French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a cozy and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions with tender chicken and creamy orzo pasta. This recipe is great for a family dinner or a potluck, as it’s hearty and filling. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a wonderful choice for busy weeknights.

How to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Ingredients:

• 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)

Directions:

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 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 well.

   
   
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 Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.

   
   
5. 
   

   Bake the Casserole: Preheat the 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 on top.

   
   
6. 
   

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

   
   

How to Serve French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

This dish is best served warm. You can enjoy it as a main course on its own or pair it with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to Store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave.

Tips to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

• For deeper flavors, try adding herbs like rosemary or bay leaves during the cooking process.
• Make sure to stir the orzo frequently while it simmers to prevent it from sticking.
• For extra creaminess, use more heavy cream or add a splash of milk before serving.

Variation

You can customize this casserole by adding vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. If you’re looking for a lighter version, swap out the heavy cream for a lower-fat option or use less cheese.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up until the baking step. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake when you’re ready to serve.

What if I don’t have rotisserie chicken?
You can use any leftover cooked chicken or poach some chicken breasts. Just shred it before adding it to the casserole.

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