Name: French Onion Chicken Orzo Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon sugar; ½ teaspoon salt; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ½ cups orzo pasta; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken ((rotisserie works well)); ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream or half and half ((for a lighter option)); 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze ((for added depth))

Step-by-step instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps for a perfect French Onion Chicken Orzo Bake:

In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
Add the thinly sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are beautifully caramelized.
During the last 1–2 minutes, stir in the minced garlic to enhance the flavor.
Add the orzo pasta and toast it lightly for 2 minutes.
Stir in the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze, mixing everything thoroughly.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream (or half and half) and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Mix in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan until melted and creamy.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes or until the top is bubbly, golden, and slightly crisp.
Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, if desired.

Best ways to enjoy it

Serving this French Onion Chicken Orzo Bake can be as creative as you like. Pair it with a fresh garden salad and a crusty baguette to soak up every bit of that delicious cheesy sauce. A glass of white wine complements the dish wonderfully, making it a great choice for dinner parties or casual weeknight dinners.

How to store

Got leftovers? Store them safely! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze it (without the baked cheese topping) for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it in the oven until warmed through, adding a bit more cheese before baking for a perfect topping.

Helpful cooking tips

To ensure the best results, here are a few tips:

Patience is key when caramelizing the onions—don’t rush the process for the best flavor.
Using a mix of olive oil and butter not only enhances the flavor but also helps prevent the butter from burning during cooking.
If you want an extra crunchy top, you can add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs mixed with a bit more cheese before baking.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations you could try:

Swap out the orzo for another pasta like farfalle or fusilli.
Add vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
For a gluten-free option, replace orzo with gluten-free pasta or cauliflower rice.

Common questions

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and cooking takes roughly 30 minutes. So, you can have dinner ready in under an hour!

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Absolutely! Shredded turkey or even cooked sausage can be great alternatives to shredded chicken.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can substitute half and half for heavy cream and use fewer cheese toppings to reduce the overall calories.

Enjoy your culinary adventure with this French Onion Chicken Orzo Bake! It’s bound to become a favorite in your household.