French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole topped with melted cheese and herbs

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

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why make this recipe

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions with the comfort of chicken and creamy orzo. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or family gathering. The combination of cheese and savory broth makes it not only delicious but also satisfying. Plus, it is a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup afterward!

how to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

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 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)

Directions


  1. 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.



  2. 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.



  3. 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.



  4. Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.



  5. 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.



  6. 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

Serve this casserole warm straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple salad or roasted vegetables. For an extra touch, consider offering crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

how to store French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

Let the casserole cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep it moist.

tips to make French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

  • Stir the onions frequently to ensure even caramelization.
  • Feel free to use leftover chicken or even turkey for a different twist.
  • Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. You can add more herbs or spices if you like.

variation

You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. If you prefer a lighter dish, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like small shells or elbow macaroni, but be sure to adjust the cooking times.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving.

Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it! Make sure it is fully cooled, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat as needed.

French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole

A comforting one-pan meal that combines caramelized onions, tender chicken, creamy orzo, and a blend of cheeses for a deliciously satisfying dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Casserole, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort food
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 large yellow onions thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cloves garlic 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
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze (optional, for added depth)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 1–2 minutes.
Cooking
  1. Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast.
  2. Add shredded chicken, thyme, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix well.
  3. Add the chicken broth and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
  5. Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top.
  3. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Serving
  1. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Can be reheated gently with added broth or cream to keep it moist. Consider adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.