French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
A comforting casserole that blends the rich flavors of French onion soup with chicken and creamy orzo pasta, perfect for family dinners and meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken (diced)
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 large onions (caramelized) Ensure onions are well caramelized for enhanced flavor.
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with dairy-free cream for a lighter option.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., Gruyère or mozzarella) Any cheese can be used; Gruyère and mozzarella give a gooey texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh thyme (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and add diced chicken. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned.
- Add the caramelized onions and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Stir in the orzo, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Mix well.
Baking
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.
Notes
This casserole is best served warm. It can be paired with a side salad and crusty bread. For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs while cooking the chicken. You can add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms before baking.