an oven-safe skillet. Add 3 sliced sweet onions, sauté for 30–40 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
Add Garlic and Chicken: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, cook for 1-2 minutes, then add 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, mixing thoroughly.
Incorporate Orzo and Cream: Mix in 1 ½ cups of cooked orzo. Gradually pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring gently until combined.
Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, adjusting to taste.
Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture.
Bake in the Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Let Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow onions to caramelize slowly for best flavor; consider adding spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

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