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French Onion Chicken Orzo: Cozy Oven-Baked Casserole

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A rich, cheesy casserole blending caramelized onions, shredded chicken, creamy orzo, and melty Gruyère — inspired by French onion soup, made for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo
  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tsp fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a skillet, caramelize onions in butter and oil over medium-low heat, 30–40 minutes. Add garlic and thyme in the last 5 minutes.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. In a large bowl, mix chicken, orzo, onions, broth, cream, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour into baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes.
  5. Uncover, stir gently, and top with cheese. Bake another 10–12 minutes, then broil for 1–2 minutes if desired.
  6. Rest for 10 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Make ahead and refrigerate unbaked for up to 1 day.
  • Add spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
  • Use gluten-free orzo if needed.