why make this recipe
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with hearty chicken and orzo pasta. This casserole is not only comforting but also easy to prepare. It offers a wonderful balance of creamy texture and savory taste, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Plus, using rotisserie chicken saves time and effort, making it a great weeknight meal option.
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 :
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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 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.
how to serve French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Serve this casserole warm, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for extra flavor and presentation.
how to store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave. If you want to freeze it, cover it tightly and store it for up to 2 months. Reheat it directly from frozen in a preheated oven.
tips to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
- For enhanced flavor, let the onions caramelize until they are dark and sweet.
- If you want a lighter casserole, use half and half instead of heavy cream.
- Feel free to add in some vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
variation
You can customize this recipe by adding different proteins, such as cooked sausage or shrimp. You can also experiment with different cheeses, like cheddar or gouda, for a unique twist.
FAQs
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Can I use regular pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with any small pasta shape like couscous or small shells. -
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This casserole is great for meal prep. Just make it ahead of time and reheat when you’re ready to eat. -
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a hearty vegetarian option. You can add more vegetables for extra flavor!
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful casserole blending the rich flavors of French onion soup with hearty chicken and orzo pasta, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
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
- 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.
Notes
For enhanced flavor, let the onions caramelize until they are dark and sweet. You can customize this recipe by adding different proteins or cheeses for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French