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Recipe 2959f6eecf

Creamy French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

A comforting casserole that combines caramelized onions, chicken, and orzo pasta, all enveloped in a creamy sauce, topped with melted Gruyère cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners and easy meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Casserole, Main Course
Cuisine Comfort Food, French
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces lean and high in protein
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for heat stability
  • 1 tablespoon butter for silky flavor
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced the star of the show once caramelized
  • 1 teaspoon sugar helps speed caramelization
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic adds aroma and savoriness
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta swells into a risotto-like texture
  • 2 cups low sodium chicken broth for flavor control
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 ounce dry French onion soup mix shortcut to deep onion flavor
  • 1 cup heavy cream for richness
  • 1/2 cup sour cream for tang and creaminess
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese for melty nuttiness
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan for sharpness and salt balance
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves herbal brightness
  • Salt and pepper to taste season according to preference

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted.
  • Add sliced onion and sugar; cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and caramelized.
  • Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  • Push onions to one side and add chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  • Cook until the chicken is lightly browned, about 4–5 minutes.
  • Add uncooked orzo, chicken broth, water, and dry French onion soup mix; stir and simmer.
  • Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream, sour cream, half of the shredded Gruyere, grated Parmesan, and thyme; season to taste.
  • Pour into prepared baking dish, sprinkle remaining Gruyere on top, and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until orzo is tender and cheese is bubbly.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking to set. For a crispier top, finish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, French Onion Chicken, Meal Prep, Orzo Casserole
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