French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that combines the flavors of traditional French onion soup with tender chicken and pasta. This dish is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Each bite offers the sweet taste of caramelized onions, the heartiness of chicken, and the delightful texture of orzo pasta. It’s perfect for a family dinner or gathering with friends. Plus, it’s simple to make, which makes it a great option for busy weeknights.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole. First, it is comforting and warm. The creamy sauce and melted cheese create a perfect combination that warms your heart. Second, it is very satisfying. With orzo pasta, chicken, and cheese, this dish has everything you need to feel full and happy. Third, it is easy to prepare. You cook everything in one pan, making cleanup quick and enjoyable. Additionally, this recipe uses ingredients that are easy to find. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you can make this delicious casserole.

Moreover, this recipe is flexible. You can adjust the flavors to suit your taste. You can add more cheese if you love it cheesy, or include more herbs for added flavor. If you have left-over chicken in your fridge, it is a great way to use it up. The dish is also perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it later in the week. With so many benefits, it is no wonder this recipe is a favorite among home cooks.

How to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Making French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is simple and straightforward. Just follow the steps below to create your dish.

Ingredients

To make this flavorful casserole, you will need the following 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 a lighter option)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze

Directions

Now, let’s move on to the steps. Follow these simple directions to create your casserole:

1. Melt the Butter and Olive Oil
   Start by heating a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Let the butter melt completely.

2. Cook the Onions
   Once the butter is melted, add the 2 large yellow onions that have been thinly sliced, along with 1 teaspoon of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir well, and then cook the onions for about 20-25 minutes. You want them to become caramelized, which means they will turn a nice golden brown color and get wonderfully sweet.

3. Add the Garlic and Orzo
   After the onions are caramelized, add 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently so the garlic doesn’t burn. Now, add 1 1/2 cups of orzo pasta to the skillet. Cook the orzo for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

4. Mix in the Chicken and Seasonings
   Next, take 2 cups of already cooked shredded chicken and add it to the mixture. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience. Add 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. If you like a little extra flavor, consider adding the optional 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce.

5. Pour in the Broth and Cream
   Carefully pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream (or half and half for a lighter dish). Gently bring everything to a simmer. Once it’s simmering, cover the skillet and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes. This allows the orzo to absorb the liquid and become tender.

6. Stir in the Cheeses
   After the orzo is tender, it’s time to make it cheesy! Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until everything is melted and creamy.

7. Preheat and Bake
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer your casserole to the oven, sprinkle with any remaining mozzarella, and bake for 10-15 minutes. You want it to be bubbly and golden on top.

8. Let It Rest and Serve
   Once baked, let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up a bit and makes it easier to serve. If you’d like, you can garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor!

How to Serve French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Serving French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is easy and enjoyable! This dish is wonderful on its own but can also pair nicely with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. You can serve it hot, right out of the oven. For an additional touch, sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme before serving to enhance the presentation and flavor. Guests can enjoy this casserole straight from the skillet for a warm and homely feel.

How to Store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

If you have leftovers or want to make this dish ahead of time, it stores well. Allow the casserole to cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. To freeze, wrap the cooled casserole tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Tips to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your casserole turns out amazing:

• Caramelize the Onions Well: Take your time to caramelize the onions properly. The deeper the color, the more flavor they will add to your dish.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For convenience, rotisserie chicken is perfect because it’s already cooked. This saves time and adds great flavor.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can use half and half instead of heavy cream. This option still keeps the dish creamy without being as rich.
• Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella and Parmesan are delicious, feel free to mix it up. Adding cheddar, gouda, or even a bit of blue cheese can give new flavors.
• Add More Vegetables: For extra nutrition, consider adding vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the casserole.

Variation (if any)

You can easily customize this casserole to suit your tastes. Here are some variations you might consider:

• Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.
• Different Pasta: If you can’t find orzo, you can use small pasta shapes like couscous or small shells instead.
• Herb Changes: Try using fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a stronger flavor. Fresh thyme, parsley, or sage can enhance this dish beautifully.

FAQs

Can I make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time! Follow the cooking steps, but don’t bake it. Just cover it and store it in the fridge for a day. You can bake it just before serving.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! After cooking, let it cool down, then cover tightly and freeze. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven or microwave.

Is this dish gluten-free?

No, this dish contains orzo pasta, which is made from wheat. However, you can substitute it with gluten-free pasta to make a gluten-free version.

Enjoy making and sharing this delightful French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole! It’s bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.