French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole that Melts in Your Mouth
A creamy, baked dish combining caramelized onions, tender shredded chicken, and cheesy orzo for a comforting weeknight meal. Layered with umami-rich flavors and a golden-baked finish.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyère (or Parmesan)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Heat butter and oil in a large skillet; cook onions with sugar and salt 15-20 minutes until caramelized
- Add garlic; cook 1 minute
- Cook orzo in salted water until al dente; drain
- In a baking dish, mix orzo, caramelized onions, shredded chicken, thyme, and pepper
- Pour chicken broth and heavy cream over the mixture
- Top with mozzarella and Gruyère cheese layers
- Bake 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly
- Let rest 10 minutes before serving
Notes
Use gluten-free orzo for a GF option
Fresh thyme sprigs as a garnish
Rotisserie chicken saves prep time
Caramelize onions patiently for maximum flavor
Broth can be substituted with cauliflower puree for a dairy-free version
Fresh thyme sprigs as a garnish
Rotisserie chicken saves prep time
Caramelize onions patiently for maximum flavor
Broth can be substituted with cauliflower puree for a dairy-free version
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 3mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g
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