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French Onion Chicken Orzo

Creamy French Onion Chicken Orzo for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

This French Onion Chicken Orzo is a comforting, one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights with delicious flavors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 620
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons butter Adds richness and flavor; substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps caramelize the onions; can be replaced with more butter.
  • 2 medium onions Caramelize for sweetness; use shallots for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup orzo The main pasta; use any small pasta shape if needed.
For the Flavor Boost
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Infuses umami depth; substitute with soy sauce or omit.
  • 3 cups beef broth Provides a savory foundation; swap for vegetable broth for vegetarian.
For the Creamy Finish
  • 4 ounces cream cheese Adds creaminess; substitute with ricotta or omit.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Contributes cheesy flavor; try grated Gouda for a twist.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Gives a delightful pull; substitute with cheddar for a sharper taste.
For the Protein and Crunch
  • 2 cups cooked chicken Essential for protein; swap for turkey or sautéed mushrooms.
  • ½ cup French fried onions Adds a crunchy finish; skip for a lighter dish.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add 2 sliced onions to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the butter and oil mixture. Reduce the heat to low-medium and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Once the onions are beautifully caramelized, add 1 cup of orzo, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 3 cups of beef broth. Stir to combine, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until al dente.
  4. Lower the heat and introduce 4 ounces of cream cheese, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheeses melt and create a smooth, creamy sauce.
  5. Fold in 2 cups of cooked chicken and ½ cup of French fried onions. Let it gently heat through for another 3-5 minutes.
  6. Serve warm, garnishing with additional fried onions if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 620kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For long-term storage, freeze for up to 2 months.

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