French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole warms the heart and soul with each delicious bite. Imagine coming home after a long day, and the cozy aroma of caramelized onions fills the air. This recipe brings comfort food to life, combining savory chicken, creamy orzo, and a melty cheese topping that’s irresistible.
Why Make This Recipe
This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is not just delicious; it’s also easy to make and perfect for any night of the week. The combination of caramelized onions and shredded chicken gives it a rich flavor, reminiscent of the classic French onion soup, but in a hearty casserole form. Not only will this meal warm you up during chilly evenings, but it also comes together quickly, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. Plus, it uses everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
How to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Ready to create this comforting dish? Let’s dive right into the steps for making French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole. You’ll be amazed at how simple and rewarding it is!
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
Start by melting the butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook these lovely ingredients for about 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want to achieve a deep golden caramelization, which brings out the natural sweetness of the onions. In the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking, stir in the minced garlic to release its aroma without burning it.
Add Orzo and Chicken
Once the onions are beautifully caramelized, stir in the orzo pasta and toast it lightly for about 2 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of the orzo. Next, add the cooked shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if you’re using it. Mix this all together thoroughly.
Pour in Liquids
Now, it’s time to pour in the liquids! Add the chicken broth and cream to the skillet. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the orzo cooks evenly and absorbs all those flavors.
Add Cheese
After the orzo has cooked and is tender, stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until the cheeses melt, creating a creamy and cheesy sauce that binds the ingredients together.
Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella over the top of the orzo mixture. Bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Serve
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes. This allows it to set a bit, making it easier to serve. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired. Serve this dish with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up those delicious flavors!
How to Store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This casserole keeps well for about 3–4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. It makes for a perfect lunch the next day!
Tips to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For quick preparation, using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. You want the flavors to shine.
- Experiment with Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, mixing in some Gruyère or cheddar can elevate the flavor profile.
Variations
Feel free to customize this casserole to suit your tastes! You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more nutrients. If you want to make it lighter, substitute heavy cream with half and half or even a plant-based milk.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|——————-|——————–|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Onion Caramelization: Don’t rush the onion caramelizing process. It’s what gives your casserole its rich flavor.
- Overcooking the Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo when simmering to prevent mushiness.
- Not Letting it Rest: Allow the casserole to sit after baking for easier serving.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat orzo?
Yes, you can use whole wheat orzo for a healthier option. Just keep an eye on cooking times as it may vary.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Swap the chicken for cooked lentils or add more vegetables, and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Conclusion
You’re now ready to impress your family and friends with French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole! This dish has the perfect balance of comfort and flavor, making it a great choice for family dinners or special occasions. If you enjoyed this recipe, please take a moment to rate it 5 stars and share it with your friends! You can also try similar recipes like cheesy chicken pasta or creamy one-pot meals. Happy cooking!
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Melt the butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for about 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deep golden brown. Stir in the minced garlic in the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it lightly for about 2 minutes. Then, add the cooked shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix thoroughly.
- Add the chicken broth and cream to the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- After the orzo is tender, stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired, and serve with a side salad or crusty bread.
