French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
A comforting casserole blending the flavors of French onion soup with tender chicken and chewy orzo, perfect for cozy nights.
Ingredients
Casserole Base
- 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 works well
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half for a lighter option
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze for added depth
Instructions
Sauté the Onions
- Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sugar, stirring occasionally. Cook until the onions are soft and golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
Combine Flavors
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Mix in the Chicken and Orzo
- Stir in the orzo pasta, shredded chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is well combined.
Add the Liquids
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Bake to Perfection
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then cover with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For best flavor, use quality ingredients. Feel free to incorporate vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.