French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic French onion soup, capturing all those warm, caramelized flavors in a comforting casserole that the whole family will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, bringing the deliciousness of French onion soup right to your dinner table in a more substantial form. Picture tender orzo pasta, juicy shredded chicken, and gooey cheese melded together to create a dish that’s as satisfying as a big hug!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

When it comes to comfort food, this casserole checks all the boxes. Quick to throw together, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults, this dish can easily become a weeknight staple. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a rich and hearty meal ready in no time.

“This casserole made our family dinner a hit! The kids couldn’t get enough, and I loved how easy it was to prepare.” — Happy Home Cook

Preparing French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

This dish is all about layering flavors, starting with beautifully caramelized onions and blending them with orzo and chicken for a comforting meal that’s sure to please. You can expect a creamy, cheesy texture that’s simply irresistible!

What You’ll Need

Gather these items:

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

If you’re in a pinch, rotisserie chicken works wonders for this recipe!

Directions to Follow

1. 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. Stir in the orzo and let it cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Next, add the shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix well.

3. Add the chicken broth and cream to the mixture. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.

4. Stir in 1 cup of the mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.

5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

6. Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This casserole pairs incredibly well with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce—perfect for dunking! A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top not only enhances the flavor but adds a lovely pop of color.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? No problem! You can store any uneaten casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave in short bursts for convenience. This dish also freezes beautifully—just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe dish. It can last in the freezer for up to three months.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• To save time, consider using pre-sliced onions or even frozen diced onions.
• For an extra depth of flavor, let the onions caramelize longer—this enhances their sweetness!
• If you prefer a healthier version, you can substitute half and half for the heavy cream, or use whole wheat orzo.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to mix things up! You could add some sautéed mushrooms for an Earthy touch, swap out the chicken for shredded turkey, or even go vegetarian by omitting the meat entirely and adding more veggies like spinach or bell peppers. A sprinkle of crispy bacon on top before serving? Yes, please!

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is about 10 minutes, while cooking takes around 30–40 minutes, making it a great option for a weekday dinner.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just replace the orzo with a gluten-free pasta variety. Be sure to check the chicken broth and other ingredients as well.

How do I ensure the orzo is cooked just right?
Keep an eye on the cooking time and stir occasionally while simmering. The orzo should be al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a warm and welcoming hug in a dish, bringing family and friends together over comforting flavors.

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