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Delicious French onion chicken casserole topped with crispy onions and melted cheese.

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

This comforting casserole combines the savory flavors of French onion soup with tender chicken and creamy orzo, making it a cozy weeknight meal that's easy to prepare.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the casserole
  • 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs Thighs are more forgiving and stay juicy.
  • 1 cup orzo pasta Provides the starch in the casserole.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter For cooking the onions.
  • 3 medium onions Thinly sliced.
  • 2 cups low sodium chicken broth Quality broth is key to flavor.
  • 1 cup shredded cheese Swiss, mozzarella, or Gruyere recommended.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder For seasoning the chicken.
  • 1 pinch salt To taste.
  • 1 pinch pepper To taste.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add sliced onions with a pinch of salt and cook for 15-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until deep golden and sweet.
  4. While onions are cooking, season chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Once onions are ready, stir in the chicken broth and orzo pasta.
  6. Combine the cooked onions and broth mix with the chicken in a casserole dish.
  7. Top with shredded cheese.
Baking
  1. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Notes

For the best flavor, use a quality broth and be patient with the onions. If using store-bought French onion soup, reduce added salt. Leftovers are delicious and can be reheated easily.