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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines caramelized onions, chicken, creamy orzo, and cheese.The orzo cooks in chicken broth and cream for a rich, tender texture.Finish it in the oven with mozzarella until bubbly and golden
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine French-Inspired American

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 large yellow onions thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • 2 cups cooked shredded halal chicken
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups low-sodium halal chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon balsamic glaze optional

Instructions
 

  • Add the butter and olive oil to a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven and place over medium heat.
  • Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft, deeply golden, and caramelized. Reduce the heat if they begin browning too quickly.
  • Stir in the minced garlic during the final 1–2 minutes of cooking.
  • Add the orzo and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, to lightly toast the pasta.
  • Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and optional balsamic glaze. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
  • Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking. Cook until the pasta is almost tender and the sauce has started to thicken.
  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Stir 1 cup of mozzarella and all of the Parmesan into the French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole until the cheese melts into the creamy sauce.
  • Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella evenly over the casserole.
  • Transfer the uncovered skillet to the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  • Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

Rotisserie-style chicken is an excellent shortcut as long as you choose a halal-certified option. Leftover roasted or poached chicken works just as well.
For an extra-cheesy French onion chicken casserole, sprinkle a little additional mozzarella over the top before baking.
If the casserole becomes thicker than you prefer, stir in a small amount of warm chicken broth or cream. For extra freshness, garnish each serving with chopped parsley or fresh thyme.