I share a warm, rich dish that you can make fast. This meal uses sweet cooked onions, small pasta, and cooked chicken. The dish feels like comfort food. It haS a soft, creamy inside and a light brown top. Try a similar casserole if you want more ideas.
why make this recipe
You will make this if you want a meal that fills you and takes less work. You get deep onion taste from slow cooking. The orzo soaks up the sauce and keeps the food soft. You can use cooked chicken from the store and still make a home meal. If you like baked comfort food, try a French style bake for more ideas.
how to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Start by cooking the onions slowly until they turn dark and sweet. Toast the orzo a bit for more taste. Add cooked chicken and herbs, then pour in broth and cream. Let the orzo cook in the pan until it is soft. Stir in cheese until it melts. Top with more cheese and bake until the top turns golden.
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 a lighter option)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze
You can look at other chicken casserole ideas to plan a side.
Directions :
- 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 now and then, until the onions are deep gold and soft. Stir in the minced garlic in the last 1–2 minutes.
- Add orzo and chicken. Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, letting it lightly toast. Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire if you use it. Mix well.
- Pour in the liquids. Add the chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Turn heat to low, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring now and then, until the orzo is tender.
- Add cheese. Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the mix looks creamy.
- Bake the casserole. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the last 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until the top bubbles and turns light gold.
- Serve. Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before you serve. Add fresh thyme or parsley if you like.
how to serve French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Cut the bake into portions and place on warm plates. Add a fresh green salad or steamed veg on the side. You can serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A plain side like rice or simple greens will work too. Try to serve warm. For more side ideas, see this serve with salad note.
how to store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
Let the bake cool to room heat. Put in an airtight box and place in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, cool well, wrap tight, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and heat in the oven at 350°F until hot. You can also heat single parts in the microwave for 2–3 minutes.
tips to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole
- Cook the onions slow and low for real sweet taste.
- Use cooked chicken to save time.
- If the mix looks dry while cooking, add a bit more broth.
- Stir often when the orzo cooks so it cooks even.
- Use part-skim cream to cut fat but keep the mix creamy.
For more easy tips, read these easy tricks.
variation (if any)
- Make it lighter: use half and half or milk and less cheese.
- Add mushrooms or spinach for more veg.
- Use turkey or cooked pork instead of chicken.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire or balsamic to deepen the taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use dry chicken instead of rotisserie?
A: Yes. Use cooked, shredded chicken. Add a bit more broth if it feels dry.
Q: Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Brown the onions on the stove, then add all to the slow cooker. Cook on low until the orzo is soft. Check liquid levels.
Q: Can I use another pasta?
A: Yes. Small pasta like ditalini works. Time may change, so watch the pasta so it does not get too soft.
Q: Do I need to bake it?
A: The bake makes a gold top and sets the dish. You can skip the oven and serve it soft and creamy from the stove.
Q: Can I make this for a meal plan?
A: Yes. It stores well for up to 3 days in the fridge and freezes for longer.
Conclusion
For another version, see the full guide at French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole – The Fervent Mama. If you want a slow cooker take, try the Crockpot Creamy French Onion Chicken and Orzo.
