French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

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French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish brimming with flavor. With the sweet, rich taste of caramelized onions mixed with tender orzo and juicy chicken, this casserole is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a weeknight gathering. The cheesy goodness adds a layer of indulgence that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

How to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

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:

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. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes.
2. Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Add the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix well.
3. Pour in Liquids: Add the 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.
4. Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
5. Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
6. Serve: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

How to Serve French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Serve the casserole warm right out of the oven. A simple side salad or some crusty bread works great alongside this dish. You can also add extra cheese on top before serving for cheese lovers!

How to Store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cover it well to avoid freezer burns.

Tips to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

• Stir the onions regularly to prevent burning while caramelizing. Low heat helps achieve a rich flavor.
• You can substitute the chicken with turkey or leave it out for a vegetarian option.
• Try adding some fresh herbs like rosemary or basil for added flavor.

Variation

For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
   Yes! You can use any small pasta shape like macaroni or ditalini, but cooking times may vary.

2. Is this dish freezer-friendly?
   Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool down, then store in an airtight container.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare it completely, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just bake it for a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

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