Name: French Onion Chicken Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (optional)

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French Onion Chicken Orzo is a delightful twist on the classic French onion soup, combining tender orzo pasta with richly caramelized onions, succulent chicken, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. The moment this dish bakes in the oven, your kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma that can lure anyone to the dinner table. This creamy orzo is thick and comforting, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something heartwarming and delicious.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
French Onion Chicken Orzo

The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its flavors but also in its simplicity. With just one pot and minimal prep, you can serve up a gourmet meal without the fuss. It’s also budget-friendly, making it a real win for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: This comforting meal comes together in just about an hour, with only 10 minutes of active prep time!
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet, earthy taste of caramelized onions mixed with chicken and creamy cheese will have your taste buds cheering.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Topped with bubbling, golden cheese, this dish looks as good as it tastes.
Flexible Serving: Great for cozy dinners, but also a hit for potlucks or make-ahead meals.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adapted for your dietary needs—just swap in gluten-free orzo or dairy-free cheeses.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor; can substitute with more olive oil for a dairy-free option.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Enhances the sautéing process; choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced: The star of the dish; their natural sugars caramelize beautifully. You can use sweet onions like Vidalia for a sweeter taste.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; use fresh garlic for the most impact.
1 teaspoon granulated sugar: Accelerates the caramelization of onions; optional, but worth adding.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances flavors; feel free to adjust according to taste.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Compliments the dish with an earthy taste; fresh thyme can be used for a more vibrant flavor.
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Provides subtle heat; adjust to your preference.
1 1/2 cups orzo pasta: This small, rice-shaped pasta absorbs the creamy sauce; substitute with other small pasta if needed.
2 cups cooked shredded chicken: A great way to use leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken; ensures the dish is hearty.
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and flavorful; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luxurious, creamy consistency; half-and-half can be substituted for a lighter option.
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey texture; feel free to mix with cheddar for different flavors.
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty kick; skip if you’re hoping for a dairy-free version.
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (optional): Adds depth of flavor; balsamic glaze gives a touch of sweetness.

How to Make French Onion Chicken Orzo

Melt the Butters: In a large oven-safe skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. This combination ensures a savory base.

Caramelize the Onions: Add the 2 large yellow onions, 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20 to 25 minutes until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Just before they finish, stir in the 3 minced garlic cloves for the last 2 minutes to make them fragrant.

Toast the Orzo: Incorporate 1 1/2 cups of orzo pasta into the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to lightly toast it, which enhances its flavor and texture.

Combine Ingredients: Mix in the 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken, 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and if desired, 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze. Stir everything together until evenly combined.

Simmer the Mixture: Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the orzo cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a tender texture.

Melt the Cheeses: After the orzo is tender, reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and all 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until they melt and the sauce becomes creamy. This is the moment when your kitchen starts to smell utterly divine.

Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of your orzo mix. Bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and turns a beautiful golden brown.

Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This helps intensify the flavors. If you like, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover French Onion Chicken Orzo, allow it to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven for about 20 minutes at 350°F or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring midway through. Remember, the texture may change slightly upon reheating, so consider adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh it.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid burning the onions by stirring them frequently and cooking over medium heat—patience pays off!
Make sure your chicken is shredded evenly for better distribution in the dish.
For a firmer texture, you might reduce the simmering time slightly.
Feel free to mix and match cheeses to suit your taste—experiment with gouda or gruyere for a gourmet flair.
This dish can be made a day ahead and baked right before serving for ultimate convenience.

There’s something special about French Onion Chicken Orzo that makes it a standout dish. Not only does it bring comfort and flavor to the table, but it’s also a canvas inviting your culinary creativity. Experiment with herbs, cheese, or even veggies to make this recipe your own.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken instead of cooked chicken?

Absolutely! If using uncooked chicken, simply chop it into small pieces and add it to the skillet after caramelizing the onions. Cook it until it’s no longer pink, and then follow the rest of the recipe as instructed.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, feel free to experiment with your favorites. Cheddar or gouda can add a nice twist, or include a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor.

Is French Onion Chicken Orzo suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep. Prepare it in advance and store portions in your fridge or freezer. Reheat for quick, satisfying meals throughout the week.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Certainly! To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or spinach, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Skip the chicken altogether and add some beans for protein.