French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole embodies comfort in every bite. It’s a delightful amalgamation of rich, caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo, all baked to perfection. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering of family and friends, this dish promises both satisfaction and a hint of elegance. I can still remember the first time I made it — the aroma of caramelizing onions filling my kitchen was simply irresistible. Not to mention, it’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

What Makes This Recipe Special

You might be wondering, what sets this recipe apart from your average casserole? For starters, French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is the epitome of comfort food done right. It’s quick to assemble, making it a perfect choice for those busy weeknights when you need a fulfilling meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the use of rotisserie chicken keeps it budget-friendly and adds a burst of flavor.

Imagine gathering around the dining table with your loved ones, sharing stories, and savoring each spoonful of this creamy delight. This dish doesn’t just feed the belly; it warms the heart. One satisfied cook even said, “This casserole is a game changer! My kids devoured it, and I love how easy it is to make.” That’s the kind of family-friendly reassurance that keeps you coming back for more!

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Creating this mouthwatering casserole is a breeze! Here’s a quick overview of how it all comes together:

1. You’ll start by caramelizing those sweet onions, letting their natural sugars enhance the flavor.
2. Next, you’ll toast the orzo and introduce the shredded chicken and seasonings.
3. After adding the liquid ingredients, you’ll let it simmer gently to let the flavors meld together.
4. Finally, cheese will make its grand entrance, adding that crave-worthy creaminess before it goes into the oven.

Each step is straightforward, ensuring that even novice cooks can master this dish.

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole:

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• 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 chicken (rotisserie works well)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for a lighter option)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (for added depth)

Note: Feel free to substitute the chicken with any leftover meat, or even make it vegetarian with mushrooms!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes.

2. Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir in the orzo and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Then, mix in the shredded chicken, thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using.

3. Pour in Liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.

4. Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy.

5. Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

6. Serve: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Tips for Serving

When it comes to serving your French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread. The freshness of a salad complements the richness of the casserole perfectly. If you’re hosting, presentation can elevate the meal; serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic, homey feel or transfer it to a beautiful casserole dish to impress your guests.

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? No problem! This casserole stores beautifully. After it cools, transfer any remaining casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Pro Chef Tips

• Caramelization: Patience is key. The longer you allow the onions to caramelize, the deeper their flavor will be. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
• Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s flavorful and shreds easily, making your prep a breeze.
• Creaminess Options: If you’re looking for a lighter version, swapping heavy cream for half and half achieves a lovely creaminess without being overly rich.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? There are countless ways to put a spin on this recipe. Consider adding spinach or kale for a nutritious boost or substituting the orzo with quinoa for a gluten-free alternative. You can also experiment with different cheeses; a sharp cheddar could add a delightful zing, or crumbled goat cheese for a sophisticated twist.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make this casserole?

This recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, making it a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While orzo works wonderfully, feel free to experiment with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells.

Is it safe to reheat leftovers?

Yes, once cooled, the casserole can be stored safely in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just ensure it’s heated to the proper temperature of 165°F (74°C) when reheating.

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get started on this deliciously comforting dish! Happy cooking!

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A deliciously comforting casserole combining caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo, all baked to perfection.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 chicken (rotisserie works well)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for a lighter option)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze

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Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes.
2. Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir in the orzo and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Then, mix in the shredded chicken, thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using.
3. Pour in Liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
4. Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy.
5. Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
6. Serve: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

Pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. Stores well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: casserole, comfort food, chicken, orzo, French onion, family meal, easy dinner