French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole: A Comforting Delicacy
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a memorable twist on the classic French onion soup, bringing together rich flavors and comforting textures into a dish that’s sure to please everyone around the dinner table.
Why Make This Recipe
This casserole combines the deep, smoky sweetness of caramelized onions with tender chicken and nutty orzo, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, offering a hearty yet simple option that can be made in one pan. The combination of ingredients makes it not only comforting and satisfying but also visually appealing, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.
How to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Cooking this delicious casserole is straightforward, filled with succulent ingredients that meld beautifully. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your very own 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
- 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
Directions
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
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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.
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Serve: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Pro Tips for Success: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
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Don’t Rush the Onions: Allow the onions to caramelize slowly for the best flavor. This process adds a depth of sweetness that enhances the entire dish.
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Use Leftover Chicken: Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly, saving you time in the kitchen.
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Keep an Eye on the Broth: Different brands of chicken broth may have varying sodium levels, so adjust the amount of salt you add based on your preference.
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Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyère or fontina can add a unique flavor profile.
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Cover for Cooking: Make sure to cover the skillet when simmering the orzo. This helps it cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors.
Flavor Variations: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
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Add Vegetables: Throw in some spinach or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or serve with a hot sauce on the side.
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Herb Variations: Swap thyme for rosemary or add fresh herbs like basil for a fresh twist.
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Cheesy Goodness: For an ultra-cheesy experience, mix in some cream cheese or ricotta before baking for extra creaminess.
Serving Suggestions: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A side of crusty bread pairs beautifully, perfect for sopping up any leftover creamy sauce. For a cozy dinner, consider serving it alongside a glass of white wine or a refreshing sparkling water.
Storage and Freezing Instructions: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
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Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
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Freezing: If you want to make this dish ahead, you can freeze it before baking. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|———–|———-|
| Calories | 600 |
| Protein | 36g |
| Carbs | 50g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 750mg |
FAQ About French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo works wonderfully in this dish, you can also use other small pasta shapes like ditalini, fusilli, or macaroni. Just ensure to adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt. This will change the texture slightly but will still provide creaminess.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add some cooked lentils or chickpeas for protein and consider including sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this casserole is excellent for meal prep! Cook, divide into individual portions, and store in containers for quick lunches or weeknight dinners. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole earlier in the day or even the night before. Simply store it covered in the fridge and bake it before serving.
Final Thoughts
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that warms hearts and satisfies hunger. Try this recipe for an easy, comforting dinner that brings the whole family together. Enjoy the culinary journey of creating this delicious dish, and don’t hesitate to add your own twists along the way!
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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A memorable twist on classic French onion soup, combining caramelized onions, tender chicken, and nutty orzo in a creamy, cheesy 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
- 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 butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes until caramelized.
- Stir in the minced garlic for the last 1–2 minutes.
- Stir in orzo and lightly toast for 2 minutes.
- Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix well.
- Add chicken broth and cream, bringing to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top, and bake for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
For added flavor, consider adding vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms. You can also substitute different types of cheese for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French