French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe

Introduction

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the rich sweetness of caramelized onions with tender chicken and creamy orzo pasta. This hearty casserole is perfect for a cozy meal and easy enough for weeknight 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 (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)

Instructions

1. Step 1: 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 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking.
2. Step 2: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze if using. Mix well to combine.
3. Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
4. Step 4: Stir in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the mixture is creamy.
5. Step 5: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden.
6. Step 6: Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired, then enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute half and half for the heavy cream.
• Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
• Try adding mushrooms or fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for additional depth.
• If you prefer a richer flavor, add a splash of sherry or white wine during the onion caramelizing step.
• Make sure to stir the orzo occasionally while cooking so it doesn’t stick to the pan.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight. When ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

What can I use instead of orzo pasta?

You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, small shells, or even rice, though cooking times may vary.

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 51 reviews

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines the rich, caramelized flavor of slow-cooked onions with tender shredded chicken, creamy cheeses, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. It’s a comforting, hearty casserole that brings together the classic French onion soup taste in a delightful baked pasta dish, perfect for a cozy family dinner.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Sauté 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

Main Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (optional)

Liquids

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for a lighter option)

Cheese

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided: 1 cup and 1/2 cup)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

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 along with the sugar and salt. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become deeply golden and caramelized. Add the minced garlic during the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking and stir to combine.
2. Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook it for about 2 minutes to lightly toast it in the onion mixture. Then add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze if using. Mix everything well to combine.
3. Pour in Liquids: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and cooked through.
4. Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheeses have melted fully, creating a creamy mixture.
5. Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

• You can substitute half and half for the heavy cream to reduce richness.
• Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor, but any cooked shredded chicken will work.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead.
• If you like a deeper flavor, the optional Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze adds a nice touch.
• Be patient caramelizing the onions; this step is key to developing the signature French onion flavor.
• Make sure the casserole rests after baking to allow it to set and cool slightly for easier serving.

Keywords: French onion chicken casserole, orzo casserole, baked orzo chicken, caramelized onion casserole, comfort food