French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a warm and hearty dish that brings together the rich flavors of caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo pasta, all baked to perfection with a bubbling cheese topping. This comforting casserole is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that captures the essence of home cooking. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish guarantees satisfaction with every delicious bite.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 540
• Protein: 32 grams
• Carbohydrates: 52 grams
• Fat: 24 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Sugar: 4 grams
• Sodium: 650 mg

Why Make This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

There are countless reasons to whip up this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole. First, it’s rich and creamy, making it a standout dish on any table. The sweet, caramelized onions lend a deep flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and chewy orzo. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means less cleanup for you. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family night or impressing guests at a dinner party, this casserole is sure to be a hit.

How to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Step 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, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. This step is crucial, as the caramelization process creates a rich, sweet flavor that forms the foundation of the dish. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes to infuse even more aromatic goodness.

Step 2: Add Orzo and Chicken

Once the onions are perfectly caramelized, stir in the orzo and cook for an additional 2 minutes to lightly toast it. This gives the orzo a delightfully nutty flavor. Mix in the cooked shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if you’re using it. Combining these ingredients ensures that every bite is flavorful and satisfying.

Step 3: Pour in Liquids

Next, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mix to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the orzo to absorb the flavors and cook until it’s tender and creamy.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheeses melt into the dish, making it a gooey, creamy delight.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a burst of color and added flavor if desired.

How to Serve French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Serve this casserole warm, right out of the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. If you’re looking for something heartier, consider garlic bread or a side of roasted potatoes to round out the dinner experience.

How to Store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave on medium until heated through or place in a 350°F oven until warm. You can also freeze the casserole before baking for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking as instructed.

Expert Tips for Perfect French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for good-quality chicken broth and cheeses for the best flavor.
• Caramelize Carefully: Keep an eye on the onions as they cook to prevent burning. Stir frequently and adjust heat as necessary.
• Adjust Thickness: If the mixture seems too thick, add a bit more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
• Topping Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like Gruyère or cheddar, for a unique twist.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover tightly and store in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Delicious Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a tasty vegetarian twist.
• Herbed Twist: Add fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, to brighten up the flavors.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy variance that complements the sweet onions beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use different pasta instead of orzo?
  Yes, you can substitute orzo with other pasta shapes; however, adjust the cooking time accordingly as larger pasta may require more time to cook.

• Is this dish gluten-free?
  To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta option.

• Can I use rotisserie chicken?
  Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds fantastic flavor to the casserole.

• What can I substitute for heavy cream?
  If you’d like a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk. Just keep in mind that it will be slightly less rich.

• How can I make the casserole more flavorful?
  Adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even a splash of white wine can elevate the flavors significantly.

Conclusion

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making it an ideal comfort food. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a variety of occasions, whether you’re hosting a dinner or just seeking a cozy meal at home. With its creamy sauce and cheesy topping, this casserole promises to be a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy the warm, comforting embrace of this delicious dish!

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

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• Author: lydia
• Total Time: 55
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: N/A

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Description

A warm and hearty casserole featuring caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo pasta, all topped with bubbling cheese.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 large onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat and add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
2. Stir in the orzo and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Mix in the chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing to a simmer. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes.
4. Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top and bake for 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
6. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pair with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

• Prep Time: 15
• Cook Time: 40
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 60mg