Cozy French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe

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French Onion Chicken Orzo is a delightful and cozy casserole inspired by the classic flavors of French onion soup. This dish brings together the comforting elements of tender chicken, creamy orzo, and sweet caramelized onions, topped off with melty cheese. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s a satisfying choice for any occasion. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Chicken Orzo

This French Onion Chicken Orzo Recipe is not only tasty but also incredibly easy to prepare. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

It’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze.
Perfect for busy weeknights or French Onion Chicken Orzo Meal Prep.
Offers a rich, creamy flavor that satisfies any craving.
Kid-friendly and great for family dinners.
Can be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
It’s naturally gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs.

Ingredients for French Onion Chicken Orzo

Gather these items:

1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
2½ cups chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss-style cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and brown chicken for 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, cook sliced onions over medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelized. Add garlic and thyme and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Spread uncooked orzo evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently. Add caramelized onions and mix well.
Step 4: Nestle browned chicken into the orzo mixture. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
Step 5: Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until orzo is tender, chicken is cooked through, and top is lightly golden.
Step 6: Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best French Onion Chicken Orzo

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead dinners.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
This dish can be frozen for later use.
For a Creamy French Onion Chicken Orzo, add more cream or cheese.

Best Ways to Serve French Onion Chicken Orzo

Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience:

Pair it with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Top with additional cheese and broil for a crispy finish.

Cozy French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole Recipe - French Onion Chicken Orzo - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat French Onion Chicken Orzo

To store, let the casserole cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For meal prep, this dish reheats beautifully; simply microwave until heated through or place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions About French Onion Chicken Orzo

What is French Onion Chicken Orzo?

French Onion Chicken Orzo is a comforting casserole that combines chicken, creamy orzo, and caramelized onions, inspired by French onion soup flavors.

Can I make French Onion Chicken Orzo ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for make-ahead meals. You can prepare it a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with French Onion Chicken Orzo?

To avoid mushy orzo, ensure you follow the cooking times and don’t overbake. Also, let it rest after baking for the best texture.

Variations of French Onion Chicken Orzo You Can Try

Feel free to customize your casserole:

Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Incorporate spinach or kale for a nutritional boost.
Swap chicken for turkey or a plant-based protein for a different twist.

For more delicious recipes, check out French Onion Potatoes or Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta.