Name: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 cups sliced onions; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is the cozy dish we all need on chilly evenings. It brings together the hearty flavors of French onion soup with tender orzo and chicken. Imagine spooning up creamy pasta, sweet caramelized onions, and melty cheese all in one. It’s pure comfort food! Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.

why make this recipe

This casserole is rich and comforting. The caramelized onions add a depth of flavor that makes it feel special. It’s a one-pan recipe, so clean-up is a breeze. You can throw it together with ingredients you likely already have. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, this is a great way to use it up. The kids and adults alike will be asking for seconds. Trust me, you’ll want to add this to your weekly dinner rotation!

how to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Let’s dive into this deliciousness. We’ll start by whipping up those sweet onions that set the tone for the dish.

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. Now, let them cook for about 20–25 minutes. Stir occasionally and watch as those onions transform into deep golden strands of joy. Just during the last minute or two, toss in the minced garlic to bring out its aromatic goodness.

Add Orzo and Chicken

Now it’s time for the orzo! Stir it in and let it toast for about 2 minutes. The warmth will bring out its nuttiness. Next, add in the shredded chicken, dried thyme, and pepper. You can also splash in a bit of Worcestershire sauce if you want to enhance that savory flavor. Give everything a good mix.

Pour in Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Make sure to reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is perfectly tender.

Add Cheese

Once that orzo is cooked, it’s time to make this dish creamy! Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is melted and luscious.

Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top of the casserole. Pop it in the oven uncovered and bake for 10–15 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden brown.

Serve

After baking, let it rest for about 5–10 minutes. This helps the flavors meld even more. You can garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you want to make it extra special.

how to serve French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Serve this casserole straight from the oven to your table. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread. I love serving this with my buttery garlic breadsticks for a complete meal.

how to store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), let the casserole cool completely. Then, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave. Just add a splash of chicken broth to keep it nice and creamy.

tips to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Don’t rush the caramelization process. It makes a huge difference in flavor.
If you like a bit of crunch, top it off with breadcrumbs before baking.
For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
Feel free to sneak in some veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition. You might like to serve this alongside some homemade roasted vegetables too.

variation

You can easily make this dish your own. Swap out the chicken for shredded beef if you’re in the mood. Or, go meatless with some sautéed mushrooms and extra veggies. The base remains the same, but the flavors shift to fit your taste.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! You can use any small pasta shape like ditalini or even small shells. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes! You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. Just make sure it’s completely cooled, wrap it tightly, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.

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