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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

A comforting dish that combines caramelized onions, tender chicken, and orzo pasta, bringing the flavors of French onion soup into a cozy casserole.
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Temps de préparation 10 minutes
Temps de cuisson 50 minutes
Temps total 1 heure
Portions: 6 servings
Type de plat: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, French
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingrédients
  

For the casserole
  • 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)
  • 1.5 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)
  • 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (optional, for added depth)

Method
 

Caramelize the Onions
  1. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes.
Add Orzo and Chicken
  1. Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast.
  2. Add the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix well.
Pour in Liquids
  1. Add the chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
Add Cheese
  1. Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
Bake the Casserole
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella over the top.
  3. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Serve
  1. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

Serve warm right out of the oven. Pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread. Extra herbs can enhance flavor when serving. For sweeter onions, cook them slowly and patiently. Using rotisserie chicken saves time. You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. A splash of white wine when caramelizing the onions gives extra flavor.