French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Ever had a dish that wraps you up in a warm hug? Meet your new favorite: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole! This dish is a delightful blend of flavors, and it’s oh-so-creamy and comforting — perfect for a cozy night in. With minimal fuss and just one pan, it delivers that rich, nostalgic taste of French onion soup but in a whole new, mouthwatering way.
Why Make This Recipe
Why will this casserole win your heart?
- One-pan wonder: Less clean-up means more time for Netflix. Who doesn’t love that?
- Budget-friendly: Using shredded rotisserie chicken adds flavor without busting your wallet. And let’s be real—less cooking means more time for snacks! 😉
- Family-approved: Kids and adults alike will dive in for seconds. It’s a meal you can confidently serve your entire crew.
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 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
Let’s get cookin’! Follow these steps for your masterpiece:
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, letting it lightly toast. Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire if using. Mix well.
Pour in Liquids: Add 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 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.
How to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole (Overview)
Ready for the breakdown? This is a simple process that packs a delicious punch.
- Start by caramelizing the onions until they’re sweet and golden. Tip: Stir gently, and don’t rush it. This step is what adds that signature flavor!
- Mix in the orzo, chicken, and spices to embrace those cozy vibes.
- Pour in the broth and cream, stir it all together, then let the magic happen on the stove.
- Finally, top with a generous layer of cheese and bake for that glorious, melty finish. Don’t skip the cheese; it seals the deal!
How to Serve French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Serve this casserole hot, straight from the oven. Picture it: golden, cheesy top with textural bites of tender orzo mixed with savory chicken.
- Serve with a crisp green salad for contrast.
- Add a slice of crusty French bread to soak up any goodness lingering on your plate. 🍞
- The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it impossible not to dig in right away!
How to Store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Not finishing the whole dish in one sitting? No worries!
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Can be frozen for about 3 months.
- Reheating: Microwave or bake until heated through. Add a splash of cream if it seems dry—no one likes a sad leftover!
Tips to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
- Timing is key: Caramelize your onions slowly for maximum flavor.
- Ingredient swaps: Use leftover turkey or veggie broth for a lighter option.
- If you want a bit of crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with cheese on top before baking.
Variation
Feel like mixing it up? Try these ideas:
- Greek twist: Add spinach and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.
- Vegan version:Swap chicken with roasted chickpeas and use plant-based cream for a lighter take.
- Spice it up: A pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes can give it a kick.
FAQs
Can I use uncooked chicken instead of rotisserie?
Sure! Just cook it thoroughly before adding it to the orzo.
How do I make this ahead of time?
You can prep everything up to the baking step and store it in the fridge. Bake when you’re ready to eat!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw completely before reheating.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- 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.
- Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, letting it lightly toast.
- Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire if using. Mix well.
- Add 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.
- Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
- 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.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
