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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Savory French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole for Cozy Nights

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a creamy, comforting twist on a classic, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts Thighs for more flavor and tenderness.
  • 3 Yellow Onions Large, sweet onions for best results.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Serves as the hearty base.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Opt for low-sodium for better control over seasoning.
  • 1 cup Gruyère Cheese Nutty, melty cheese; can swap in Swiss or mozzarella.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter For caramelizing the onions.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil For caramelizing the onions.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme Provides a touch of herbaceous freshness.
  • to taste Salt and Black Pepper For seasoning.
For Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 cup Sautéed Mushrooms For a vegetarian adaptation.
  • 1 cup Spinach For a vegetarian adaptation.
  • 4 slices Crumbled Bacon For added smokiness.

Equipment

  • large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add 3 sliced yellow onions, stirring occasionally for about 30-40 minutes until golden brown and caramelized.
  2. Season 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts with salt and black pepper, then sear in a separate skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil for 5-7 minutes.
  3. Once the onions are caramelized, pour in 2 cups of beef broth to deglaze the skillet. Stir in 1 cup of orzo pasta, 1 cup of heavy cream, and fresh thyme, then add the browned chicken.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Stir in half of 1 cup of grated Gruyère cheese until melted. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and bake for 20-25 minutes.
  5. Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with additional thyme or parsley if desired and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until ready to bake. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream to prevent drying out.

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