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Creamy French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

A comforting blend of rich flavors and heartwarming textures, this casserole combines caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo pasta for a delightful family dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Casserole, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces Choose organic for the best taste and texture.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Extra virgin for flavor
  • 1 tablespoon butter Room temperature for easy melting
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar To help caramelize the onions
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic For that aromatic zing
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta Perfectly chewy texture
  • 2 cups low sodium chicken broth For depth of flavor
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup heavy cream The magic ingredient for creaminess!
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 ounce dry French onion soup mix Adds that classic flavor
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese For a nutty flavor
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese For a flavorful finish
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves Contributes brightness
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the sliced onions and sugar, cooking for 10-12 minutes until golden and caramelized.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Push the onions to one side of the skillet, add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until lightly browned but not fully cooked.
  5. Mix in orzo, chicken broth, water, and dry French onion soup mix. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Lower the heat, add heavy cream, sour cream, half of the shredded Gruyere, and all of the Parmesan and thyme leaves. Stir and season with salt and pepper.
  7. Pour the mixture into a prepared 9x13 baking dish, spread evenly, and top with remaining Gruyere cheese.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the orzo is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  2. Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Enjoy as a light dish or with crusty bread.