French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions with tender chicken and creamy orzo pasta. It’s a comforting dish that brings together all the things we love about French onion soup and makes it a hearty meal. This casserole is not only enjoyable but also easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

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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 to allow 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 this casserole hot right from the oven. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to enjoy the meal completely. A drizzle of balsamic glaze over each serving can add an extra layer of flavor.

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 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.

Tips to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

• For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth if you have it.
• When caramelizing the onions, be patient. The longer you cook them, the sweeter they become.
• If you want a crispier topping, you can broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking.

Variation

You can customize this casserole by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Swap the chicken for cooked sausage or use a vegetarian substitute to cater to different dietary preferences.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

2. Can I freeze French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for 2–3 months. Thaw it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

3. What other cheeses can I use?
Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or fontina for different flavors.

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