French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. It combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and the sweet flavor of caramelized onions. This casserole is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Why This French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Is Great
This dish is simple and satisfying. You only need a few ingredients, and it comes together quickly. It’s creamy, golden, and rich in flavor, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken. On busy nights, this recipe will become your go-to meal.
How to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Making this casserole is easy and fun. You start by caramelizing onions, which adds a sweet and savory touch. Then, you mix everything in one pot, making clean-up a breeze. Finally, you bake it until bubbly and golden. It’s a simple process that results in a delicious meal.
What You Need
- 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)
Step-by-Step
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, allowing it to lightly toast. Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire if using. Mix well.
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.
Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
Bake the Casserole: Preheat the 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 Serve French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some garlic bread. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a wholesome meal. For a cozy touch, sprinkle some extra cheese or fresh herbs on top just before serving.
How to Store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
To keep leftovers fresh, store the casserole in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, make sure it’s cooled completely, then wrap it tightly. It should be good for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Recipe Tips
- Watch the onions: Stir them often to avoid burning.
- Don’t skip the sugar: It really helps enhance the onion’s sweetness.
- For quicker prep: Use store-bought rotisserie chicken.
- Adjust the cream: Use half and half for a lighter option.
- Try different cheeses: Mix in cheddar or gouda for a twist.
Variations & Swaps
- Vegetarian option: Swap chicken for mushrooms or beans.
- Add spices: Include a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.
- Theme it up: Add some cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day earlier and bake it the next day.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm. Sprinkle a little water to keep it moist.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, it freezes well. Make sure to let it cool before wrapping and freezing.
What else can I serve with this dish?
This casserole goes well with a side salad or roasted veggies.
What if I overcook the onions?
If they burn, it may give a bitter taste. Keep an eye on them and stir frequently.
French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Ingredients
For the onions
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon sugar enhances sweetness
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) added towards the end of caramelization
Main ingredients
- 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
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (optional for added depth)
Instructions
Preparation
- 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.
Mixing Ingredients
- 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.
Cooking
- 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.
Adding Cheese & Baking
- Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
- Preheat the 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.
Serving
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
