Name: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French
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

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why make this recipe

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a delightful mix of flavors that brings comfort food to a new level. This dish combines the rich taste of caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo in one pot. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, and it’s easy to prepare. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken, and the cheesy topping makes it irresistible!

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

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is best served warm. You can serve it directly from the baking dish. If desired, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a touch of color and flavor. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread on the side.

how to store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

To store any leftovers, let the casserole cool down completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last for about 3–4 days in the fridge. You can also freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, just pop it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

tips to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

For more flavor, use homemade chicken broth if you have it.
Make sure to stir the orzo occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking.
If you want more texture, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Adjust the cheese to your preference; mix in different cheeses for added flavor.

variation

You can easily make this casserole vegetarian by omitting the chicken and replacing the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or peas for a nutritious boost.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken instead of shredded chicken?
Yes, you can use uncooked chicken. Just cut it into small pieces and add it to the skillet when you start cooking the onions. Make sure to cook it thoroughly before mixing in the other ingredients.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up until the baking step and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of orzo?
If you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta shapes like macaroni or ditalini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you use.

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Author: alhaouil
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful mix of caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo, perfect for family dinners.

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.