Why Make This Recipe
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions with tender chicken and creamy orzo pasta. It’s a perfect choice for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. This casserole is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great weeknight meal.
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:
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.
Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire if using. Mix well.
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.
Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
Bake the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
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 casserole is best served warm right out of the oven. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s a satisfying meal on its own but can also be enjoyed with your favorite vegetables or a light dessert.
How to Store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Tips to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
- For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.
- If you prefer a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables, such as peas or spinach, for added nutrition.
Variation
You can easily customize this casserole by using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda. You can also substitute the chicken with cooked sausage or tofu for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells, but cooking times may vary.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth. You can also add additional vegetables to make it heartier.
Print
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Contains Poultry
Description
A delightful and comforting casserole combining caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo pasta, perfect for family dinners.
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
- 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
Instructions
- 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.
- Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire if using. Mix well.
- 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.
- Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, add fresh herbs. For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Customize with different cheeses or proteins as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: casserole, chicken, orzo, onion, creamy, dinner