French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

In this delightful French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, comfort food reaches a new level. Picture this: tender orzo pasta enveloped in a creamy sauce, with the rich sweetness of caramelized onions and savory chicken taking center stage. It’s a one-pan dish that’s perfect for weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something warm and filling. As you bring it out of the oven, the golden cheese topping bubbles and beckons, promising an explosion of flavors in every bite. Doesn’t that sound divine?

What Makes This Recipe Special

There are plenty of reasons why this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole will become a staple in your kitchen. First off, it brings together the comfort of classic French onion soup and the heartiness of a chicken dinner. The luscious cream and melted cheese create a dish that feels sophisticated yet is incredibly approachable for home cooks of all levels.

Imagine the first bite — the sweetness of caramelized onions balances perfectly with the richness of the cheese and the tender chicken. It’s kid-approved and a hit for dinner gatherings, making it an all-around crowd-pleaser.

"This casserole has quickly become a weeknight favorite! The flavors remind us of a cozy bistro meal without the hassle. Love it!" — Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Making French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is simpler than it sounds! Just follow this easy step-by-step overview to navigate your way through the cooking process:

1. Start by caramelizing onions in butter and olive oil.
2. Stir in orzo, followed by shredded chicken and seasonings.
3. Pour in chicken broth and cream, then simmer until the orzo is cooked.
4. Mix in cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Add a cheesy topping and bake until bubbly.

In just a bit, you’ll see how easy it is to create this delightful dish right at home!

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! Here’s the shopping list for your French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole:

• 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 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 swap in alternatives if needed! For example, you could use cauliflower or whole wheat orzo for a healthier twist.

Step-by-Step Directions

Ready to bring this delicious casserole to life? Here’s how to do it:

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 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Add the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix everything well.

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

4. Incorporate cheese: Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.

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

6. Serve: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for an extra touch!

Perfect Pairings for French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Now that your delicious casserole is ready, how do you serve it? Here are some tasty ideas:

• Salads: A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole.
• Bread: Crusty French bread or a warm baguette is ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Veggies: Roasted or steamed vegetables, like green beans or broccoli, add color and nutritional value to your meal.

Feel free to play around with flavors and colors on your plate!

Best Way to Store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

If there are leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), you’ll want to know how to properly store your casserole:

• Refrigeration: Let it cool completely, then cover tightly and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Place cooled portions in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with the date for your convenience.
• Reheating: Reheat portions in the microwave, or for best results, warm in the oven until heated through.

Always remember to handle food safely to avoid any health risks!

Pro Chef Tips

Here are some insider tips to elevate your casserole game:

• Caramelizing onions: This step is key! Take your time to achieve that deep, rich flavor.
• Orzo alternatives: If orzo isn’t available, consider using other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
• Cheese options: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, mixing in some Gouda or Gruyère can give it an exceptional flavor boost.

Incorporate these pro tips for a dish that dazzles!

Creative Twists

Want to switch things up? Here are a few variations to consider for your next French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole:

• Herb infusions: Try fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for added complexity.
• Spicy kick: Incorporate some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a bit of heat.
• Vegetarian version: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth to maintain the richness.

Experimenting is half the fun!

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make this casserole?

The total time for preparation and baking is about 1 hour, including caramelizing the onions and baking the casserole.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just remember that you may need to adjust the cooking time if it’s chilled.

Is it safe to freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just ensure it’s fully cooled before packaging, and use within 3 months for the best flavor.

With all these tips and insights, you’re now equipped to create a memorable meal that your friends and family will adore. Enjoy cooking this fantastic French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole!

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

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• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A delightful one-pan dish featuring tender orzo pasta enveloped in a creamy sauce with caramelized onions and savory chicken, topped with melted cheese.

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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
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 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. Melt the butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet. Caramelize onions with sugar and salt until golden brown, about 20 to 25 minutes. Add minced garlic for the last 2 minutes.
2. Stir in the orzo and toast for 2 minutes. Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using).
3. Add chicken broth and cream, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until orzo is tender.
4. Mix in 1 cup of mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Top with remaining mozzarella and bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
6. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: casserole, chicken, French onion, comfort food, weeknight dinner