French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Ah, let me take you on a delightful culinary journey! Sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and imagine your kitchen filled with the luscious aroma of caramelized onions mingling with rich broth and tender chicken. My French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole has become a beloved staple in my home for good reason—it’s comforting, cozy, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth on a chilly evening or makes a lively weeknight dinner feel extra special. Let me share the secrets behind this deliciousness with you.

Discover the Magic of This Casserole

You’re probably wondering, why should I make this recipe tonight? Picture this: each creamy spoonful cradles a flavorful mix of tender orzo, savory chicken, and sweet caramelized onions, all harmonizing under a gooey blanket of melted cheese. The crust that forms on top? It’s just icing on the cake (or casserole, in this case). This dish isn’t just about taste; it’s about bringing people together. The moment you lift a spoonful, you’re not just serving a meal; you’re sharing an experience that ignites conversation and warmth around the table.

Not to mention, this casserole comes together with minimal fuss. Perfect for those evenings when you want something heartwarming without spending hours in the kitchen. With rotisserie chicken and simple pantry staples, you can whip this up and transform an ordinary night into something extraordinary.

Gather These Ingredients

Let’s get our hands dirty! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: This adds a rich base, integral for caramelizing those onions.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps achieve that perfect sauté while lending a hint of depth.
• 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced): Trust me, the more deeply caramelized they are, the sweeter the balance that follows.
• 1 teaspoon sugar: A little secret weapon to coax the onions into glorious golden sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Always essential; it enhances all the flavors.
• 3 garlic cloves (minced): Because what’s a good dish without garlic? It’s the aromatic backbone.
• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta: These little pasta pearls soak up all that wonderful flavor and give a lovely texture.
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken makes this dish a breeze! You can also use leftover chicken or turkey.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: A fragrant herb that complements the onions beautifully.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A hint of heat to round out the flavors.
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: We want the right amount of liquid without overpowering the dish.
• 1 cup heavy cream: It adds that luscious richness—but if you want lighter, half-and-half works too.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Because cheese should never be optional.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This gives the dish an extra depth of flavor and a bit of a bite.
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze—both can enhance the umami for a deeper flavor profile.

The Cooking Process Explained

Are you ready to dive into the cooking? This is where the magic happens!

1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Let them cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply golden and aromatic. Trust me, stir in the minced garlic in the last couple of minutes—this is where the kitchen starts to feel like a warm haven.

2. Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir the orzo into the skillet and let it toast lightly for about 2 minutes. This short step creates a lovely nuttiness in the final dish. Toss in the shredded chicken along with thyme and pepper (and Worcestershire sauce if you’re feeling adventurous) for a wonderful blend of flavors.

3. Pour in Liquids: Now, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure those orzo pieces soak up all the goodness.

4. Add Cheese: Once the orzo is tender, stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is melted together into a creamy, cheesy delight.

5. Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the leftover mozzarella on top for that beautiful ooey-gooey finish. Bake it uncovered for 10–15 minutes, or until it’s bubbling and golden on top.

6. Serve: Give it a moment to rest for about 5-10 minutes—this step is crucial, as it allows the casserole to set a bit. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.

Best Way to Enjoy It

Now that your casserole is hot and bubbling! Serve it warm alongside a simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette to balance the richness. If you’re feeling indulgent, a slice of crusty French bread for dipping is a fine companion. This dish also works wonderfully as leftovers. Just imagine diving into the fridge and finding that cheesy goodness calling your name!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can stay in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to bring back some moisture, or you can microwave it in short intervals—just cover it to avoid drying out.

Thinking of freezing it? Absolutely! Just portion it out and store in freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well for about 2-3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Helpful Cooking Tips

A few pro tips from my kitchen to yours:

• Don’t rush the onions: Patience is key. The longer they cook, the sweeter and more flavorful they become.
• Toast the orzo: This extra step enhances the nuttiness and adds depth—believe me, it’s worth it!
• Experiment: Try swapping out the chicken for cooked sausage or add in any veggies you love—spinach or mushrooms would be incredible.

Creative Twists

Feel free to make this recipe your own!

• Cheese Variations: Swap out mozzarella for gouda or fontina for a different melting experience.
• Herbal Touch: Add fresh basil or parsley at the end for a pop of freshness.
• Vegan Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms and use a plant-based cream.

Ingredient Checklist

• 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 (or half and half)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze

Directions to Follow

1. In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring until golden.
3. Stir in minced garlic for the last 1-2 minutes.
4. Add orzo and toast for 2 minutes, stirring.
5. Incorporate shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire if using. Mix well.
6. Add chicken broth and cream. Simmer gently, covered, for 8-10 minutes.
7. Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted.
8. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Top with remaining mozzarella.
9. Bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
10. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish if desired.

Your Questions Answered

• How long does it take to make? Preface about 15 minutes prep time and about 40 minutes to cook and bake.
• Can I use uncooked chicken? Yes, but ensure it’s cubed small and increase cooking time accordingly.
• What to serve it with? A simple salad or some steamed green beans complement it nicely.
• Can I make it ahead? Absolutely! Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.
• Can I make it vegetarian? Definitely! Replace the chicken with hearty mushrooms or chickpeas for protein.

I hope you feel inspired to try this French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole! It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to bring warmth and camaraderie to your dinner table. Remember, every great dish tells a story, and I can’t wait to hear yours when you give it a go! You’ll find that nothing beats the satisfaction of creating something beautiful and delicious. Happy cooking!

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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Cooking Method: Baking, Sauteing Courses: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course Recipe Keys: C Casserole C Comfort Food Dairy High Protein Non Vegetarian

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 40 mins Rest Time 10 mins Total Time 1 hr 5 mins

Cooking Temp: 375  F Servings: 6 Estimated Cost: $ 15 Calories: 650

Best Season: Winter

Description

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo pasta for a heartwarming meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (For caramelizing the onions.)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (Adds depth to the sauté.)
• 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced) (Caramelized for sweetness.)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (To enhance onion caramelization.)
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt (Enhances flavors.)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced) (Aromatic backbone.)
• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups orzo pasta (Soaks up flavor.)
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (Rotisserie is easy option.)
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon dried thyme (Herb complementing the dish.)
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon black pepper (Adds a hint of heat.)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (Base liquid for the casserole.)
• 1 cup heavy cream (Adds richness.)
• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (For melting goodness.)
• ¹⁄₂ cup grated Parmesan cheese (Adds depth of flavor.)
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (Optional for flavor enhancement.)

Instructions

Cooking Steps

1. Caramelize the Onions

   In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring until golden.
   Add minced garlic for the last 1-2 minutes.
   Mark as complete

2. Add Orzo and Chicken

   Stir in orzo and toast lightly for 2 minutes. Add shredded chicken, thyme, and pepper.
   Feel free to add Worcestershire sauce if desired.
   Mark as complete

3. Pour in Liquids

   Add chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer gently, covered, for 8-10 minutes.
   Stir occasionally to ensure orzo soaks up the flavors.
   Mark as complete

4. Add Cheese

   Once the orzo is tender, stir in 1 cup mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted.
   Mark as complete

5. Bake the Casserole

   Preheat your oven to 375°F. Top with remaining mozzarella and bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
   Mark as complete

6. Serve

   Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish if desired.
   Great alongside a green salad or crusty bread.
   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 650kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 40g62%

Saturated Fat 22g111%

Cholesterol 135mg45%

Sodium 650mg28%

Potassium 500mg15%

Total Carbohydrate 40g14%

Dietary Fiber 2g8%

Sugars 2g

Protein 38g76%

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Vitamin A 700 IU

Vitamin C 5 mg

Calcium 430 mg

Iron 2 mg

Thiamin 0.4 mg

Riboflavin 0.6 mg

Niacin 4 mg

Vitamin B6 0.5 mg

Folate 80 mcg

Vitamin B12 1.5 mcg

Phosphorus 350 mg

Magnesium 30 mg

Zinc 3 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

This casserole makes for fantastic leftovers. Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge.

Keywords: casserole, chicken, orzo, french onion, comfort food