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In the realm of comfort food, few dishes can compete with the rich and satisfying flavors of a creamy casserole. The Creamy Monterey Chicken Orzo Holiday Casserole not only serves as a delightful main course but also brings a touch of festive cheer to any gathering. This one-pot meal combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and al dente orzo pasta, making it a perfect choice for holiday celebrations or family dinners. As we dive into this recipe, you will discover the origins and appeal of casseroles, explore the ingredients that make this dish shine, and follow a step-by-step guide to create your own culinary masterpiece.

Creamy Monterey Chicken Orzo Holiday Casserole

Elevate your midday meals with a low-carb lunch thats both satisfying and protein-packed. This Creamy Monterey Chicken Orzo Holiday Casserole combines tender chicken and creamy sauce for a taste that delights without the carbs. Perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy family dinner, this dish offers warmth and flavor. Afterka fans will love this twist! LowCarbLunch ProteinPackedLunch ComfortFood CasseroleRecipes HolidayCooking HealthyEating DinnerIdeas

Ingredients
  

2 cups orzo pasta

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded

1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

1 cup cream of chicken soup

1 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 cup diced green bell pepper

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

2 tbsp olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, shredded chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, green and red bell peppers, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

        Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the mixture to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

          Transfer the orzo and chicken mixture to a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for added crunch.

            Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

              Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

                Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 55 mins | Servings: 6