French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

why make this recipe

This dish mixes rich caramelized onions, tender chicken, and creamy orzo. It cooks in one pan and gives deep, warm flavors like French onion soup but in a bake. It is easy to make for weeknights or small gatherings.

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introduction

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole turns simple pantry ingredients into a cozy meal. The long-cooked onions add sweet, savory flavor. Use rotisserie chicken to save time. If you like casseroles with cheesy tops, this one is for you. Try a different chicken bake like Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole for another easy family meal.

how to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

1. Caramelize onions slowly in butter and oil until very brown.
2. Toast the orzo a bit, then add shredded cooked chicken and seasonings.
3. Add chicken broth and cream, simmer covered until orzo is tender.
4. Stir in most of the cheese to make it creamy.
5. Top with more cheese and bake until bubbly and golden.
6. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.

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 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 shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire 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 mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
5. 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.
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 warm straight from the oven. This casserole goes well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For crusty bread, offer slices to soak up the creamy sauce. If you want another cheesy chicken bake idea, try Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole.

how to store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

• Cool the casserole to room temperature.
• Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
• To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or microwave single servings.

tips to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

• Take time to caramelize the onions well. The deep flavor matters.
• Use rotisserie chicken to cut prep time.
• If the mixture gets too thick while cooking, add a splash more broth or cream.
• Stir the orzo a few times while it cooks so it doesn’t stick.
• Use half and half for a lighter dish. For richer flavor, use heavy cream.

variation (if any)

• Add mushrooms when you cook the onions for extra earthiness.
• Swap mozzarella for Gruyère for a more classic French onion flavor.
• Make it vegetarian: replace chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth.

FAQs

Q: Can I use dried onions instead of fresh?
A: Fresh onions give the best flavor. Dried onions won’t caramelize the same, so fresh is recommended.

Q: Can I make this ahead and bake later?
A: Yes. Cook through the step before baking, cool, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready and add extra time from chilled.

Q: Is orzo the only pasta I can use?
A: Short pastas like small shells or acini di pepe work, but orzo cooks quickly and gives the right texture.

Q: Can I skip the cream?
A: You can use all broth, but the dish will be less creamy. A splash of milk or half and half helps keep creaminess.

Q: How do I make it less salty?
A: Use low-sodium broth and taste before adding extra salt.

Conclusion

For another take on this recipe and full photo steps, see French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole – The Fervent Mama. If you want a slow-cooker version, check out Crockpot Creamy French Onion Chicken and Orzo. – Half Baked …

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