French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the rich flavors of caramelized onions and gooey cheese in a hearty, delectable dish. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a chilly autumn evening, searching for something warm and satisfying. What sets this casserole apart is the clever combination of tender orzo and shredded chicken, creating a meal that’s not only filling but also deliciously reminiscent of classic French onion soup. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just craving a cozy night in, this dish is sure to embrace you in its warm, cheesy goodness.

Why You’ll Love Making It

What makes this recipe truly special? It’s all about the layers of flavor and simplicity. This casserole is quick to prepare, making it the perfect choice for weeknight dinners or gatherings. It’s also budget-friendly—using rotisserie chicken, onions, and simple pantry staples, you can whip up a magnificent meal without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s a surefire hit with kids and picky eaters, who can’t resist the creamy texture and cheesy topping.

“I made this casserole for a family gathering, and it was a total win! Everyone went back for seconds, and I happily took home an empty dish!” – Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Ready to dive into the world of French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole? This dish is straightforward and satisfying, perfect for even novice cooks. You’ll start with caramelizing onions to unlock their natural sweetness, then mix in the orzo and chicken before finally baking it all to bubbling perfection. It’s an uncomplicated process that delivers big on flavor!

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:

• 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 great)
• 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

Feel free to mix and match these ingredients based on what you have on hand!

Cooking Steps

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

2. Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir in the orzo, allowing it to toast lightly for about 2 minutes. Then add the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, if you’re using it. Mix everything well.

3. Pour in Liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Reduce the 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 Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy.

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

6. Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. A sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley enhances the presentation.

Tips for Serving

This casserole is exceptionally versatile. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad drizzled with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or crusty garlic bread. And if you want a heartwarming touch, a side of French bread could nicely complement the dish’s flavors.

Best Way to Store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

To keep your leftovers fresh, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until it’s warmed through.

Pro Chef Tips

• Caramelizing Onions: Be patient! Slowly cooked onions develop that rich, sweet flavor we love, so don’t rush this step.
• Cooking Orzo: (Check your orzo package for specific cooking times, as they may vary).
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses—Gruyère or fontina can add an extra layer of deliciousness.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Try adding mushrooms or spinach for a nutrient boost. For a kick, consider incorporating red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with different herbs, swapping out thyme for rosemary or fresh parsley for a refreshing twist on the classic flavors.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare?

The total prep and cook time for this casserole is around 45 minutes, making it great for a weekday meal.

Can I substitute other types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any small pasta shape you prefer, such as fregola or ditalini, although you may need to adjust cooking times slightly.

How do I ensure my stored casserole stays fresh?

Make sure to store it in an airtight container, and remember to let it cool completely before refrigerating. This prevents condensation and retains the casserole’s intended texture.

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole blend of comfort and ease is bound to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire. Enjoy every delicious bite!

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A hearty casserole blending caramelized onions with tender orzo and shredded chicken, topped with gooey cheese—a comforting twist on classic French onion soup.

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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 great)
• 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

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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 the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are beautifully caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic for the last 1-2 minutes.
2. Add orzo and chicken: Stir in the orzo, allowing it to toast lightly for about 2 minutes. Then add the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, if you’re using it. Mix everything well.
3. Pour in liquids: Add the chicken broth and cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Reduce the 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 Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy.
5. Bake the casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining half cup of mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
6. Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. A sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley enhances the presentation.

Notes

Pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables. Consider serving with crusty garlic bread or French bread for a complete meal.

• 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: 600mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: French Onion, Casserole, Chicken, Orzo, Comfort Food